It's About Liberty: A Conservative Forum
Topics => Military News/Veterans => Topic started by: rustybayonet on January 18, 2014, 10:14:12 AM
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CG has been doing a great job on the Coast Guard Hero thread, but for those on this site not a veteran of the Coast Guard as he and I are - I think all service heroes should be recognized, especially those very few awarded this countries highest ....The Congressional Medal of Honor.
There a three design types of 'the Medal'.
One for the Army
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
One for the Navy / Marine Corp / Coast Guard
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
One for the Air Force
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-airforce.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-airforce.jpg.html)
Most 'medals' have been awarded posthumously, but those still living deserve our utmost respect IMO.
So lets start with those still living. With that I want to start with a gentleman I had the honor and pleasure of meeting and talking to at the Coast Guard Honor Guard Ball in 1997. At the time he was Commanding General of all of the service Honor Guards in Washington DC......
Retired General Thomas Foley;
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/240px-MoHFoleyRF.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/240px-MoHFoleyRF.jpg.html)
His citation;(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/RobertFoleyMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/RobertFoleyMOH.jpg.html)
FOLEY, ROBERT F.Rank: Captain : U.S. ArmyCompany: Company A, 2d BattalionDivision: 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division Born: 30 May 1941, Newton, Mass.Departed: No Entered Service At: Newton, Mass. Date of Issue: 05/01/1968 Place / Date: Near Quan Dau Tieng, Republic of Vietnam, 5 November 1966
Citation:For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Capt. Foley's company was ordered to extricate another company of the battalion. Moving through the dense jungle to aid the besieged unit, Company A encountered a strong enemy force occupying well concealed, defensive positions, and the company's leading element quickly sustained several casualties. Capt. Foley immediately ran forward to the scene of the most intense action to direct the company's efforts. Deploying 1 platoon on the flank, he led the other 2 platoons in an attack on the enemy in the face of intense fire. During this action both radio operators accompanying him were wounded. At grave risk to himself he defied the enemy's murderous fire, and helped the wounded operators to a position where they could receive medical care. As he moved forward again 1 of his machine gun crews was wounded. Seizing the weapon, he charged forward firing the machine gun, shouting orders and rallying his men, thus maintaining the momentum of the attack. Under increasingly heavy enemy fire he ordered his assistant to take cover and, alone, Capt. Foley continued to advance firing the machine gun until the wounded had been evacuated and the attack in this area could be resumed. When movement on the other flank was halted by the enemy's fanatical defense, Capt. Foley moved to personally direct this critical phase of the battle. Leading the renewed effort he was blown off his feet and wounded by an enemy grenade. Despite his painful wounds he refused medical aid and persevered in the forefront of the attack on the enemy redoubt. He led the assault on several enemy gun emplacements and, single-handedly, destroyed 3 such positions. His outstanding personal leadership under intense enemy fire during the fierce battle which lasted for several hours, inspired his men to heroic efforts and was instrumental in the ultimate success of the operation. Capt. Foley's magnificent courage, selfless concern for his men and professional skill reflect the utmost credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.
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I've never known anyone who earned the MOH.
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I've never known anyone who earned the MOH.
Me either, but I respect all of them. ::USA::
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Next recipient is John P. Baca
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/JBaca.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/JBaca.jpg.html)
BACA, JOHN P.Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. ArmyCompany: Company D, 1st BattalionDivision: 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry DivisionBorn: 10 January 1949, Providence, R.I.Entered Service At: Fort Ord, Calif. Date of Issue: 06/15/1971 Accredited To: CaliforniaPlace / Date: Phuoc Long Province, Republic of Vietnam, 10 February 1970
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. Baca, Company D, distinguished himself while serving on a recoilless rifle team during a night ambush mission A platoon from his company was sent to investigate the detonation of an automatic ambush device forward of his unit's main position and soon came under intense enemy fire from concealed positions along the trail. Hearing the heavy firing from the platoon position and realizing that his recoilless rifle team could assist the members of the besieged patrol, Sp4c. Baca led his team through the hail of enemy fire to a firing position within the patrol's defensive perimeter. As they prepared to engage the enemy, a fragmentation grenade was thrown into the midst of the patrol. Fully aware of the danger to his comrades, Sp4c. Baca unhesitatingly, and with complete disregard for his own safety, covered the grenade with his steel helmet and fell on it as the grenade exploded, thereby absorbing the lethal fragments and concussion with his body. His gallant action and total disregard for his personal well-being directly saved 8 men from certain serious injury or death. The extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by Sp4c. Baca, at the risk of his life, are in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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As kids we would play army games, flop on a grenade (usually a dirt clod) and save our mates like the hero in the movie, and thought any of us in real life wouldn't hesitate to do so if we faced it. Then we grow up. Not such an easy thing to do now is it? There is always a doubt in the mind how one would react under real duress, fearing to face the possibility and fearing to fail your buddies, which wins out? It's always awed me that people can make that choice, having had someone do that so you survive has to place a special burden on those who were thus saved. A lifetime could be spent repaying the act and the payment would still feel inadequate.
::USA::
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As kids we would play army games, flop on a grenade (usually a dirt clod) and save our mates like the hero in the movie, and thought any of us in real life wouldn't hesitate to do so if we faced it. Then we grow up. Not such an easy thing to do now is it? There is always a doubt in the mind how one would react under real duress, fearing to face the possibility and fearing to fail your buddies, which wins out? It's always awed me that people can make that choice, having had someone do that so you survive has to place a special burden on those who were thus saved. A lifetime could be spent repaying the act and the payment would still feel inadequate.
::USA::
I think as we mature, we'd find it much easier to fall on a grenade to save our buddies than when we were our 20s - 40s.
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As kids we would play army games, flop on a grenade (usually a dirt clod) and save our mates like the hero in the movie, and thought any of us in real life wouldn't hesitate to do so if we faced it. Then we grow up. Not such an easy thing to do now is it? There is always a doubt in the mind how one would react under real duress, fearing to face the possibility and fearing to fail your buddies, which wins out? It's always awed me that people can make that choice, having had someone do that so you survive has to place a special burden on those who were thus saved. A lifetime could be spent repaying the act and the payment would still feel inadequate.
::USA::
I think as we mature, we'd find it much easier to fall on a grenade to save our buddies than when we were our 20s - 40s.
There is that. Being an older goat now...I reckon if it came to it I would do pretty much what I have to in order save my nephews for example.
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MOH recipient #3
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/DonaldEBallard.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/DonaldEBallard.jpg.html)
The Citation;
BALLARD, DONALD E.Rank: Hospital Corpsman Second Class U.S. Navy: Company M, 3d BattalionDivision: 4th Marines, 3d Marine DivisionBorn: 5 December 1945, Kansas City, Mo.Departed: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: Kansas City, MOPlace / Date: Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, 16 May 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty while serving as a HC2c. with Company M, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces. During the afternoon hours, Company M was moving to join the remainder of the 3d Battalion in Quang Tri Province. After treating and evacuating 2 heat casualties, HC2c. Ballard was returning to his platoon from the evacuation landing zone when the company was ambushed by a North Vietnamese Army unit employing automatic weapons and mortars, and sustained numerous casualties. Observing a wounded marine, HC2c. Ballard unhesitatingly moved across the fire swept terrain to the injured man and swiftly rendered medical assistance to his comrade. HC2c. Ballard then directed 4 marines to carry the casualty to a position of relative safety. As the 4 men prepared to move the wounded marine, an enemy soldier suddenly left his concealed position and, after hurling a hand grenade which landed near the casualty, commenced firing upon the small group of men. Instantly shouting a warning to the marines, HC2c. Ballard fearlessly threw himself upon the lethal explosive device to protect his comrades from the deadly blast. When the grenade failed to detonate, he calmly arose from his dangerous position and resolutely continued his determined efforts in treating other marine casualties. HC2c. Ballard's heroic actions and selfless concern for the welfare of his companions served to inspire all who observed him and prevented possible injury or death to his fellow marines. His courage, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
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Corpsman have one of the toughest jobs in any outfit but their men usually love the heck out of em because they know they'll do whatever it takes to keep them alive. This fella had someone looking out for him, the Big Corpsman in the Sky!
::thumbsup:: ::USA::
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Medal of Honor recipient #4
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
Harvey C. Barnum, Col. USMC [ret]
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3225.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3225.jpg.html)
BARNUM, HARVEY C., JR.Rank: 1st Lieutenant: U.S. Marine Corps: Company H, 2d Battalion Division: 9th Marines, 3d Marine DivisionBorn: 21 July 1940, Cheshire, Conn. Entered Service At: Cheshire, Conn.: Date of Issue: 02/27/1967Accredited To: Place / Date: Ky Phu in Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam, 18 December 1965
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. When the company was suddenly pinned down by a hail of extremely accurate enemy fire and was quickly separated from the remainder of the battalion by over 500 meters of open and fire-swept ground, and casualties mounted rapidly. Lt. Barnum quickly made a hazardous reconnaissance of the area, seeking targets for his artillery. Finding the rifle company commander mortally wounded and the radio operator killed, he, with complete disregard for his safety, gave aid to the dying commander, then removed the radio from the dead operator and strapped it to himself. He immediately assumed command of the rifle company, and moving at once into the midst of the heavy fire, rallying and giving encouragement to all units, reorganized them to replace the loss of key personnel and led their attack on enemy positions from which deadly fire continued to come. His sound and swift decisions and his obvious calm served to stabilize the badly decimated units and his gallant example as he stood exposed repeatedly to point out targets served as an inspiration to all. Provided with 2 armed helicopters, he moved fearlessly through enemy fire to control the air attack against the firmly entrenched enemy while skillfully directing 1 platoon in a successful counterattack on the key enemy positions. Having thus cleared a small area, he requested and directed the landing of 2 transport helicopters for the evacuation of the dead and wounded. He then assisted in the mopping up and final seizure of the battalion's objective. His gallant initiative and heroic conduct reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service.
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That's the way to take charge and turn a situation around! ::cool:: ::USA::
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#5 Our next recipient;
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3226.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3226.jpg.html)
BEIKIRCH, GARY B.Rank: Sergeant: U.S. Army: Company BDivision: 5th Special Forces Group, 1st Special ForcesBorn: 29 August 1947, Rochester, N.Y.Entered Service At: Buffalo, N.Y.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/15/1973Accredited To: Buffalo, NYPlace / Date: Kontum Province, Republic of Vietnam, 1 April 1970
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Beikirch, medical aidman, Detachment B-24, Company B, distinguished himself during the defense of Camp Dak Seang. The allied defenders suffered a number of casualties as a result of an intense, devastating attack launched by the enemy from well-concealed positions surrounding the camp. Sgt. Beikirch, with complete disregard for his personal safety, moved unhesitatingly through the withering enemy fire to his fallen comrades, applied first aid to their wounds and assisted them to the medical aid station. When informed that a seriously injured American officer was lying in an exposed position, Sgt. Beikirch ran immediately through the hail of fire. Although he was wounded seriously by fragments from an exploding enemy mortar shell, Sgt. Beikirch carried the officer to a medical aid station. Ignoring his own serious injuries, Sgt. Beikirch left the relative safety of the medical bunker to search for and evacuate other men who had been injured. He was again wounded as he dragged a critically injured Vietnamese soldier to the medical bunker while simultaneously applying mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to sustain his life. Sgt. Beikirch again refused treatment and continued his search for other casualties until he collapsed. Only then did he permit himself to be treated. Sgt. Beikirch's complete devotion to the welfare of his comrades, at the risk of his life are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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People with no quit in them that keep going back into the fray fill me with awe.
::USA::
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Recipient #6
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3236.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3236.jpg.html)
BRADY, PATRICK HENRY Rank: Major: U.S. Army Company: 54th Medical Detachment Division: 67th Medical Group, 44th Medical Brigade Born: 1 October 1936, Philip, S. Dak.Entered Service At: Seattle, Wash.: Date of Issue: 10/09/1969Accredited To: Seattle, WAPlace / Date: Near Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam, 6 January 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty, Maj. Brady distinguished himself while serving in the Republic of Vietnam commanding a UH-1H ambulance helicopter, volunteered to rescue wounded men from a site in enemy held territory which was reported to be heavily defended and to be blanketed by fog. To reach the site he descended through heavy fog and smoke and hovered slowly along a valley trail, turning his ship sideward to blow away the fog with the backwash from his rotor blades. Despite the unchallenged, close-range enemy fire, he found the dangerously small site, where he successfully landed and evacuated 2 badly wounded South Vietnamese soldiers. He was then called to another area completely covered by dense fog where American casualties lay only 50 meters from the enemy. Two aircraft had previously been shot down and others had made unsuccessful attempts to reach this site earlier in the day. With unmatched skill and extraordinary courage, Maj. Brady made 4 flights to this embattled landing zone and successfully rescued all the wounded. On his third mission of the day Maj. Brady once again landed at a site surrounded by the enemy. The friendly ground force, pinned down by enemy fire, had been unable to reach and secure the landing zone. Although his aircraft had been badly damaged and his controls partially shot away during his initial entry into this area, he returned minutes later and rescued the remaining injured. Shortly thereafter, obtaining a replacement aircraft, Maj. Brady was requested to land in an enemy minefield where a platoon of American soldiers was trapped. A mine detonated near his helicopter, wounding 2 crewmembers and damaging his ship. In spite of this, he managed to fly 6 severely injured patients to medical aid. Throughout that day Maj. Brady utilized 3 helicopters to evacuate a total of 51 seriously wounded men, many of whom would have perished without prompt medical treatment. Maj. Brady's bravery was in the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.
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Aye, there's a brave angel of mercy! ::USA::
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I was able to meet a couple of Medal of Honor recipients. One was my first sergeant when I went to basic training. He was the nicest mild mannered man. He actually was proud to meet me and my two other brothers. We went though basic training and AIT at the same time. He thought it amazing to see siblings enlisting at the same time. You would have never guessed that he was a recipient. Just found out that he passed away in 2010.
The other one I briefly met while working for a command group. He was the Personal Aid to a General.
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Never have met any recipeint myself, but unless in dress uni's you probably wouldn't know any major awardees unless someone pointed them out or you personally knew them. And that's just living recipients. Meeting one would be an honor.
