1st Sgt Elmer J. Burr
U.S. Army, Company I, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division

Background
Elmer J. Burr was born in Neenah, Wisconsin. He joined the U.S. Army in Menasha, Wisconsin. Assigned to the 32nd Infantry Division (32nd ID) "Red Arrow Division", 127th Infantry Regiment, Company I in New Guinea.

Wartime History
On December 24, 1942 during the Battle of Buna 1st Sgt Burr deliberately threw himself atop a Japanese grenade that landed near his company commander and was killed smothering the blast. For his actions, he earned the Medal of Honor, posthumously.

Medal of Honor
Burr earned the Medal of Honor, posthumously for his actions December 24, 1942.

Medal of Honor (December 24, 1942 posthumously) "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty. During an attack near Buna, New Guinea, on 24 December 1942, 1st Sgt. Burr saw an enemy grenade strike near his company commander. Instantly and with heroic self-sacrifice he threw himself upon it, smothering the explosion with his body. 1st Sgt. Burr thus gave his life in saving that of his commander."

Memorials
Burr was officially declared dead on December 25, 1942. Postwar, his remains were recovered and transported to the United States. He is buried at Oak Hill Cemetery in Neenah, WI in d Veteran’s Section, Lot 163.

References
Congressional Medal of Honor Society - Elmer J Burr (MOH citation)
FindAGrave - Elmer John Burr (photo, grave photo)

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