Lloyd Leslie Burke (September 29, 1924 – June 1, 1999) was a soldier in the United States Army during the Korean War.

He joined the United States Army and served two years during World War II with combat engineers in Italy.

When Chinese forces crossed the Yalu River, Burke managed to lead his platoon to safety.

As a result of his action, he was awarded the Silver Star, which was later upgraded to the Distinguished Service Cross,[1] and two Purple Hearts.

Burke aimed his M1 rifle at the trench line and shot at every Chinese soldier who rose to throw a grenade.

Burke went down the gully to Company G's position and told Sergeant Arthur Foster, the senior NCO, "Get'em ready to attack when I give you the signal!"

Burke then dragged the last functioning Browning model 1919 machine gun and three cans of ammunition back up the hill.

On top of the burial mound, he mounted the machine gun, set the screw to free traverse, and prepared his 250-round ammunition box.

As the Chinese retreated, Burke wrapped his field jacket around the Browning's hot barrel sleeve and tore the 31-pound weapon off its tripod.

Overall, he spent 35 years in the US Armed Forces, served as the Army's liaison officer to the United States Congress, and retired with the rank of full colonel in 1978.

[7] Colonel Burke's awards include: Rank and organization: First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company G, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division Place and date: Near Chong-dong, Korea, October 28, 1951 Entered service at: Stuttgart, Arkansas Born: September 29, 1924, Tichnor, Arkansas G.O.

Citation: 1st Lt. Burke, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy.

Dashing to an exposed vantage point he threw several grenades at the bunkers, then, returning for an Ml rifle and adapter, he made a lone assault, wiping out the position and killing the crew.

Closing on the center bunker he lobbed grenades through the opening and, with his pistol, killed 3 of its occupants attempting to surround him.

Ordering his men forward he charged the third emplacement, catching several grenades in midair and hurling them back at the enemy.

Inspired by his display of valor his men stormed forward, overran the hostile position, but were again pinned down by increased fire.

Although wounded, he ordered more ammunition, reloading and destroying 2 mortar emplacements and a machine gun position with his accurate fire.

Cradling the weapon in his arms he then led his men forward, killing some 25 more of the retreating enemy and securing the objective.