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Recipient #7
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3239.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3239.jpg.html)
BUCHA, PAUL WILLIAM Rank: Captain: U.S. Army: Company D, 3d BattalionDivision: 187th Infantry, 3d Brigade, 101st Airborne DivisionBorn: 1 August 1943, Washington, D.C. Entered Service At: U.S. Military Academy, West Point, N.Y.: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: New YorkPlace / Date: Near Phuoc Vinh, Binh Duong Province, Republic of Vietnam, 16- 19 March 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Capt. Bucha distinguished himself while serving as commanding officer, Company D, on a reconnaissance-in-force mission against enemy forces near Phuoc Vinh, The company was inserted by helicopter into the suspected enemy stronghold to locate and destroy the enemy. During this period Capt. Bucha aggressively and courageously led his men in the destruction of enemy fortifications and base areas and eliminated scattered resistance impeding the advance of the company. On 18 March while advancing to contact, the lead elements of the company became engaged by the heavy automatic weapon, heavy machine gun, rocket propelled grenade, Claymore mine and small-arms fire of an estimated battalion-size force. Capt. Bucha, with complete disregard for his safety, moved to the threatened area to direct the defense and ordered reinforcements to the aid of the lead element. Seeing that his men were pinned down by heavy machine gun fire from a concealed bunker located some 40 meters to the front of the positions, Capt. Bucha crawled through the hail of fire to single-handedly destroy the bunker with grenades. During this heroic action Capt. Bucha received a painful shrapnel wound. Returning to the perimeter, he observed that his unit could not hold its positions and repel the human wave assaults launched by the determined enemy. Capt. Bucha ordered the withdrawal of the unit elements and covered the withdrawal to positions of a company perimeter from which he could direct fire upon the charging enemy. When 1 friendly element retrieving casualties was ambushed and cut off from the perimeter, Capt. Bucha ordered them to feign death and he directed artillery fire around them. During the night Capt. Bucha moved throughout the position, distributing ammunition, providing encouragement and insuring the integrity of the defense. He directed artillery, helicopter gunship and Air Force gunship fire on the enemy strong points and attacking forces, marking the positions with smoke grenades. Using flashlights in complete view of enemy snipers, he directed the medical evacuation of 3 air-ambulance loads of seriously wounded personnel and the helicopter supply of his company. At daybreak Capt. Bucha led a rescue party to recover the dead and wounded members of the ambushed element. During the period of intensive combat, Capt. Bucha, by his extraordinary heroism, inspirational example, outstanding leadership and professional competence, led his company in the decimation of a superior enemy force which left 156 dead on the battlefield. His bravery and gallantry at the risk of his life are in the highest traditions of the military service, Capt. Bucha has reflected great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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Reads like an Audie Murphy scene, doesn't it?
::USA::
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Recipient #8
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3091.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3091.jpg.html)
CAFFERATA, HECTOR A., JR.Rank: Private: U.S. Marine Corps: Company FDivision: 7th Marines, 1st Marine DivisionBorn: 4 November 1929, New York, N.Y. Entered Service At: Dover, N.J.: Date of Issue: 11/24/1950 Accredited To: New JerseyPlace / Date: Korea, 28 November 1950
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company F, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When all the other members of his fire team became casualties, creating a gap in the lines, during the initial phase of a vicious attack launched by a fanatical enemy of regimental strength against his company's hill position, Pvt. Cafferata waged a lone battle with grenades and rifle fire as the attack gained momentum and the enemy threatened penetration through the gap and endangered the integrity of the entire defensive perimeter. Making a target of himself under the devastating fire from automatic weapons, rifles, grenades, and mortars, he maneuvered up and down the line and delivered accurate and effective fire against the onrushing force, killing 15, wounding many more, and forcing the others to withdraw so that reinforcements could move up and consolidate the position. Again fighting desperately against a renewed onslaught later that same morning when a hostile grenade landed in a shallow entrenchment occupied by wounded marines, Pvt. Cafferata rushed into the gully under heavy fire, seized the deadly missile in his right hand and hurled it free of his comrades before it detonated, severing part of 1 finger and seriously wounding him in the right hand and arm. Courageously ignoring the intense pain, he staunchly fought on until he was struck by a sniper's bullet and forced to submit to evacuation for medical treatment Stouthearted and indomitable, Pvt. Cafferata, by his fortitude, great personal valor, and dauntless perseverance in the face of almost certain death, saved the lives of several of his fellow marines and contributed essentially to the success achieved by his company in maintaining its defensive position against tremendous odds. His extraordinary heroism throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
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Great reads, Rusty. Thanks for sharing. ::USA::
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Great reads, Rusty. Thanks for sharing. ::USA::
My pleasure
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Recipient #9
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/Cater_zps5618bdea.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/Cater_zps5618bdea.jpg.html)
CARTER, TY M.Rank: Specialist: U.S. Army Company B : Troop, 3d Squadron: 61st Cavalry Regiment Born: January 25, 1980, Spokane, WA: Entered Service At: Antioch,: Date of Issue: 08/26/2013Accredited To: Place / Date: Oct, 3, 2009, Outpost Keating, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty:Specialist Ty M. Carter distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Scout with Bravo Troop, 3d Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during combat operations against an armed enemy in Kamdesh District, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan on October 3, 2009. On that morning, Specialist Carter and his comrades awakened to an attack of an estimated 300 enemy fighters occupying the high ground on all four sides of Combat Outpost Keating, employing concentrated fire from recoilless rifles, rocket propelled grenades, anti-aircraft machine guns, mortars and small arms fire. Specialist Carter reinforced a forward battle position, ran twice through a 100 meter gauntlet of enemy fire to resupply ammunition and voluntarily remained there to defend the isolated position. Armed with only an M4 carbine rifle, Specialist Carter placed accurate, deadly fire on the enemy, beating back the assault force and preventing the position from being overrun, over the course of several hours. With complete disregard for his own safety and in spite of his own wounds, he ran through a hail of enemy rocket propelled grenade and machine gun fire to rescue a critically wounded comrade who had been pinned down in an exposed position. Specialist Carter rendered life extending first aid and carried the Soldier to cover. On his own initiative, Specialist Carter again maneuvered through enemy fire to check on a fallen Soldier and recovered the squad's radio, which allowed them to coordinate their evacuation with fellow Soldiers. With teammates providing covering fire, Specialist Carter assisted in moving the wounded Soldier 100 meters through withering enemy fire to the aid station and before returning to the fight. Specialist Carter's heroic actions and tactical skill were critical to the defense of Combat Outpost Keating, preventing the enemy from capturing the position and saving the lives of his fellow Soldiers. Specialist Ty M. Carter's extraordinary heroism and selflessness above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Bravo Troop, 3d Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division and the United States Army
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Not to denigrate ANY of these men, but it should be noted that these men were noticed and written up and submitted and received the recognition they deserved. There are thousands of others who also served and died bravely, not just random dead, but just as truly brave, who went unnoticed. My son, a true hero, was awarded the Bronze Star, with the combat V...for valor under fire, by the Marine Corps. And they do not give these out as easily as the Army. But, in one of my proud moments, bragging about my son, my son rebuked me. He said he was certain that many of this fellows deserved the medal just as much, and many were dead and unrecognized, it was just that what he did was witnessed, and it was written up and passed to the right people. That doesn't happen for all of these fine young men.
Truly we have great men in our military. It pains me to think what we have thrown away so easily as our country disintegrates.
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Not to denigrate ANY of these men, but it should be noted that these men were noticed and written up and submitted and received the recognition they deserved. There are thousands of others who also served and died bravely, not just random dead, but just as truly brave, who went unnoticed. My son, a true hero, was awarded the Bronze Star, with the combat V...for valor under fire, by the Marine Corps. And they do not give these out as easily as the Army. But, in one of my proud moments, bragging about my son, my son rebuked me. He said he was certain that many of this fellows deserved the medal just as much, and many were dead and unrecognized, it was just that what he did was witnessed, and it was written up and passed to the right people. That doesn't happen for all of these fine young men.
Truly we have great men in our military. It pains me to think what we have thrown away so easily as our country disintegrates.
You are absolutely right. I too could name those I know that deserve more than what they recieved in the way of recognition, but there are those that performed and noone wrote it up. One case will always cause disagreement in my mind - Major Richard Winters of WWII "Band of Brothers" fame - he was written up for the medal, but the powers that be in the army let it drop.
Winters at Marketgarden
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/World%20War%20II/marketgarden-winters.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/World%20War%20II/marketgarden-winters.jpg.html)
The book by Stephen Ambrose "Band of Brothers" and "Beyond Band of Brothers" by Major Dick Winters are good sources for information, and reasons why the army passed him over, IMO.
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Well said CHF. ::thumbsup::
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient # 10
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3245.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3245.jpg.html)
CAVAIANI, JON R.Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Army: Division: Vietnam Training Advisory Group Born: 2 August 1943, Royston, England: Entered Service At: Fresno, Calif.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 12/12/1974Accredited To: California Place / Date: Republic of Vietnam, 4 and 5 June 1971
Citation: S/Sgt. Cavaiani distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 4 and 5 June 1971 while serving as a platoon leader to a security platoon providing security for an isolated radio relay site located within enemy-held territory. On the morning of 4 June 1971, the entire camp came under an intense barrage of enemy small arms, automatic weapons, rocket-propelled grenade and mortar fire from a superior size enemy force. S/Sgt. Cavaiani acted with complete disregard for his personal safety as he repeatedly exposed himself to heavy enemy fire in order to move about the camp's perimeter directing the platoon's fire and rallying the platoon in a desperate fight for survival. S/Sgt. Cavaiani also returned heavy suppressive fire upon the assaulting enemy force during this period with a variety of weapons. When the entire platoon was to be evacuated, S/Sgt. Cavaiani unhesitatingly volunteered to remain on the ground and direct the helicopters into the landing zone. S/Sgt. Cavaiani was able to direct the first 3 helicopters in evacuating a major portion of the platoon. Due to intense increase in enemy fire, S/Sgt. Cavaiani was forced to remain at the camp overnight where he calmly directed the remaining platoon members in strengthening their defenses. On the morning of 5 June, a heavy ground fog restricted visibility. The superior size enemy force launched a major ground attack in an attempt to completely annihilate the remaining small force. The enemy force advanced in 2 ranks, first firing a heavy volume of small arms automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire while the second rank continuously threw a steady barrage of hand grenades at the beleaguered force. S/Sgt. Cavaiani returned a heavy barrage of small arms and hand grenade fire on the assaulting enemy force but was unable to slow them down. He ordered the remaining platoon members to attempt to escape while he provided them with cover fire. With 1 last courageous exertion, S/Sgt. Cavaiani recovered a machine gun, stood up, completely exposing himself to the heavy enemy fire directed at him, and began firing the machine gun in a sweeping motion along the 2 ranks of advancing enemy soldiers. Through S/Sgt. Cavaiani's valiant efforts with complete disregard for his safety, the majority of the remaining platoon members were able to escape. While inflicting severe losses on the advancing enemy force, S/Sgt. Cavaiani was wounded numerous times. S/Sgt. Cavaiani's conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism and intrepidity at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.
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Recipient #11
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/CoolidgeCharlesH-MOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/CoolidgeCharlesH-MOH.jpg.html)
COOLIDGE, CHARLES H. Rank: Technical Sergeant: U.S. Army: Company MDivision: 141st Infantry, 36th Infantry Division Born: August 4, 1921, Signal Mountain, Tenn.Entered Service At: Signal Mountain, Tenn.G.O. Number: 53Date of Issue: 06/18/1945Accredited To: TennesseePlace / Date: East of Belmont sur Buttant, France, 24-27 October, 1944
Citation: Leading a section of heavy machineguns supported by 1 platoon of Company K, he took a position near Hill 623, east of Belmont sur Buttant, France, on 24 October 1944, with the mission of covering the right flank of the 3d Battalion and supporting its action. T/Sgt. Coolidge went forward with a sergeant of Company K to reconnoiter positions for coordinating the fires of the light and heavy machineguns. They ran into an enemy force in the woods estimated to be an infantry company. T/Sgt. Coolidge, attempting to bluff the Germans by a show of assurance and boldness called upon them to surrender, whereupon the enemy opened fire. With his carbine, T/Sgt. Coolidge wounded 2 of them. There being no officer present with the force, T/Sgt. Coolidge at once assumed command. Many of the men were replacements recently arrived; this was their first experience under fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge, unmindful of the enemy fire delivered at close range, walked along the position, calming and encouraging his men and directing their fire. The attack was thrown back. Through 25 and 26 October the enemy launched repeated attacks against the position of this combat group but each was repulsed due to T/Sgt. Coolidge's able leadership. On 27 October, German infantry, supported by 2 tanks, made a determined attack on the position. The area was swept by enemy small arms, machine gun, and tank fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge armed himself with a bazooka and advanced to within 25 yards of the tanks. His bazooka failed to function and he threw it aside. Securing all the hand grenades he could carry, he crawled forward and inflicted heavy casualties on the advancing enemy. Finally it became apparent that the enemy, in greatly superior force, supported by tanks, would overrun the position. T/Sgt. Coolidge, displaying great coolness and courage, directed and conducted an orderly withdrawal, being himself the last to leave the position. As a result of T/Sgt. Coolidge's heroic and superior leadership, the mission of this combat group was accomplished throughout 4 days of continuous fighting against numerically superior enemy troops in rain and cold and amid dense woods.
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All these stories are good, but this one is a book/movie never done! Asking a superior force to surrender and then fending them off? Heck, whats not to like?!
::thumbsup:: ::USA::
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Isn't that the truth - think a line similar to that was in the "Butch Cassidy"movie near the end when the two of them were surrounded by 'federal officers'. But in real life it would take a brass pair IMO.
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Huge, ground-draggin' ones!
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Recipient #12
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/CrandallBrucePMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/CrandallBrucePMOH.jpg.html)
CRANDALL, BRUCE P.Rank: Major U.S. Army Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion Division: 1st Cavalry Division Born: February 17, 1933, Olympia, Washington, 1933 Entered Service At: Olympia, WAG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 02/26/2007Accredited To: Olympia, WAPlace / Date: Ia Drang Valley, Republic of Vietnam, 14 November 1965
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: Major Bruce P. Crandall distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism as a Flight Commander in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). On 14 November 1965, his flight of sixteen helicopters was lifting troops for a search and destroy mission from Plei Me, Vietnam, to Landing Zone X-Ray in the Ia Drang Valley. On the fourth troop lift, the airlift began to take enemy fire, and by the time the aircraft had refueled and returned for the next troop lift, the enemy had Landing Zone X-Ray targeted. As Major Crandall and the first eight helicopters landed to discharge troops on his fifth troop lift, his unarmed helicopter came under such intense enemy fire that the ground commander ordered the second flight of eight aircraft to abort their mission. As Major Crandall flew back to Plei Me, his base of operations, he determined that the ground commander of the besieged infantry batallion desperately needed more ammunition. Major Crandall then decided to adjust his base of operations to Artillery Firebase Falcon in order to shorten the flight distance to deliver ammunition and evacuate wounded soldiers. While medical evacuation was not his mission, he immediately sought volunteers and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, led the two aircraft to Landing Zone X-Ray. Despite the fact that the landing zone was still under relentless enemy fire, Major Crandall landed and proceeded to supervise the loading of seriously wounded soldiers aboard his aircraft. Major Crandall's voluntary decision to land under the most extreme fire instilled in the other pilots the will and spirit to continue to land their own aircraft, and in the ground forces the realization that they would be resupplied and that friendly wounded would be promptly evacuated. This greatly enhanced morale and the will to fight at a critical time. After his first medical evacuation, Major Crandall continued to fly into and out of the landing zone throughout the day and into the evening. That day he completed a total of 22 flights, most under intense enemy fire, retiring from the battlefield only after all possible service had been rendered to the Infantry battalion. His actions provided critical resupply of ammunition and evacuation of the wounded. Major Crandall's daring acts of bravery and courage in the face of an overwhelming and determined enemy are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Foot note: Major Crandall was played by Greg Kinnear in the movie -"We Were Soldiers" starring Mel Gibson, as ret. Gen. Hal Moore. Two Huey pilot recieved the Medal of Honor during this battle; the other being Capt. Ed"to tall" Freeman, who passed away Aug 20, 2008.
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I'm glad you put that notation in Rusty, not everyone may be familiar with the link to Col. Moore, I thought the movie did a good job with the event as a whole. Soon as I saw the name I knew, soon as I saw the date I had no doubt.
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Extra post for another recipient mentioned earlier that has deceased, Ed "to Tall" Freeman:
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/EdFreeman_zps7c4f4a19.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/EdFreeman_zps7c4f4a19.jpg.html)
FREEMAN, ED W.Rank: Captain: U.S. Army: Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter BattalionDivision: 1st Cavalry Division Born: 20 November 1927, Hattiesburg, MS Departed: Yes (08/20/2008)Entered Service At: Hattiesburg, MSG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 07/16/2001Accredited To: Hattiesburg, MSPlace / Date:
Citation: Captain Ed W. Freeman, United States Army, distinguished himself by numerous acts of conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary intrepidity on 14 November 1965 while serving with Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). As a flight leader and second in command of a 16-helicopter lift unit, he supported a heavily engaged American infantry battalion at Landing Zone X-Ray in the Ia Drang Valley, Republic of Vietnam. The unit was almost out of ammunition after taking some of the heaviest casualties of the war, fighting off a relentless attack from a highly motivated, heavily armed enemy force. When the infantry commander closed the helicopter landing zone due to intense direct enemy fire, Captain Freeman risked his own life by flying his unarmed helicopter through a gauntlet of enemy fire time after time, delivering critically needed ammunition, water and medical supplies to the besieged battalion. His flights had a direct impact on the battle's outcome by providing the engaged units with timely supplies of ammunition critical to their survival, without which they would almost surely have gone down, with much greater loss of life. After medical evacuation helicopters refused to fly into the area due to intense enemy fire, Captain Freeman flew 14 separate rescue missions, providing life-saving evacuation of an estimated 30 seriously wounded soldiers -- some of whom would not have survived had he not acted. All flights were made into a small emergency landing zone within 100 to 200 meters of the defensive perimeter where heavily committed units were perilously holding off the attacking elements. Captain Freeman's selfless acts of great valor, extraordinary perseverance and intrepidity were far above and beyond the call of duty or mission and set a superb example of leadership and courage for all of his peers. Captain Freeman's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
Extra military background on Ed Freeman is available and recommended at;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ed_Freeman (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ed_Freeman)
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::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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I wasn't aware that he was a Mustang. Mustangs were the best officers I knew.
(Mustang starts out as enlisted, then gets promoted or goes to school to become an officer.)
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I wasn't aware that he was a Mustang. Mustangs were the best officers I knew.
(Mustang starts out as enlisted, then gets promoted or goes to school to become an officer.)
Agreed. Had a LTjg as my maintenance officer in my last fighter squadron, he started as enlisted and upon completion of his bachelors degree was promoted to officer. Guys that know what an enlisted life is like are better overall, there were some college boys that were good guys, but some got the holier-than-thou attitude. My LT knew I wasn't going to re-up but get out and go to college, he told me be sure that I do and not slack off, I didn't and that was that. Good card player that guy too. Others I knew back then could advance from like E-6 or so and into Warrant Officer with a couple years of college, but even back then they were starting to cycle down those ranks. If any WO are around now likely they are long in the tooth!
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Recipient #13
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/CurryFranciaSMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/CurryFranciaSMOH.jpg.html)
CURREY, FRANCIS S. Rank: Private First Class: U.S. Army: Company KDivision: 120th Infantry, 30th Infantry Division Born: June 29, 1925, Loch Sheldrake, N.Y. Entered Service At: Hurleyville, N.Y.G.O. Number: 69Date of Issue: 07/27/1945Accredited To: New YorkPlace / Date: Malmedy, Belgium, 21 December 1944
Citation: He was an automatic rifleman with the 3d Platoon defending a strong point near Malmedy, Belgium, on 21 December 1944, when the enemy launched a powerful attack. Overrunning tank destroyers and antitank guns located near the strong point, German tanks advanced to the 3d Platoon's position, and, after prolonged fighting, forced the withdrawal of this group to a nearby factory. Sgt. Currey found a bazooka in the building and crossed the street to secure rockets meanwhile enduring intense fire from enemy tanks and hostile infantrymen who had taken up a position at a house a short distance away. In the face of small-arms, machinegun, and artillery fire, he, with a companion, knocked out a tank with 1 shot. Moving to another position, he observed 3 Germans in the doorway of an enemy-held house. He killed or wounded all 3 with his automatic rifle. He emerged from cover and advanced alone to within 50 yards of the house, intent on wrecking it with rockets. Covered by friendly fire, he stood erect, and fired a shot which knocked down half of 1 wall. While in this forward position, he observed 5 Americans who had been pinned down for hours by fire from the house and 3 tanks. Realizing that they could not escape until the enemy tank and infantry guns had been silenced, Sgt. Currey crossed the street to a vehicle, where he procured an armful of antitank grenades. These he launched while under heavy enemy fire, driving the tankmen from the vehicles into the house. He then climbed onto a half-track in full view of the Germans and fired a machinegun at the house. Once again changing his position, he manned another machinegun whose crew had been killed; under his covering fire the 5 soldiers were able to retire to safety. Deprived of tanks and with heavy infantry casualties, the enemy was forced to withdraw. Through his extensive knowledge of weapons and by his heroic and repeated braving of murderous enemy fire, Sgt. Currey was greatly responsible for inflicting heavy losses in men and material on the enemy, for rescuing 5 comrades, 2 of whom were wounded, and for stemming an attack which threatened to flank his battalion's position.
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One-man wrecking crew! ::thumbsup::
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #14
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/SDavis_zps33b9d539.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/SDavis_zps33b9d539.jpg.html)
DAVIS, SAMMY L.Rank: Private First Class: U.S. ArmyCompany: Battery C, 2d Battalion 4th Artillery, 9th Infantry Division Born: 1 November 1946, Dayton, Ohio Entered Service At: Indianapolis, Ind.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 11/19/1968Accredited To: IndianaPlace / Date: West of Cai Lay, Republic of Vietnam, 18 November 1967
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Davis (then PFc.) distinguished himself during the early morning hours while serving as a cannoneer with Battery C, at a remote fire support base. At approximately 0200 hours, the fire support base was under heavy enemy mortar attack. Simultaneously, an estimated reinforced Viet Cong battalion launched a fierce ground assault upon the fire support base. The attacking enemy drove to within 25 meters of the friendly positions. Only a river separated the Viet Cong from the fire support base. Detecting a nearby enemy position, Sgt. Davis seized a machinegun and provided covering fire for his guncrew, as they attempted to bring direct artillery fire on the enemy. Despite his efforts, an enemy recoilless rifle round scored a direct hit upon the artillery piece. The resultant blast hurled the guncrew from their weapon and blew Sgt. Davis into a foxhole. He struggled to his feet and returned to the howitzer, which was burning furiously. Ignoring repeated warning to seek cover, Sgt. Davis rammed a shell into the gun. Disregarding a withering hail of enemy fire directed against his position, he aimed and fired the howitzer which rolled backward, knocking Sgt. Davis violently to the ground. Undaunted, he returned to the weapon to fire again when an enemy mortar round exploded within 20 meters of his position, injured him painfully. Nevertheless, Sgt. Davis loaded the artillery piece, aimed and fired. Again he was knocked down by the recoil. In complete disregard for his safety, Sgt. Davis loaded and fired 3 more shells into the enemy. Disregarding his extensive injuries and his inability to swim, Sgt. Davis picked up an air mattress and struck out across the deep river to rescue 3 wounded comrades on the far side. Upon reaching the 3 wounded men, he stood upright and fired into the dense vegetation to prevent the Viet Cong from advancing. While the most seriously wounded soldier was helped across the river, Sgt. Davis protected the 2 remaining casualties until he could pull them across the river to the fire support base. Though suffering from painful wounds, he refused medical attention, joining another howitzer crew which fired at the large Viet Cong force until it broke contact and fled, Sgt. Davis? extraordinary heroism, at the risk of his life, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.
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Wow, can't be too many artillery men (especially outside of tankers) getting the MOH. Well done! ::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #15
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/DDewey_zpsdd47c6a4.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/DDewey_zpsdd47c6a4.jpg.html)
DEWEY, DUANE E.Rank: Corporal: U.S. Marine Corps: Company EDivision: 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division Born: 16 November 1931, Grand Rapids, Mich. Entered Service At: Muskegon, Mich.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 11/12/1953Accredited To: MichiganPlace / Date: Near Panmunjon, Korea, 16 April 1952
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a gunner in a machine gun platoon of Company E, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When an enemy grenade landed close to his position while he and his assistant gunner were receiving medical attention for their wounds during a fierce night attack by numerically superior hostile forces, Cpl. Dewey, although suffering intense pain, immediately pulled the corpsman to the ground and, shouting a warning to the other marines around him. bravely smothered the deadly missile with his body, personally absorbing the full force of the explosion to save his comrades from possible injury or death. His indomitable courage, outstanding initiative, and valiant efforts in behalf of others in the face of almost certain death reflect the highest credit upon Cpl. Dewey and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
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Recipient #16
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/DixDrewMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/DixDrewMOH.jpg.html)
DIX, DREW DENNIS Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Army: Division: U.S. Senior Advisor Group Born: 14 December 1944, West Point, N.Y.Entered Service At: Denver, Colo.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 01/16/1969Accredited To: Denver, COPlace / Date: Chau Doc Province, Republic of Vietnam, 31 January and 1 February 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Dix distinguished himself by exceptional heroism while serving as a unit adviser. Two heavily armed Viet Cong battalions attacked the Province capital city of Chau Phu resulting in the complete breakdown and fragmentation of the defenses of the city. S/Sgt. Dix, with a patrol of Vietnamese soldiers, was recalled to assist in the defense of Chau Phu. Learning that a nurse was trapped in a house near the center of the city, S/Sgt. Dix organized a relief force, successfully rescued the nurse, and returned her to the safety of the Tactical Operations Center. Being informed of other trapped civilians within the city, S/Sgt. Dix voluntarily led another force to rescue 8 civilian employees located in a building which was under heavy mortar and small-arms fire. S/Sgt. Dix then returned to the center of the city. Upon approaching a building, he was subjected to intense automatic rifle and machine gun fire from an unknown number of Viet Cong. He personally assaulted the building, killing 6 Viet Cong, and rescuing 2 Filipinos. The following day S/Sgt. Dix, still on his own volition, assembled a 20-man force and though under intense enemy fire cleared the Viet Cong out of the hotel, theater, and other adjacent buildings within the city. During this portion of the attack, Army Republic of Vietnam soldiers inspired by the heroism and success of S/Sgt. Dix, rallied and commenced firing upon the Viet Cong. S/Sgt. Dix captured 20 prisoners, including a high ranking Viet Cong official. He then attacked enemy troops who had entered the residence of the Deputy Province Chief and was successful in rescuing the official's wife and children. S/Sgt. Dix's personal heroic actions resulted in 14 confirmed Viet Cong killed in action and possibly 25 more, the capture of 20 prisoners, 15 weapons, and the rescue of the 14 United States and free world civilians. The heroism of S/Sgt. Dix was in the highest tradition and reflects great credit upon the U.S. Army.
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Recipient #17
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/DonlonRogerHCMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/DonlonRogerHCMOH.jpg.html)
DONLON, ROGER HUGH C.Rank: Captain: U.S. Army: Detachment A-726Division: 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne)Born: 30 January 1934, Saugerties, N.Y. Entered Service At: Fort Chaffee, Ark.G.O. Number: 41Date of Issue: 12/05/1964Accredited To: Place / Date: Near Nam Dong, Republic of Vietnam, 6 July 1964
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while defending a U.S. military installation against a fierce attack by hostile forces. Capt. Donlon was serving as the commanding officer of the U.S. Army Special Forces Detachment A-726 at Camp Nam Dong when a reinforced Viet Cong battalion suddenly launched a full-scale, predawn attack on the camp. During the violent battle that ensued, lasting 5 hours and resulting in heavy casualties on both sides, Capt. Donlon directed the defense operations in the midst of an enemy barrage of mortar shells, falling grenades, and extremely heavy gunfire. Upon the initial onslaught, he swiftly marshaled his forces and ordered the removal of the needed ammunition from a blazing building. He then dashed through a hail of small arms and exploding hand grenades to abort a breach of the main gate. En route to this position he detected an enemy demolition team of 3 in the proximity of the main gate and quickly annihilated them. Although exposed to the intense grenade attack, he then succeeded in reaching a 60mm mortar position despite sustaining a severe stomach wound as he was within 5 yards of the gun pit. When he discovered that most of the men in this gunpit were also wounded, he completely disregarded his own injury, directed their withdrawal to a location 30 meters away, and again risked his life by remaining behind and covering the movement with the utmost effectiveness. Noticing that his team sergeant was unable to evacuate the gun pit he crawled toward him and, while dragging the fallen soldier out of the gunpit, an enemy mortar exploded and inflicted a wound in Capt. Donlon's left shoulder. Although suffering from multiple wounds, he carried the abandoned 60mm mortar weapon to a new location 30 meters away where he found 3 wounded defenders. After administering first aid and encouragement to these men, he left the weapon with them, headed toward another position, and retrieved a 57mm recoilless rifle. Then with great courage and coolness under fire, he returned to the abandoned gun pit, evacuated ammunition for the 2 weapons, and while crawling and dragging the urgently needed ammunition, received a third wound on his leg by an enemy hand grenade. Despite his critical physical condition, he again crawled 175 meters to an 81mm mortar position and directed firing operations which protected the seriously threatened east sector of the camp. He then moved to an eastern 60mm mortar position and upon determining that the vicious enemy assault had weakened, crawled back to the gun pit with the 60mm mortar, set it up for defensive operations, and turned it over to 2 defenders with minor wounds. Without hesitation, he left this sheltered position, and moved from position to position around the beleaguered perimeter while hurling hand grenades at the enemy and inspiring his men to superhuman effort. As he bravely continued to move around the perimeter, a mortar shell exploded, wounding him in the face and body. As the long awaited daylight brought defeat to the enemy forces and their retreat back to the jungle leaving behind 54 of their dead, many weapons, and grenades, Capt. Donlon immediately reorganized his defenses and administered first aid to the wounded. His dynamic leadership, fortitude, and valiant efforts inspired not only the American personnel but the friendly Vietnamese defenders as well and resulted in the successful defense of the camp. Capt. Donlon's extraordinary heroism, at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
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::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
It never ceases to amaze me to find some of these men actually survived their ordeals.
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Recipient #18
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/EhlersWalterDMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/EhlersWalterDMOH.jpg.html)
EHLERS, WALTER D.Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Army: Division: 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division Born: May 7, 1921, Junction City, Kans. Entered Service At: Manhattan, Kans.G.O. Number: 91Date of Issue: 12/19/1944Accredited To: KansasPlace / Date: Near Goville, France, 9-10 June 1944
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty on 9-10 June 1944, near Goville, France. S/Sgt. Ehlers, always acting as the spearhead of the attack, repeatedly led his men against heavily defended enemy strong points exposing himself to deadly hostile fire whenever the situation required heroic and courageous leadership. Without waiting for an order, S/Sgt. Ehlers, far ahead of his men, led his squad against a strongly defended enemy strong point, personally killing 4 of an enemy patrol who attacked him en route. Then crawling forward under withering machinegun fire, he pounced upon the guncrew and put it out of action. Turning his attention to 2 mortars protected by the crossfire of 2 machineguns, S/Sgt. Ehlers led his men through this hail of bullets to kill or put to flight the enemy of the mortar section, killing 3 men himself. After mopping up the mortar positions, he again advanced on a machinegun, his progress effectively covered by his squad. When he was almost on top of the gun he leaped to his feet and, although greatly outnumbered, he knocked out the position single-handed. The next day, having advanced deep into enemy territory, the platoon of which S/Sgt. Ehlers was a member, finding itself in an untenable position as the enemy brought increased mortar, machinegun, and small arms fire to bear on it, was ordered to withdraw. S/Sgt. Ehlers, after his squad had covered the withdrawal of the remainder of the platoon, stood up and by continuous fire at the semicircle of enemy placements, diverted the bulk of the heavy hostile fire on himself, thus permitting the members of his own squad to withdraw. At this point, though wounded himself, he carried his wounded automatic rifleman to safety and then returned fearlessly over the shell-swept field to retrieve the automatic rifle which he was unable to carry previously. After having his wound treated, he refused to be evacuated, and returned to lead his squad. The intrepid leadership, indomitable courage, and fearless aggressiveness displayed by S/Sgt. Ehlers in the face of overwhelming enemy forces serve as an inspiration to others.
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Walter, Big Red One! He was profiled in that Ken Burns special.
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #19
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/FergusonFrederickEMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/FergusonFrederickEMOH.jpg.html)
FERGUSON, FREDERICK EDGAR Rank: Chief Warrant Officer: U.S. Army: Company C, 227th Aviation Battalion Division: 1st Cavalry Division Born: 18 August 1939, Pilot Point, Tex. Entered Service At: Phoenix, Ariz.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/17/1969Accredited To: ArizonaPlace / Date: Hue, Republic of Vietnam, 31 January 1968
Citation; For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. CWO Ferguson, U.S. Army distinguished himself while serving with Company C. CWO Ferguson, commander of a resupply helicopter monitoring an emergency call from wounded passengers and crewmen of a downed helicopter under heavy attack within the enemy controlled city of Hue, unhesitatingly volunteered to attempt evacuation. Despite warnings from all aircraft to stay clear of the area due to heavy antiaircraft fire, CWO Ferguson began a low-level flight at maximum airspeed along the Perfume River toward the tiny, isolated South Vietnamese Army compound in which the crash survivors had taken refuge. Coolly and skillfully maintaining his course in the face of intense, short range fire from enemy occupied buildings and boats, he displayed superior flying skill and tenacity of purpose by landing his aircraft in an extremely confined area in a blinding dust cloud under heavy mortar and small-arms fire. Although the helicopter was severely damaged by mortar fragments during the loading of the wounded, CWO Ferguson disregarded the damage and, taking off through the continuing hail of mortar fire, he flew his crippled aircraft on the return route through the rain of fire that he had experienced earlier and safely returned his wounded passengers to friendly control. CWO Ferguson's extraordinary determination saved the lives of 5 of his comrades. His actions are in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself and the U.S. Army.
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Ho li chit! That was a day into Tet, and IIRC Hue was right smack in the middle of it all!
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Ho li chit! That was a day into Tet, and IIRC Hue was right smack in the middle of it all!
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
The thing that really p*sses me - America idolizes drugged and out of control movie 'stars' and poor example sports 'heroes', but ignores these genuine heroes that left it all out on the line FOR America. To quote a phrase "Gave a blank signed check to America for their lives".
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Ho li chit! That was a day into Tet, and IIRC Hue was right smack in the middle of it all!
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
The thing that really p*sses me - America idolizes drugged and out of control movie 'stars' and poor example sports 'heroes', but ignores these genuine heroes that left it all out on the line FOR America. To quote a phrase "Gave a blank signed check to America for their lives".
Or, more than just ignored...they spat on (how vile!), yelled "baby-killer" at (and IIRC were NOT abortion doctors!) or made fools of (Hanoi Jane) anybody who served. Disagree on the war being the right one or not, fine, no problem, actively work for the enemy once engaged? Should be legal to slay those idiots on sight!
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Recipient #20
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-airforce.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-airforce.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/BernardFisherMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/BernardFisherMOH.jpg.html)
FISHER, BERNARD FRANCIS Rank: Major: U.S. Air Force: Division: 1st Air Commandos Born: 11 January 1927, San Bernardino, Calif. Entered Service At: Kuna, IdahoG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 01/19/1967Accredited To: Kuna, IDPlace / Date: Bien Hoa and Pleiku, Vietnam, 10 March 1966
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. On that date, the special forces camp at A Shau was under attack by 2,000 North Vietnamese Army regulars. Hostile troops had positioned themselves between the airstrip and the camp. Other hostile troops had surrounded the camp and were continuously raking it with automatic weapons fire from the surrounding hills. The tops of the 1,500-foot hills were obscured by an 800 foot ceiling, limiting aircraft maneuverability and forcing pilots to operate within range of hostile gun positions, which often were able to fire down on the attacking aircraft. During the battle, Maj. Fisher observed a fellow airman crash land on the battle-torn airstrip. In the belief that the downed pilot was seriously injured and in imminent danger of capture, Maj. Fisher announced his intention to land on the airstrip to effect a rescue. Although aware of the extreme danger and likely failure of such an attempt, he elected to continue. Directing his own air cover, he landed his aircraft and taxied almost the full length of the runway, which was littered with battle debris and parts of an exploded aircraft. While effecting a successful rescue of the downed pilot, heavy ground fire was observed, with 19 bullets striking his aircraft. In the face of the withering ground fire, he applied power and gained enough speed to lift-off at the overrun of the airstrip. Maj. Fisher's profound concern for his fellow airman, and at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Air Force and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
Note -- Cannot believe what I found - ENJOY;
Bernard Fisher, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhX17rXFVsM#)
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With these finds I will be back tracking. This next Bruce Candall of "We Were Soldiers" fame
Bruce Crandall, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIAEcZ29aG4#)
The ceremony;
Medal of Honor Presentation to Bruce Crandall (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gX0RNV8ej8g#ws)
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Recipient # 21
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/FitzmauriceMichaelJ.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/FitzmauriceMichaelJ.jpg.html)
FITZMAURICE, MICHAEL JOHN Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. Army Company: Troop D, 2d Squadron: 17th Cavalry, 101st Airborne Division Born: 9 March 1950, Jamestown, N. Dak. Entered Service At: Jamestown, N. Dak.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/15/1973Accredited To: Sioux Falls, SDPlace / Date: Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam, 23 March 1971
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. Fitzmaurice, 3d Platoon, Troop D, distinguished himself at Khe Sanh. Sp4c. Fitzmaurice and 3 fellow soldiers were occupying a bunker when a company of North Vietnamese sappers infiltrated the area. At the onset of the attack Sp4c. Fitzmaurice observed 3 explosive charges which had been thrown into the bunker by the enemy. Realizing the imminent danger to his comrades, and with complete disregard for his personal safety, he hurled 2 of the charges out of the bunker. He then threw his flak vest and himself over the remaining charge. By this courageous act he absorbed the blast and shielded his fellow-soldiers. Although suffering from serious multiple wounds and partial loss of sight, he charged out of the bunker, and engaged the enemy until his rifle was damaged by the blast of an enemy hand grenade. While in search of another weapon, Sp4c. Fitzmaurice encountered and overcame an enemy sapper in hand-to-hand combat. Having obtained another weapon, he returned to his original fighting position and inflicted additional casualties on the attacking enemy. Although seriously wounded, Sp4c. Fitzmaurice refused to be medically evacuated, preferring to remain at his post. Sp4c. Fitzmaurice's extraordinary heroism in action at the risk of his life contributed significantly to the successful defense of the position and resulted in saving the lives of a number of his fellow soldiers. These acts of heroism go above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit on Sp4c. Fitzmaurice and the U.S. Army.
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Unfortunately this recipient died January 17, 2014 before I got his valor posted here, but his tribute is found at Medal of Honor recipient dies, here is is story in his own words;
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
John McGinty, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sy2OOULnuOg#)
Me thinks it looks like Johnson worried more about photo ops, than honoring a true hero, ::thinking::
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Recipient #22
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-airforce.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-airforce.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/FlemingJamesPMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/FlemingJamesPMOH.jpg.html)
FLEMING, JAMES P.Rank: 1st Lieutenant: U.S. Air Force: Division: 20th Special Operations Squadron Born: 12 March 1943, Sedalia, Mo. Entered Service At: Pullman, Wash.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: WashingtonPlace / Date: Near Duc Co, Republic of Vietnam, 26 November 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Capt. Fleming (then 1st Lt.) distinguished himself as the Aircraft Commander of a UH-1F transport Helicopter. Capt. Fleming went to the aid of a 6-man special forces long range reconnaissance patrol that was in danger of being overrun by a large, heavily armed hostile force. Despite the knowledge that 1 helicopter had been downed by intense hostile fire, Capt. Fleming descended, and balanced his helicopter on a river bank with the tail boom hanging over open water. The patrol could not penetrate to the landing site and he was forced to withdraw. Dangerously low on fuel, Capt. Fleming repeated his original landing maneuver. Disregarding his own safety, he remained in this exposed position. Hostile fire crashed through his windscreen as the patrol boarded his helicopter. Capt. Fleming made a successful takeoff through a barrage of hostile fire and recovered safely at a forward base. Capt. Fleming's profound concern for his fellowmen, and at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Air Force and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
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Another video - Sammy Davis, posted earlier
Sammy Davis, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOWBw7muH9M#)
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Exceptional posts Rusty!
These are who we as a people should be looking up to as role models!
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #23
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/FoxWesleyLMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/FoxWesleyLMOH.jpg.html)
FOX, WESLEY L. Rank: 1st Lieutenant: U.S. Marine Corps: Company A, 1st BattalionDivision: 9th Marines, 3d Marine DivisionBorn: 30 September 1931, Herndon, Va. Entered Service At: Leesburg, Va.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/02/1971Accredited To: Leesburg, VAPlace / Date: Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, 22 February 1969
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as commanding officer of Company A, in action against the enemy in the northern A Shau Valley. Capt. (then 1st Lt.) Fox's company came under intense fire from a large well concealed enemy force. Capt. Fox maneuvered to a position from which he could assess the situation and confer with his platoon leaders. As they departed to execute the plan he had devised, the enemy attacked and Capt. Fox was wounded along with all of the other members of the command group, except the executive officer. Capt. Fox continued to direct the activity of his company. Advancing through heavy enemy fire, he personally neutralized 1 enemy position and calmly ordered an assault against the hostile emplacements. He then moved through the hazardous area coordinating aircraft support with the activities of his men. When his executive officer was mortally wounded, Capt. Fox reorganized the company and directed the fire of his men as they hurled grenades against the enemy and drove the hostile forces into retreat. Wounded again in the final assault, Capt. Fox refused medical attention, established a defensive posture, and supervised the preparation of casualties for medical evacuation. His indomitable courage, inspiring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger inspired his marines to such aggressive action that they overcame all enemy resistance and destroyed a large bunker complex. Capt. Fox's heroic actions reflect great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps, and uphold the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
FOX, WESLEY L.Rank: 1st LieutenantOrganization: U.S. Marine CorpsCompany: Company A, 1st BattalionDivision: 9th Marines, 3d Marine DivisionBorn: 30 September 1931, Herndon, Va.Departed: NoEntered Service At: Leesburg, Va.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/02/1971Accredited To: Leesburg, VAPlace / Date: Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, 22 February 1969
CitationFor conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as commanding officer of Company A, in action against the enemy in the northern A Shau Valley. Capt. (then 1st Lt.) Fox's company came under intense fire from a large well concealed enemy force. Capt. Fox maneuvered to a position from which he could assess the situation and confer with his platoon leaders. As they departed to execute the plan he had devised, the enemy attacked and Capt. Fox was wounded along with all of the other members of the command group, except the executive officer. Capt. Fox continued to direct the activity of his company. Advancing through heavy enemy fire, he personally neutralized 1 enemy position and calmly ordered an assault against the hostile emplacements. He then moved through the hazardous area coordinating aircraft support with the activities of his men. When his executive officer was mortally wounded, Capt. Fox reorganized the company and directed the fire of his men as they hurled grenades against the enemy and drove the hostile forces into retreat. Wounded again in the final assault, Capt. Fox refused medical attention, established a defensive posture, and supervised the preparation of casualties for medical evacuation. His indomitable courage, inspiring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger inspired his marines to such aggressive action that they overcame all enemy resistance and destroyed a large bunker complex. Capt. Fox's heroic actions reflect great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps, and uphold the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Wesley Fox, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNVBMAMBbu4#)
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I know from previous readings that the A Shau Valley was a meat-grinder for many a young man.
2 tours in Korea and then caught in Vietnam for Tet, ugh.
I like his honesty in describing our operations as not "search and destroy" but "search and avoid".
And we still see idiotic ROEs today, and it always seems like progressives are the ones issuing them! ::pullhair::
Glad for those that came back, sad and and angry over those who didn't.
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #24
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3287.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3287.jpg.html)
FRITZ, HAROLD A. Rank: 1st Lieutenant: U.S. Army: Troop A, 1st SquadronDivision: 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Born: 21 February 1944, Chicago, Ill. Entered Service At: Milwaukee, Wis.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/02/1971Accredited To: Milwaukee, WIPlace / Date: Binh Long Province, Republic of Vietnam, 11 January 1969
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Capt. (then 1st Lt.) Fritz, Armor, U.S. Army, distinguished himself while serving as a platoon leader with Troop A, near Quan Loi. Capt. Fritz was leading his 7-vehicle armored column along Highway 13 to meet and escort a truck convoy when the column suddenly came under intense crossfire from a reinforced enemy company deployed in ambush positions. In the initial attack, Capt. Fritz' vehicle was hit and he was seriously wounded. Realizing that his platoon was completely surrounded, vastly outnumbered, and in danger of being overrun, Capt. Fritz leaped to the top of his burning vehicle and directed the positioning of his remaining vehicles and men. With complete disregard for his wounds and safety, he ran from vehicle to vehicle in complete view of the enemy gunners in order to reposition his men, to improve the defenses, to assist the wounded, to distribute ammunition, to direct fire, and to provide encouragement to his men. When a strong enemy force assaulted the position and attempted to overrun the platoon, Capt. Fritz manned a machine gun and through his exemplary action inspired his men to deliver intense and deadly fire which broke the assault and routed the attackers. Moments later a second enemy force advanced to within 2 meters of the position and threatened to overwhelm the defenders. Capt. Fritz, armed only with a pistol and bayonet, led a small group of his men in a fierce and daring charge which routed the attackers and inflicted heavy casualties. When a relief force arrived, Capt. Fritz saw that it was not deploying effectively against the enemy positions, and he moved through the heavy enemy fire to direct its deployment against the hostile positions. This deployment forced the enemy to abandon the ambush site and withdraw. Despite his wounds, Capt. Fritz returned to his position, assisted his men, and refused medical attention until all of his wounded comrades had been treated and evacuated. The extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by Capt. Fritz, at the repeated risk of his own life above and beyond the call of duty, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect the greatest credit upon himself, his unit, and the Armed Forces.
Harold Fritz, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaynXKSSTTw#)
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Another previous post [16[, prior to video discovery
Drew Dix
Drew Dix, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_nA8e0YDfI#)
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I heard an ad on the radio today that was raising funds for a some Vietnam Vet related thing or another...I cannto recall what, but the mentioned the story of Ed Freeman and then they mentioned a stat I guess surprised me, being that Vietnam isn't that long ago, not like Korea or WWII...something like 280 Vietnam Vets pass on each day. Each day?!
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I heard an ad on the radio today that was raising funds for a some Vietnam Vet related thing or another...I cannto recall what, but the mentioned the story of Ed Freeman and then they mentioned a stat I guess surprised me, being that Vietnam isn't that long ago, not like Korea or WWII...something like 280 Vietnam Vets pass on each day. Each day?!
According to emails I get, Ed Freeman had died for the 12th time last Friday.
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Ed 'too tall' Freeman died August 20, 2008
Not surprising Vietnam vets are up next in the passing lists - few WWII vets remain, and many Korean vets are gone [three of my uncles, and two of wifes] now it's come around to Vietnam era. [I was in the early part of the build up [1961-65] so that puts me in the time frame [in my 70's now]]. One cousin served 2 tours in Army in country is already gone and four others all younger than I, aren't doing well. Time continues to move on.....
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Recipient #25
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/GiuntaSalvatore_zps1955835c.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/GiuntaSalvatore_zps1955835c.jpg.html)
GIUNTA, SALVATORE A. Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Army: Battle Company, 2nd Battalion: Company B, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry RegimentBorn: 21 January 1985, Clinton, Iowa Entered Service At: Cedar Rapids, IowaG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 11/16/2010Accredited To: IowaPlace / Date: Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, 25 October 2007
Citation: Specialist Salvatore A. Giunta distinguished himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with an armed enemy in the Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, on October 25, 2007. While conducting a patrol as team leader with Company B, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, Specialist Giunta and his team were navigating through harsh terrain when they were ambushed by a well-armed and well-coordinated insurgent force. While under heavy enemy fire, Specialist Giunta immediately sprinted towards cover and engaged the enemy. Seeing that his squad leader had fallen and believing that he had been injured, Specialist Giunta exposed himself to withering enemy fire and raced towards his squad leader, helped him to cover, and administered medical aid. While administering first aid, enemy fire struck Specialist Giunta's body armor and his secondary weapon. Without regard to the ongoing fire, Specialist Giunta engaged the enemy before prepping and throwing grenades, using the explosions for cover in order to conceal his position. Attempting to reach additional wounded fellow soldiers who were separated from the squad, Specialist Giunta and his team encountered a barrage of enemy fire that forced them to the ground. The team continued forward and upon reaching the wounded soldiers, Specialist Giunta realized that another soldier was still separated from the element. Specialist Giunta then advanced forward on his own initiative. As he crested the top of a hill, he observed two insurgents carrying away an American soldier. He immediately engaged the enemy, killing one and wounding the other. Upon reaching the wounded soldier, he began to provide medical aid, as his squad caught up and provided security. Specialist Giunta's unwavering courage, selflessness, and decisive leadership while under extreme enemy fire were integral to his platoon's ability to defeat an enemy ambush and recover a fellow American soldier from the enemy. Specialist Salvatore A. Giunta's extraordinary heroism and selflessness above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Company B, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, and the United States Army.
Salvatore Giunta, Medal of Honor, War in Afghanistan (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1L5Kx1Zz_4#ws)
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Back to Recipient #1 Gen. Foley [ret.]
Robert Foley, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zp1Q-2hGO_A#)
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Recipient #26
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/HagemeisterCharlesMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/HagemeisterCharlesMOH.jpg.html)
HAGEMEISTER, CHARLES CHRIS Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. Army: Division: 1st Cavalry Division Born: 21 August 1946, Lincoln, NE Entered Service At: Lincoln, Nebr.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1968 Accredited To: Lincoln, NEPlace / Date: Binh Dinh Province, Republic of Vietnam, 20 March 1967
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While conducting combat operations against a hostile force, Sp5c. Hagemeister's platoon suddenly came under heavy attack from 3 sides by an enemy force occupying well concealed, fortified positions and supported by machine guns and mortars. Seeing 2 of his comrades seriously wounded in the initial action, Sp5c. Hagemeister unhesitatingly and with total disregard for his safety, raced through the deadly hail of enemy fire to provide them medical aid. Upon learning that the platoon leader and several other soldiers also had been wounded, Sp5c. Hagemeister continued to brave the withering enemy fire and crawled forward to render lifesaving treatment and to offer words of encouragement. Attempting to evacuate the seriously wounded soldiers, Sp5c. Hagemeister was taken under fire at close range by an enemy sniper. Realizing that the lives of his fellow soldiers depended on his actions, Sp5c. Hagemeister seized a rifle from a fallen comrade, killed the sniper, 3 other enemy soldiers who were attempting to encircle his position and silenced an enemy machine gun that covered the area with deadly fire. Unable to remove the wounded to a less exposed location and aware of the enemy's efforts to isolate his unit, he dashed through the fusillade of fire to secure help from a nearby platoon. Returning with help, he placed men in positions to cover his advance as he moved to evacuate the wounded forward of his location. These efforts successfully completed, he then moved to the other flank and evacuated additional wounded men despite the fact that his every move drew fire from the enemy. Sp5c. Hagemeister's repeated heroic and selfless actions at the risk of his life saved the lives of many of his comrades and inspired their actions in repelling the enemy assault. Sp5c. Hagemeister's indomitable courage was in the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces and reflect great credit upon himself.
Charles Hagemeister, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkIuf9p3UiA#)
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Video of Ed Freeman posted [extra] right after #12 Bruce Crandall
Ed Freeman, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdDYNI7V0co#)
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::thumbsup::
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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::thumbsup::
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
Hard to add to that. ::USA::
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Recipient #27
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3300.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3300.jpg.html)
HERDA, FRANK A. Rank: Private First Class: U.S. Army: Company A, 1st Battalion Division: 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne DivisionBorn: 13 September 1947, Cleveland, Ohio Entered Service At: Cleveland, OHG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: Cleveland, OHPlace / Date: Near Dak To, Quang Trang Province, Republic of Vietnam, 29 June 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. Herda (then Pfc.) distinguished himself while serving as a grenadier with Company A. Company A was part of a battalion-size night defensive perimeter when a large enemy force initiated an attack on the friendly units. While other enemy elements provided diversionary fire and indirect weapons fire to the west, a sapper force of approximately 30 men armed with hand grenades and small charges attacked Company A's perimeter from the east. As the sappers were making a last, violent assault, 5 of them charged the position defended by Sp4c. Herda and 2 comrades, 1 of whom was wounded and lay helpless in the bottom of the foxhole. Sp4c. Herda fired at the aggressors until they were within 10 feet of his position and 1 of their grenades landed in the foxhole. He fired 1 last round from his grenade launcher, hitting 1 of the enemy soldiers in the head, and then, with no concern for his safety, Sp4c. Herda immediately covered the blast of the grenade with his body. The explosion wounded him grievously, but his selfless action prevented his 2 comrades from being seriously injured or killed and enabled the remaining defender to kill the other sappers. By his gallantry at the risk of his life in the highest traditions of the military service, Sp4c. Herda has reflected great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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Ugh! Can't adequately imagine such a situation!
::USA::
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Extra Addition Recipient - One of our members MILTRAINER knew this Medal of Honor winner as a trainer during his Army tour. Thanks for the input and update MilTrainer here is your addition and sorry he departed in 2010 -
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/military/Colors-halfstaff.gif) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/military/Colors-halfstaff.gif.html)
RIP SSgt. Bacon
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3220.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3220.jpg.html)
BACON, NICKY DANIEL Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Army: Company B, 4th Battalion Division: 21st Infantry, 11th Infantry Brigade Born: 25 November 1945, Caraway, Ark. Departed: Yes (07/17/2010) Entered Service At: Phoenix, Ariz.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: Accredited To: Place / Date: West of Tam Ky, Republic of Vietnam, 26 August 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Bacon distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader with the 1st Platoon, Company B, during an operation west of Tam Ky. When Company B came under fire from an enemy bunker line to the front, S/Sgt. Bacon quickly organized his men and led them forward in an assault. He advanced on a hostile bunker and destroyed it with grenades. As he did so, several fellow soldiers including the 1st Platoon leader, were struck by machine gun fire and fell wounded in an exposed position forward of the rest of the platoon. S/Sgt. Bacon immediately assumed command of the platoon and assaulted the hostile gun position, finally killing the enemy gun crew in a single-handed effort. When the 3d Platoon moved to S/Sgt. Bacon's location, its leader was also wounded. Without hesitation S/Sgt. Bacon took charge of the additional platoon and continued the fight. In the ensuing action he personally killed 4 more enemy soldiers and silenced an antitank weapon. Under his leadership and example, the members of both platoons accepted his authority without question. Continuing to ignore the intense hostile fire, he climbed up on the exposed deck of a tank and directed fire into the enemy position while several wounded men were evacuated. As a result of S/Sgt. Bacon's extraordinary efforts, his company was able to move forward, eliminate the enemy positions, and rescue the men trapped to the front. S/Sgt. Bacon's bravery at the risk of his life was in the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Nicky Bacon, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5cFaAofTm0#)
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Recipient #28
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3128.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3128.jpg.html)
HUDNER, THOMAS JEROME, JR.Rank: Lieutenantn: U.S. Navy: Division: Fighter Squadron 32 Born: 31 August 1924, Fall River, Mass. Entered Service At: Fall River, Mass.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 04/13/1951Accredited To: Fall River, MAPlace / Date: Chosin Reservoir area of Korea, 4 December 1950
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a pilot in Fighter Squadron 32, while attempting to rescue a squadron mate whose plane struck by antiaircraft fire and trailing smoke, was forced down behind enemy lines. Quickly maneuvering to circle the downed pilot and protect him from enemy troops infesting the area, Lt. (J.G.) Hudner risked his life to save the injured flier who was trapped alive in the burning wreckage. Fully aware of the extreme danger in landing on the rough mountainous terrain and the scant hope of escape or survival in subzero temperature, he put his plane down skillfully in a deliberate wheels-up landing in the presence of enemy troops. With his bare hands, he packed the fuselage with snow to keep the flames away from the pilot and struggled to pull him free. Unsuccessful in this, he returned to his crashed aircraft and radioed other airborne planes, requesting that a helicopter be dispatched with an ax and fire extinguisher. He then remained on the spot despite the continuing danger from enemy action and, with the assistance of the rescue pilot, renewed a desperate but unavailing battle against time, cold, and flames. Lt. (J.G.) Hudner's exceptionally valiant action and selfless devotion to a shipmate sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
This video is about the ret. Captain returning for the remains of the person he tried to safe ---
http://www.cnn.com/2013/07/21/world/asia/north-korea-veterans (http://www.cnn.com/2013/07/21/world/asia/north-korea-veterans)
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Knew the Hudner story, the Bacon story was new to me. Bacon's story impressed me, that's what leadership really looks like!
Salutes to both!
::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #29
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3129.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3129.jpg.html)
INGMAN, EINAR H., JR. Rank: Sergeant: U.S. Army: Company EDivision: 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division Born: 6 October 1929, Milwaukee, Wis. Entered Service At: Tomahawk, Wis.G.O. Number: 68Date of Issue: 08/02/1951Accredited To: Place / Date: Near Maltari, Korea, 26 February 1951
Citation: Sgt. Ingman, a member of Company E, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. The 2 leading squads of the assault platoon of his company, while attacking a strongly fortified ridge held by the enemy, were pinned down by withering fire and both squad leaders and several men were wounded. Cpl. Ingman assumed command, reorganized and combined the 2 squads, then moved from 1 position to another, designating fields of fire and giving advice and encouragement to the men. Locating an enemy machine gun position that was raking his men with devastating fire he charged it alone, threw a grenade into the position, and killed the remaining crew with rifle fire. Another enemy machine gun opened fire approximately 15 yards away and inflicted additional casualties to the group and stopped the attack. When Cpl. Ingman charged the second position he was hit by grenade fragments and a hail of fire which seriously wounded him about the face and neck and knocked him to the ground. With incredible courage and stamina, he arose instantly and, using only his rifle, killed the entire guncrew before falling unconscious from his wounds. As a result of the singular action by Cpl. Ingman the defense of the enemy was broken, his squad secured its objective, and more than 100 hostile troops abandoned their weapons and fled in disorganized retreat. Cpl. Ingman's indomitable courage, extraordinary heroism, and superb leadership reflect the highest credit on himself and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the infantry and the U.S. Army.
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Korea, the first "forgotten war", turned into a bloody hellacious meatgrinder that ended in stalemate, thanks to Truman sacking the only General who showed an interest in killing the enemy!
::pullhair::
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Recipient #30
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3309.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3309.jpg.html)
INGRAM, ROBERT R.Rank: Petty Officer: U.S. Navy: Company C, 1st BattalionDivision: 7th Marines, 1st Marine DivisionBorn: Entered Service At: Clearwater, FLG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 07/10/1998Accredited To: Place / Date: Vietnam, March 28, 1966
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Corpsman with Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines against elements of a North Vietnam Aggressor (NVA) battalion in Quang Ngai Province Republic of Vietnam on 28 March 1966. Petty Officer Ingram accompanied the point platoon as it aggressively dispatched an outpost of an NVA battalion. The momentum of the attack rolled off a ridge line down a tree covered slope to a small paddy and a village beyond. Suddenly, the village tree line exploded with an intense hail of automatic rifle fire from approximately 100 North Vietnamese regulars. In mere moments, the platoon ranks were decimated. Oblivious to the danger, Petty Officer Ingram crawled across the bullet spattered terrain to reach a downed Marine. As he administered aid, a bullet went through the palm of his hand. Calls for "CORPSMAN" echoed across the ridge. Bleeding, he edged across the fire swept landscape, collecting ammunition from the dead and administering aid to the wounded. Receiving two more wounds before realizing the third wound was life-threatening, he looked for a way off the face of the ridge, but again he heard the call for corpsman and again, he resolutely answered. Though severely wounded three times, he rendered aid to those incapable until he finally reached the right flank of the platoon. While dressing the head wound of another corpsman, he sustained his fourth bullet wound. From sixteen hundred hours until just prior to sunset, Petty Officer Ingram pushed, pulled, cajoled, and doctored his Marines. Enduring the pain from his many wounds and disregarding the probability of his demise, Petty Officer Ingram's intrepid actions saved many lives that day. By his indomitable fighting spirit, daring initiative, and unfaltering dedications to duty, Petty Officer Ingram reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Robert Ingram, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-km-hSQP_zc#)
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Corpsman!
::thumbsup:: ::USA::
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Recipient #31
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/2801.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/2801.jpg.html)
JACKSON, ARTHUR J. Rank: Private First Class: U.S. Marine Corps 3d Battalion Division: 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division Born: 18 October 1924, Cleveland, Ohio Entered Service At: OregonG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/05/1945Accredited To: Portland, ORPlace / Date: Island of Peleliu in the Palau group, 18 September 1944
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Peleliu in the Palau group, 18 September 1944. Boldly taking the initiative when his platoon's left flank advance was held up by the fire of Japanese troops concealed in strongly fortified positions, Pfc. Jackson unhesitatingly proceeded forward of our lines and, courageously defying the heavy barrages, charged a large pillbox housing approximately 35 enemy soldiers. Pouring his automatic fire into the opening of the fixed installation to trap the occupying troops, he hurled white phosphorus grenades and explosive charges brought up by a fellow marine, demolishing the pillbox and killing all of the enemy. Advancing alone under the continuous fire from other hostile emplacements, he employed similar means to smash 2 smaller positions in the immediate vicinity. Determined to crush the entire pocket of resistance although harassed on all sides by the shattering blasts of Japanese weapons and covered only by small rifle parties, he stormed 1 gun position after another, dealing death and destruction to the savagely fighting enemy in his inexorable drive against the remaining defenses, and succeeded in wiping out a total of 12 pillboxes and 50 Japanese soldiers. Stouthearted and indomitable despite the terrific odds. Pfc. Jackson resolutely maintained control of the platoon's left flank movement throughout his valiant 1-man assault and, by his cool decision and relentless fighting spirit during a critical situation, contributed essentially to the complete annihilation of the enemy in the southern sector of the island. His gallant initiative and heroic conduct in the face of extreme peril reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Jackson and the U.S. Naval Service.
Arthur Jackson, Medal of Honor, WWII (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yJNH6TPZ_Y#)
Note; For more information about the Marine battle for Peleliu a great book "With the Old Breed" by Marine Cpl. E.B. Sledge who fought there, and kept daily notes in his Bible. Sledge returned to Alabama, returned to college, recieved his PHD in Biology and taught at the University of Montevallo. E.B. Sledge died March 3, 2001. This book led to the series "Pacific" on TV by Tom Hanks.
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Oorah! ::USA::
Peleliu was nasty. A painful series of lessons that made us change tactics for later campaigns all through to Okinawa. Tank and man-carried flamethrowers...couldn't have enough of 'em on hand to root those devils out.
::victory::
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Recipient #32
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3311.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3311.jpg.html)
JACOBS, JACK H. Rank: 1st Lieutenant: U.S. Army: Division: U.S. Army Support Command Born: 2 August 1945, Brooklyn, N.Y. Entered Service At: Trenton, N.J.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/09/1969Accredited To: Trenton, NJPlace / Date: Kien Phong Province, Republic of Vietnam, 9 March 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Capt. Jacobs (then 1st Lt.), Infantry, distinguished himself while serving as assistant battalion advisor, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. The 2d Battalion was advancing to contact when it came under intense heavy machine gun and mortar fire from a Viet Cong battalion positioned in well fortified bunkers. As the 2d Battalion deployed into attack formation its advance was halted by devastating fire. Capt. Jacobs, with the command element of the lead company, called for and directed air strikes on the enemy positions to facilitate a renewed attack. Due to the intensity of the enemy fire and heavy casualties to the command group, including the company commander, the attack stopped and the friendly troops became disorganized. Although wounded by mortar fragments, Capt. Jacobs assumed command of the allied company, ordered a withdrawal from the exposed position and established a defensive perimeter. Despite profuse bleeding from head wounds which impaired his vision, Capt. Jacobs, with complete disregard for his safety, returned under intense fire to evacuate a seriously wounded advisor to the safety of a wooded area where he administered lifesaving first aid. He then returned through heavy automatic weapons fire to evacuate the wounded company commander. Capt. Jacobs made repeated trips across the fire-swept open rice paddies evacuating wounded and their weapons. On 3 separate occasions, Capt. Jacobs contacted and drove off Viet Cong squads who were searching for allied wounded and weapons, single-handedly killing 3 and wounding several others. His gallant actions and extraordinary heroism saved the lives of 1 U.S. advisor and 13 allied soldiers. Through his effort the allied company was restored to an effective fighting unit and prevented defeat of the friendly forces by a strong and determined enemy. Capt. Jacobs, by his gallantry and bravery in action in the highest traditions of the military service, has reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Jack Jacobs, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otM8AroOvEk#)
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Ufda, another hairy episode. I am always being surprised when people survive such encounters.
::USA::
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Recipient #33
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3312.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3312.jpg.html)
JENKINS, DON J. Rank: Private First Class: U.S. Army: Company A, 2d Battalion Division: 39th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division Born: 18 April 1948, Quality, Ky. Entered Service At: Nashville, Tenn.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/02/1971Accredited To: Nashville, TNPlace / Date: Kien Phong Province, Republic of Vietnam, 6 January 1969
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Jenkins (then Pfc.), Company A, distinguished himself while serving as a machine gunner on a reconnaissance mission. When his company came under heavy crossfire from an enemy complex, S/Sgt. Jenkins unhesitatingly maneuvered forward to a perilously exposed position and began placing suppressive fire on the enemy. When his own machine gun jammed, he immediately obtained a rifle and continued to fire into the enemy bunkers until his machine gun was made operative by his assistant. He exposed himself to extremely heavy fire when he repeatedly both ran and crawled across open terrain to obtain resupplies of ammunition until he had exhausted all that was available for his machine gun. Displaying tremendous presence of mind, he then armed himself with 2 antitank weapons and, by himself, maneuvered through the hostile fusillade to within 20 meters of an enemy bunker to destroy that position. After moving back to the friendly defensive perimeter long enough to secure yet another weapon, a grenade launcher, S/Sgt. Jenkins moved forward to a position providing no protection and resumed placing accurate fire on the enemy until his ammunition was again exhausted. During this time he was seriously wounded by shrapnel. Undaunted and displaying great courage, he moved forward 100 meters to aid a friendly element that was pinned down only a few meters from the enemy. This he did with complete disregard for his own wound and despite having been advised that several previous rescue attempts had failed at the cost of the life of 1 and the wounding of others. Ignoring the continuing intense fire and his painful wounds, and hindered by darkness, he made 3 trips to the beleaguered unit, each time pulling a wounded comrade back to safety. S/Sgt. Jenkins' extraordinary valor, dedication, and indomitable spirit inspired his fellow soldiers to repulse the determined enemy attack and ultimately to defeat the larger force. S/Sgt. Jenkins risk of his life reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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There are lots of stories, not just of MOH awardees, others, who "keep going back"...
Amazing. Humbling.
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #34
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3327.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3327.jpg.html)
KELLEY, THOMAS G. Rank: Lieutenant: U.S. Navy: Division: River Assault Division 152 Born: 13 May 1939, Boston, Mass. Entered Service At: Boston, Mass.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: Boston, MAPlace / Date: Ong Muong Canal, Kien Hoa province, Republic of Vietnam, 15 June 1969
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in the afternoon while serving as commander of River Assault Division 152 during combat operations against enemy aggressor forces. Lt. Comdr. (then Lt.) Kelley was in charge of a column of 8 river assault craft which were extracting 1 company of U.S. Army infantry troops on the east bank of the Ong Muong Canal in Kien Hoa province, when 1 of the armored troop carriers reported a mechanical failure of a loading ramp. At approximately the same time, Viet Cong forces opened fire from the opposite bank of the canal. After issuing orders for the crippled troop carrier to raise its ramp manually, and for the remaining boats to form a protective cordon around the disabled craft, Lt. Comdr. Kelley realizing the extreme danger to his column and its inability to clear the ambush site until the crippled unit was repaired, boldly maneuvered the monitor in which he was embarked to the exposed side of the protective cordon in direct line with the enemy's fire, and ordered the monitor to commence firing. Suddenly, an enemy rocket scored a direct hit on the coxswain's flat, the shell penetrating the thick armor plate, and the explosion spraying shrapnel in all directions. Sustaining serious head wounds from the blast, which hurled him to the deck of the monitor, Lt. Cmdr. Kelley disregarded his severe injuries and attempted to continue directing the other boats. Although unable to move from the deck or to speak clearly into the radio, he succeeded in relaying his commands through 1 of his men until the enemy attack was silenced and the boats were able to move to an area of safety. Lt. Comdr. Kelley's brilliant leadership, bold initiative, and resolute determination served to inspire his men and provide the impetus needed to carry out the mission after he was medically evacuated by helicopter. His extraordinary courage under fire, and his selfless devotion to duty sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Thomas Kelley, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGCVLmx5TW0#)
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Oh, I know this one. I don't get the Military Channel but my father does, had a show on there about this exact engagement. Heck of a story.
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #35
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/KelloggAllanMOH.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/KelloggAllanMOH.jpg.html)
KELLOGG, ALLAN JAY, JR. Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Marine Corps: Company G, 2d Battalion Division: 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division Born: 1 October 1943, Bethel, Conn. Entered Service At: Bridgeport, Conn.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/15/1973Accredited To: Bridgeport, CTPlace / Date: Quang Nam province, Republic of Vietnam, 11 March 1970
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a platoon sergeant with Company G, in connection with combat operations against the enemy on the night of 11 March 1970. Under the leadership of G/Sgt. Kellogg, a small unit from Company G was evacuating a fallen comrade when the unit came under a heavy volume of small arms and automatic weapons fire from a numerically superior enemy force occupying well-concealed emplacements in the surrounding jungle. During the ensuing fierce engagement, an enemy soldier managed to maneuver through the dense foliage to a position near the marines, and hurled a hand grenade into their midst which glanced off the chest of G/Sgt. Kellogg. Quick to act, he forced the grenade into the mud in which he was standing, threw himself over the lethal weapon and absorbed the full effects of its detonation with his body thereby preventing serious injury or possible death to several of his fellow marines. Although suffering multiple injuries to his chest and his right shoulder and arm, G/Sgt. Kellogg resolutely continued to direct the efforts of his men until all were able to maneuver to the relative safety of the company perimeter. By his heroic and decisive action in risking his life to save the lives of his comrades, G/Sgt. Kellogg reflected the highest credit upon himself and upheld the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service.
Allan Kellogg, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hc4azSnFm6Q#)
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::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient #36
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3329.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3329.jpg.html)
KERREY, JOSEPH R. Rank: Lieutenant, Junior Grade: U.S. Navy: Division: SEAL Born: 27 August 1943, Lincoln, Nebr. Entered Service At: Omaha, Nebr.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: Omaha, NEPlace / Date: Near Nha Trang Bay, Republic of Vietnam, 14 March 1969
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a SEAL team leader during action against enemy aggressor (Viet Cong) forces. Acting in response to reliable intelligence, Lt. (J.G..) Kerrey led his SEAL team on a mission to capture important members of the enemy's area political cadre known to be located on an island in the bay of Nha Trang. In order to surprise the enemy, he and his team scaled a 350-foot sheer cliff to place themselves above the ledge on which the enemy was located. Splitting his team in 2 elements and coordinating both, Lt. (J.G..) Kerrey led his men in the treacherous downward descent to the enemy's camp. Just as they neared the end of their descent, intense enemy fire was directed at them, and Lt. (J.G.) Kerrey received massive injuries from a grenade which exploded at his feet and threw him backward onto the jagged rocks. Although bleeding profusely and suffering great pain, he displayed outstanding courage and presence of mind in immediately directing his element's fire into the heart of the enemy camp. Utilizing his radioman, Lt. (J.G.) Kerrey called in the second element's fire support which caught the confused Viet Cong in a devastating crossfire. After successfully suppressing the enemy's fire, and although immobilized by his multiple wounds, he continued to maintain calm, superlative control as he ordered his team to secure and defend an extraction site. Lt. (J.G.) Kerrey resolutely directed his men, despite his near unconscious state, until he was eventually evacuated by helicopter. The havoc brought to the enemy by this very successful mission cannot be over-estimated. The enemy soldiers who were captured provided critical intelligence to the allied effort. Lt. (J.G.) Kerrey's courageous and inspiring leadership, valiant fighting spirit, and tenacious devotion to duty in the face of almost overwhelming opposition sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Joseph (Bob) Kerrey, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHAFZUOo8pY#)
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Recipient #37
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3330.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3330.jpg.html)
KINSMAN, THOMAS JAMES Rank: Private First Class: U.S. Army: Company B, 3d Battalion Division: 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry DivisionBorn: 4 March 1945, Renton, Wash. Entered Service At: Seattle, Wash.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/17/1969Accredited To: Seattle, WAPlace / Date: Near Vinh Long, Republic of Vietnam, 6 February 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty Sp4c. Kinsman (then Pfc.) distinguished himself in action in the afternoon while serving as a rifleman with Company B, on a reconnaissance-in-force mission. As his company was proceeding up a narrow canal in armored troops carriers, it came under sudden and intense rocket, automatic weapons and small-arms fire from a well entrenched Viet Cong force. The company immediately beached and began assaulting the enemy bunker complex. Hampered by exceedingly dense undergrowth which limited visibility to 10 meters, a group of 8 men became cut off from the main body of the company. As they were moving through heavy enemy fire to effect a link-up, an enemy soldier in a concealed position hurled a grenade into their midst. Sp4c. Kinsman immediately alerted his comrades of the danger, then unhesitatingly threw himself on the grenade and blocked the explosion with his body. As a result of his courageous action, he received severe head and chest wounds. Through his indomitable courage, complete disregard for his personal safety and profound concern for his fellow soldiers, Sp4c. Kinsman averted loss of life and injury to the other 7 men of his element. Sp4c. Kinsman's extraordinary heroism at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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Recipient #38
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3338.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3338.jpg.html)
LEE, HOWARD V. Rank: Captain: U.S. Marine Corps: Company E, 2d Battalion Division: 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division Born: 1 August 1933, New York, N.Y. Entered Service At: Dumfries, Va.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/25/1967Accredited To: Dumfries, VAPlace / Date: Near Cam Lo, Republic of Vietnam, 8 and 9 August 1966
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. A platoon of Maj. (then Capt.) Lee's company, while on an operation deep in enemy territory, was attacked and surrounded by a large Vietnamese force. Realizing that the unit had suffered numerous casualties, depriving it of effective leadership, and fully aware that the platoon was even then under heavy attack by the enemy, Maj Lee took 7 men and proceeded by helicopter to reinforce the beleaguered platoon. Maj. Lee disembarked from the helicopter with 2 of his men and, braving withering enemy fire, led them into the perimeter, where he fearlessly moved from position to position, directing and encouraging the overtaxed troops. The enemy then launched a massive attack with the full might of their forces. Although painfully wounded by fragments from an enemy grenade in several areas of his body, including his eye, Maj. Lee continued undauntedly throughout the night to direct the valiant defense, coordinate supporting fire, and apprise higher headquarters of the plight of the platoon. The next morning he collapsed from his wounds and was forced to relinquish command. However the small band of marines had held their position and repeatedly fought off many vicious enemy attacks for a grueling 6 hours until their evacuation was effected the following morning. Maj. Lee's actions saved his men from capture, minimized the loss of lives, and dealt the enemy a severe defeat. His indomitable fighting spirit, superb leadership, and great personal valor in the face of tremendous odds, reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service.
Howard Lee, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJF_dU-CPWQ#)
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Lee looks like the classic Marine, doesn't he?
::USA::
As for Kinsman, is there anything much hair-raising than a RIF mission in Vietnam? Ugh!
::USA::
Mixed feeling about Kerrey, applaud his service, not the biggest PITA in Democrat camp, but, not a fan of his choice, let us leave it at that. At least he wasn't a total grand-standing useless douche like Swiftboat Kerry!
::USA::
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Mixed feeling about Kerrey, applaud his service, not the biggest PITA in Democrat camp, but, not a fan of his choice, let us leave it at that. At least he wasn't a total grand-standing useless douche like Swiftboat Kerry!
::USA::
I don't think it was for lack of trying.
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Mixed feeling about Kerrey, applaud his service, not the biggest PITA in Democrat camp, but, not a fan of his choice, let us leave it at that. At least he wasn't a total grand-standing useless douche like Swiftboat Kerry!
::USA::
Couldn't agree more ------ ::cool::
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Recipient #39
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3341.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3341.jpg.html)
LEMON, PETER C. Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. Army: Company E, 2d Battalion Division: 8th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division Born: 5 June 1950, Toronto, Canada Entered Service At: Tawas City, Mich.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 06/14/1971Accredited To: Michigan Place / Date: Tay Ninh province, Republic of Vietnam, 1 April 1970
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Lemon (then Sp4c.), Company E, distinguished himself while serving as an assistant machine gunner during the defense of Fire Support Base Illingworth. When the base came under heavy enemy attack, Sgt. Lemon engaged a numerically superior enemy with machine gun and rifle fire from his defensive position until both weapons malfunctioned. He then used hand grenades to fend off the intensified enemy attack launched in his direction. After eliminating all but 1 of the enemy soldiers in the immediate vicinity, he pursued and disposed of the remaining soldier in hand-to-hand combat. Despite fragment wounds from an exploding grenade, Sgt. Lemon regained his position, carried a more seriously wounded comrade to an aid station, and, as he returned, was wounded a second time by enemy fire. Disregarding his personal injuries, he moved to his position through a hail of small arms and grenade fire. Sgt. Lemon immediately realized that the defensive sector was in danger of being overrun by the enemy and unhesitatingly assaulted the enemy soldiers by throwing hand grenades and engaging in hand-to-hand combat. He was wounded yet a third time, but his determined efforts successfully drove the enemy from the position. Securing an operable machine gun, Sgt. Lemon stood atop an embankment fully exposed to enemy fire, and placed effective fire upon the enemy until he collapsed from his multiple wounds and exhaustion. After regaining consciousness at the aid station, he refused medical evacuation until his more seriously wounded comrades had been evacuated. Sgt. Lemon's gallantry and extraordinary heroism, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Have only questioned one Medal recipient before, but have mixed feelings about this one, due to drugs [admittedly stoned on marijuana]. I will not presonally comment further, you can do a search simply by typing his name in and many sites appear for your review if interested.
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#39
Have only questioned one Medal recipient before, but have mixed feelings about this one, due to drugs [admittedly stoned on marijuana]. I will not presonally comment further, you can do a search simply by typing his name in and many sites appear for your review if interested.
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Having not been there under fire day in and day out and being forced to operate with an arm tied behind my back by idiots back in DC I cannot say what I would or would not be doing if I were there under similar circumstances. Well maybe I can...I'd probably be fragging the idiots thinking these orders are swell, thrown in the stockade and executed by my own people...if the camp didn't get overrun by the enemy and they slaughtered me first.
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Recipient #40
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3344.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3344.jpg.html)
LITEKY, ANGELO J. Rank: Captain: U.S. Army: Headquarters Company Division: 199th Infantry BrigadeBorn: 14 February 1931, Washington, D.C. Entered Service At: Fort Hamilton, N.Y.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 11/19/1969Accredited To: Fort Hamilton, NYPlace / Date: Near Phuoc-Lac, Bien Hoa province, Republic of Vietnam, 6 December 1967
Citation: Chaplain Liteky distinguished himself by exceptional heroism while serving with Company A, 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry, 199th Light Infantry Brigade. He was participating in a search and destroy operation when Company A came under intense fire from a battalion size enemy force. Momentarily stunned from the immediate encounter that ensued, the men hugged the ground for cover. Observing 2 wounded men, Chaplain Liteky moved to within 15 meters of an enemy machine gun position to reach them, placing himself between the enemy and the wounded men. When there was a brief respite in the fighting, he managed to drag them to the relative safety of the landing zone. Inspired by his courageous actions, the company rallied and began placing a heavy volume of fire upon the enemy's positions. In a magnificent display of courage and leadership, Chaplain Liteky began moving upright through the enemy fire, administering last rites to the dying and evacuating the wounded. Noticing another trapped and seriously wounded man, Chaplain Liteky crawled to his aid. Realizing that the wounded man was too heavy to carry, he rolled on his back, placed the man on his chest and through sheer determination and fortitude crawled back to the landing zone using his elbows and heels to push himself along. pausing for breath momentarily, he returned to the action and came upon a man entangled in the dense, thorny underbrush. Once more intense enemy fire was directed at him, but Chaplain Liteky stood his ground and calmly broke the vines and carried the man to the landing zone for evacuation. On several occasions when the landing zone was under small arms and rocket fire, Chaplain Liteky stood up in the face of hostile fire and personally directed the medivac helicopters into and out of the area. With the wounded safely evacuated, Chaplain Liteky returned to the perimeter, constantly encouraging and inspiring the men. Upon the unit's relief on the morning of 7 December 1967, it was discovered that despite painful wounds in the neck and foot, Chaplain Liteky had personally carried over 20 men to the landing zone for evacuation during the savage fighting. Through his indomitable inspiration and heroic actions, Chaplain Liteky saved the lives of a number of his comrades and enabled the company to repulse the enemy. Chaplain Liteky's actions reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.
Note; Interesting further info, plus more --
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines/060900-02.htm (http://www.commondreams.org/headlines/060900-02.htm)
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::praying:: ::USA::
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Recipient # 41
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3345_zps092ee1f8.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3345_zps092ee1f8.jpg.html)
LITTRELL, GARY LEE Rank: Sergeant First Class: U.S. Army: Advisory Team 21 Division: U.S. Army Support Command Born: 26 October 1944, Henderson, Ky. Entered Service At: Los Angeles, Calif.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: Accredited To: Place / Date: Kontum province, Republic of Vietnam, 4-8 April 1970
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sfc. Littrell, U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, Advisory Team 21, distinguished himself while serving as a Light Weapons Infantry Advisor with the 23d Battalion, 2d Ranger Group, Republic of Vietnam Army, near Dak Seang. After establishing a defensive perimeter on a hill on April 4, the battalion was subjected to an intense enemy mortar attack which killed the Vietnamese commander, 1 advisor, and seriously wounded all the advisors except Sfc. Littrell. During the ensuing 4 days, Sfc Littrell exhibited near superhuman endurance as he single-handedly bolstered the besieged battalion. Repeatedly abandoning positions of relative safety, he directed artillery and air support by day and marked the unit's location by night, despite the heavy, concentrated enemy fire. His dauntless will instilled in the men of the 23d Battalion a deep desire to resist. Assault after assault was repulsed as the battalion responded to the extraordinary leadership and personal example exhibited by Sfc. Littrell as he continuously moved to those points most seriously threatened by the enemy, redistributed ammunition, strengthened faltering defenses, cared for the wounded and shouted encouragement to the Vietnamese in their own language. When the beleaguered battalion was finally ordered to withdraw, numerous ambushes were encountered. Sfc. Littrell repeatedly prevented widespread disorder by directing air strikes to within 50 meters of their position. Through his indomitable courage and complete disregard for his safety, he averted excessive loss of life and injury to the members of the battalion. The sustained extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by Sfc. Littrell over an extended period of time were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him and the U.S. Army.
Gary Littrell, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_9K11hViWA#)
Note; This you tube video is one of the best IMO. Maybe because of his forth night rememberances, and honesty.
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Way to go, Sarge!
::USA::
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Recipient #42
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3346.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3346.jpg.html)
LIVINGSTON, JAMES E. Rank: Captain: U.S. Marine Corps: Company E, 2d Battalion Division: 4th Marines, 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade Born: 12 January 1940, Towns, Telfair County, Ga. Entered Service At: McRae, Ga.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: Place / Date: Dai Do, Republic of Vietnam, 2 May 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Commanding Officer, Company E, in action against enemy forces. Company E launched a determined assault on the heavily fortified village of Dai Do, which had been seized by the enemy on the preceding evening isolating a marine company from the remainder of the battalion. Skillfully employing screening agents, Capt. Livingston maneuvered his men to assault positions across 500 meters of dangerous open rice paddy while under intense enemy fire. Ignoring hostile rounds impacting near him, he fearlessly led his men in a savage assault against enemy emplacements within the village. While adjusting supporting arms fire, Capt. Livingston moved to the points of heaviest resistance, shouting words of encouragement to his marines, directing their fire, and spurring the dwindling momentum of the attack on repeated occasions. Although twice painfully wounded by grenade fragments, he refused medical treatment and courageously led his men in the destruction of over 100 mutually supporting bunkers, driving the remaining enemy from their positions, and relieving the pressure on the stranded marine company. As the 2 companies consolidated positions and evacuated casualties, a third company passed through the friendly lines launching an assault on the adjacent village of Dinh To, only to be halted by a furious counterattack of an enemy battalion. Swiftly assessing the situation and disregarding the heavy volume of enemy fire, Capt. Livingston boldly maneuvered the remaining effective men of his company forward, joined forces with the heavily engaged marines, and halted the enemy's counterattack Wounded a third time and unable to walk, he steadfastly remained in the dangerously exposed area, deploying his men to more tenable positions and supervising the evacuation of casualties. Only when assured of the safety of his men did he allow himself to be evacuated. Capt. Livingston's gallant actions uphold the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service.
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That didn't read like a small engagement.
Oorah!!! ::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient # 41
Wow....What a story!
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Recipient #43 Finally, I guess maintance is done.
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3350.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3350.jpg.html)
LYNCH, ALLEN JAMES Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. Army: Company D, 1st Battalion Division: 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division Born: 28 October 1945, Chicago, Ill. Entered Service At: Chicago, Ill.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: Chicago, ILPlace / Date: Near My An (2), Binh Dinh province, Republic of Vietnam, 15 December 1967
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Lynch (then Sp4c.) distinguished himself while serving as a radio telephone operator with Company D. While serving in the forward element on an operation near the village of My An, his unit became heavily engaged with a numerically superior enemy force. Quickly and accurately assessing the situation, Sgt. Lynch provided his commander with information which subsequently proved essential to the unit's successful actions. Observing 3 wounded comrades Lying exposed to enemy fire, Sgt. Lynch dashed across 50 meters of open ground through a withering hail of enemy fire to administer aid. Reconnoitering a nearby trench for a covered position to protect the wounded from intense hostile fire, he killed 2 enemy soldiers at point blank range. With the trench cleared, he unhesitatingly returned to the fire-swept area 3 times to carry the wounded men to safety. When his company was forced to withdraw by the superior firepower of the enemy, Sgt. Lynch remained to aid his comrades at the risk of his life rather than abandon them. Alone, he defended his isolated position for 2 hours against the advancing enemy. Using only his rifle and a grenade, he stopped them just short of his trench, killing 5. Again, disregarding his safety in the face of withering hostile fire, he crossed 70 meters of exposed terrain 5 times to carry his wounded comrades to a more secure area. Once he had assured their comfort and safety, Sgt. Lynch located the counterattacking friendly company to assist in directing the attack and evacuating the 3 casualties. His gallantry at the risk of his life is in the highest traditions of the military service, Sgt. Lynch has reflected great credit on himself, the 12th Cavalry, and the U.S. Army.
Allen Lynch, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFedNF7qMZs#)
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Recipient # 44 Another from la Drang Valley, Vietnam - "We Were Soldiers"
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3351.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3351.jpg.html)
MARM, WALTER JOSEPH, JR. Rank: Second Lieutenant: U.S. Army: Company A, 1st Battalion Division: 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division Born: 20 November 1941, Washington, Pa. Entered Service At: Pittsburgh, Pa.G.O. Number: 7Date of Issue: 12/19/1966Accredited To: Pittsburgh, PAPlace / Date: Vicinity of la Drang Valley, Republic of Vietnam, 14 November 1965
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. As a platoon leader in the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), 1st Lt. Marm demonstrated indomitable courage during a combat operation. His company was moving through the valley to relieve a friendly unit surrounded by an enemy force of estimated regimental size. 1st Lt. Marm led his platoon through withering fire until they were finally forced to take cover. Realizing that his platoon could not hold very long, and seeing four enemy soldiers moving into his position, he moved quickly under heavy fire and annihilated all 4. Then, seeing that his platoon was receiving intense fire from a concealed machine gun, he deliberately exposed himself to draw its fire. Thus locating its position, he attempted to destroy it with an antitank weapon. Although he inflicted casualties, the weapon did not silence the enemy fire. Quickly, disregarding the intense fire directed on him and his platoon, he charged 30 meters across open ground, and hurled grenades into the enemy position, killing some of the 8 insurgents manning it. Although severely wounded, when his grenades were expended, armed with only a rifle, he continued the momentum of his assault on the position and killed the remainder. His selfless actions reduced the fire on his platoon, broke the enemy assault, and rallied his unit to continue toward the accomplishment of this mission. 1st Lt. Marm's gallantry on the battlefield and his extraordinary intrepidity at the risk of his life are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
Walter Marm, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7-U0FBiYUU#)
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A common thread is the humility these people have, the clear sense that as Malm put it they are "caretakers" of this honor, that there are so many who did their job and did great things who are not getting the recognition they deserve, that many of those did not make it back.
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient # 45
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/2865.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/2865.jpg.html)
MAXWELL, ROBERT D. Rank: Technician Fifth Grade: U.S. Army: Division: 7th Infantry, 3d Infantry Division Born: October 26, 1920, Boise, Idaho Entered Service At: Crestwell, COG.O. Number: 24Date of Issue: 05/12/1945Accredited To: Crestwell, COPlace / Date: Near Besancon, France, 7 September 1944
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty on 7 September 1944, near Besancon, France. Technician 5th Grade Maxwell and 3 other soldiers, armed only with .45 caliber automatic pistols, defended the battalion observation post against an overwhelming onslaught by enemy infantrymen in approximately platoon strength, supported by 20mm. flak and machinegun fire, who had infiltrated through the battalion's forward companies and were attacking the observation post with machinegun, machine pistol, and grenade fire at ranges as close as 10 yards. Despite a hail of fire from automatic weapons and grenade launchers, Technician 5th Grade Maxwell aggressively fought off advancing enemy elements and, by his calmness, tenacity, and fortitude, inspired his fellows to continue the unequal struggle. When an enemy hand grenade was thrown in the midst of his squad, Technician 5th Grade Maxwell unhesitatingly hurled himself squarely upon it, using his blanket and his unprotected body to absorb the full force of the explosion. This act of instantaneous heroism permanently maimed Technician 5th Grade Maxwell, but saved the lives of his comrades in arms and facilitated maintenance of vital military communications during the temporary withdrawal of the battalion's forward headquarters.
only audio available
http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-499550 (http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-499550)
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Recipient # 46
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/MeyerD_zps71e8374f.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/MeyerD_zps71e8374f.jpg.html)
MEYER, DAKOTA Rank: Sergeant: U.S. Marine Corps: Embedded Training Team 2-8 Division: Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7 Born: 26 June 1988, Columbia, KY Entered Service At: Louisville, KYG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 09/15/2011Accredited To: KentuckyPlace / Date: 8 September 2009, Kunar Province, Afghanistan
Citation: Corporal Meyer maintained security at a patrol rally point while other members of his team moved on foot with two platoons of Afghan National Army and Border Police into the village of Ganjgal for a pre-dawn meeting with village elders. Moving into the village, the patrol was ambushed by more than 50 enemy fighters firing rocket propelled grenades, mortars, and machine guns from houses and fortified positions on the slopes above. Hearing over the radio that four U.S. team members were cut off, Corporal Meyer seized the initiative. With a fellow Marine driving, Corporal Meyer took the exposed gunner's position in a gun-truck as they drove down the steeply terraced terrain in a daring attempt to disrupt the enemy attack and locate the trapped U.S. team. Disregarding intense enemy fire now concentrated on their lone vehicle, Corporal Meyer killed a number of enemy fighters with the mounted machine guns and his rifle, some at near point blank range, as he and his driver made three solo trips into the ambush area. During the first two trips, he and his driver evacuated two dozen Afghan soldiers, many of whom were wounded. When one machine gun became inoperable, he directed a return to the rally point to switch to another gun-truck for a third trip into the ambush area where his accurate fire directly supported the remaining U.S. personnel and Afghan soldiers fighting their way out of the ambush. Despite a shrapnel wound to his arm, Corporal Meyer made two more trips into the ambush area in a third gun-truck accompanied by four other Afghan vehicles to recover more wounded Afghan soldiers and search for the missing U.S. team members. Still under heavy enemy fire, he dismounted the vehicle on the fifth trip and moved on foot to locate and recover the bodies of his team members. Corporal Meyer's daring initiative and bold fighting spirit throughout the 6-hour battle significantly disrupted the enemy's attack and inspired the members of the combined force to fight on. His unwavering courage and steadfast devotion to his U.S. and Afghan comrades in the face of almost certain death reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
I will not post it here possibly degrading the recipients, but if interested I am setting another site for this reveiw.
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Recipient #47 {The first Medal of Honor kept top secret for awhile}
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3160.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3160.jpg.html)
MIYAMURA, HIROSHI H. Rank: Corporal: U.S. Army: Company HDivision: 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division Born: October 6, 1925, Gallup, N. Mex. Entered Service At: Gallup, N. Mex.G.O. Number: 85Date of Issue: 10/27/1953Accredited To: Gallup, NMPlace / Date: Near Taejon-ni, Korea, 24 and 25 April 1951
Citation: Cpl. Miyamura, a member of Company H, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. On the night of 24 April, Company H was occupying a defensive position when the enemy fanatically attacked threatening to overrun the position. Cpl. Miyamura, a machine gun squad leader, aware of the imminent danger to his men unhesitatingly jumped from his shelter wielding his bayonet in close hand-to-hand combat killing approximately 10 of the enemy. Returning to his position, he administered first aid to the wounded and directed their evacuation. As another savage assault hit the line, he manned his machine gun and delivered withering fire until his ammunition was expended. He ordered the squad to withdraw while he stayed behind to render the gun inoperative. He then bayoneted his way through infiltrated enemy soldiers to a second gun emplacement and assisted in its operation. When the intensity of the attack necessitated the withdrawal of the company Cpl. Miyamura ordered his men to fall back while he remained to cover their movement. He killed more than 50 of the enemy before his ammunition was depleted and he was severely wounded. He maintained his magnificent stand despite his painful wounds, continuing to repel the attack until his position was overrun. When last seen he was fighting ferociously against an overwhelming number of enemy soldiers. Cpl. Miyamura's indomitable heroism and consummate devotion to duty reflect the utmost glory on himself and uphold the illustrious traditions on the military service.
He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on April 24–25, 1951, near Taejon-ni, Korea, while serving as a corporal in the 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. His was the first Medal of Honor to be classified Top Secret. Miyamura was captured by the North Koreans and held as a prisoner of war immediately after the actions that led to his award. As Brigadier General Ralph Osborne explained to Miyamura and a group of reporters upon notifying them of his medal, "If the Reds knew what he had done to a good number of their soldiers just before he was taken prisoner, they might have taken revenge on this young man. He might not have come back." Following his release on August 20, 1953, he was repatriated to the United States and honorably discharged from the military shortly thereafter. His medal was presented to him by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in October 1953 at the White House.
Note; Served WWII from Jan.1945 entered reserves, called up for Korea - POW after action earning MOH; POW for 28 months.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hiroshi_H._Miyamura (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hiroshi_H._Miyamura)
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Recipient # 48
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3161.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3161.jpg.html)
MIZE, OLA L. Rank: Corporal : U.S. Army: Company KDivision: 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division Born: August 28, 1931, Albertville, AL Entered Service At: Gadsden, Ala.G.O. Number: 70Date of Issue: 12/06/1966Accredited To: Place / Date: Near Surang-ni, Korea, 10 to 11 June 1953
Citation: M/Sgt. Mize, a member of Company K, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. Company K was committed to the defense of "Outpost Harry", a strategically valuable position, when the enemy launched a heavy attack. Learning that a comrade on a friendly listening post had been wounded he moved through the intense barrage, accompanied by a medical aid man, and rescued the wounded soldier. On returning to the main position he established an effective defense system and inflicted heavy casualties against attacks from determined enemy assault forces which had penetrated into trenches within the outpost area. During his fearless actions he was blown down by artillery and grenade blasts 3 times but each time he dauntlessly returned to his position, tenaciously fighting and successfully repelling hostile attacks. When enemy onslaughts ceased he took his few men and moved from bunker to bunker, firing through apertures and throwing grenades at the foe, neutralizing their positions. When an enemy soldier stepped out behind a comrade, prepared to fire, M/Sgt. Mize killed him, saving the life of his fellow soldier. After rejoining the platoon, moving from man to man, distributing ammunition, and shouting words of encouragement he observed a friendly machine gun position overrun. He immediately fought his way to the position, killing 10 of the enemy and dispersing the remainder. Fighting back to the command post, and finding several friendly wounded there, he took a position to protect them. Later, securing a radio, he directed friendly artillery fire upon the attacking enemy's routes of approach. At dawn he helped regroup for a counterattack which successfully drove the enemy from the outpost. M/Sgt. Mize's valorous conduct and unflinching courage reflect lasting glory upon himself and uphold the noble traditions of the military service.
Ola Mize, Medal of Honor, Korean War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jmNNciM0aA#)
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Korea was downright hideous in too many instances.
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient # 49
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3365.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3365.jpg.html)
MODRZEJEWSKI, ROBERT J. Rank: Captain: U.S. Marine Corps: Company K, 3d BattalionDivision: 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division Born: 3 July 1934, Milwaukee, Wis. Entered Service At: Milwaukee, Wis.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/12/1968Accredited To: Milwaukee, WIPlace / Date: Republic of Vietnam, 15 to 18 July 1966
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. On 15 July, during Operation HASTINGS, Company K was landed in an enemy-infested jungle area to establish a blocking position at a major enemy trail network. Shortly after landing, the company encountered a reinforced enemy platoon in a well-organized, defensive position. Maj. Modrzejewski led his men in the successful seizure of the enemy redoubt, which contained large quantities of ammunition and supplies. That evening, a numerically superior enemy force counterattacked in an effort to retake the vital supply area, thus setting the pattern of activity for the next 2 1/2 days. In the first series of attacks, the enemy assaulted repeatedly in overwhelming numbers but each time was repulsed by the gallant marines. The second night, the enemy struck in battalion strength, and Maj. Modrzejewski was wounded in this intensive action which was fought at close quarters. Although exposed to enemy fire, and despite his painful wounds, he crawled 200 meters to provide critically needed ammunition to an exposed element of his command and was constantly present wherever the fighting was heaviest, despite numerous casualties, a dwindling supply of ammunition and the knowledge that they were surrounded, he skillfully directed artillery fire to within a few meter* of his position and courageously inspired the efforts of his company in repelling the aggressive enemy attack. On 18 July, Company K was attacked by a regimental-size enemy force. Although his unit was vastly outnumbered and weakened by the previous fighting, Maj. Modrzejewski reorganized his men and calmly moved among them to encourage and direct their efforts to heroic limits as they fought to overcome the vicious enemy onslaught. Again he called in air and artillery strikes at close range with devastating effect on the enemy, which together with the bold and determined fighting of the men of Company K, repulsed the fanatical attack of the larger North Vietnamese force. His unparalleled personal heroism and indomitable leadership inspired his men to a significant victory over the enemy force and reflected great credit upon himself, the Marine Corps, and the U.S. Naval Service.
Robert Modrzejewski, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdJsFcDjxPQ#)
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Recipient #50
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3374.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3374.jpg.html)
NORRIS, THOMAS R. Rank: Lieutenant: U.S. Navy: Strategic Technical Directorate Assitance Team Division: U.S. Army Support Command Born: 14 January 1944, Jacksonville, Fla. Entered Service At: Silver Spring, Md.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/06/1976Accredited To: Silver Springs, MDPlace / Date: Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, 10 to 13 April 1972
Citation: Lt. Norris completed an unprecedented ground rescue of 2 downed pilots deep within heavily controlled enemy territory in Quang Tri Province. Lt. Norris, on the night of 10 April, led a 5-man patrol through 2,000 meters of heavily controlled enemy territory, located 1 of the downed pilots at daybreak, and returned to the Forward Operating Base (FOB). On 11 April, after a devastating mortar and rocket attack on the small FOB, Lt. Norris led a 3-man team on 2 unsuccessful rescue attempts for the second pilot. On the afternoon of the 12th, a forward air controller located the pilot and notified Lt. Norris. Dressed in fishermen disguises and using a sampan, Lt. Norris and 1 Vietnamese traveled throughout that night and found the injured pilot at dawn. Covering the pilot with bamboo and vegetation, they began the return journey, successfully evading a North Vietnamese patrol. Approaching the FOB, they came under heavy machinegun fire. Lt. Norris called in an air strike which provided suppression fire and a smoke screen, allowing the rescue party to reach the FOB. By his outstanding display of decisive leadership, undaunted courage, and selfless dedication in the face of extreme danger, Lt. Norris enhanced the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Thomas Norris, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gS57YKGHDKc#)
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God bless them all. ::USA::
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Indeed. Familiar with the Norris story, that Major. Robert ordeal, ufda, hairy!
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Recipient # 51
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3378.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3378.jpg.html)
O'MALLEY, ROBERT E. Rank: Corporal: U.S. Marine Corps: Company 1, 3d BattalionDivision: 3d Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division Born: 3 June 1943, Woodside, NY Entered Service At: New York, N.Y.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 12/06/1966Accredited To: Place / Date: Near An Cu'ong 2, South Vietnam, 18 August 1965
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the communist (Viet Cong) forces at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While leading his squad in the assault against a strongly entrenched enemy force, his unit came under intense small-arms fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Sgt. O'Malley raced across an open rice paddy to a trench line where the enemy forces were located. Jumping into the trench, he attacked the Viet Cong with his rifle and grenades, and singly killed 8 of the enemy. He then led his squad to the assistance of an adjacent marine unit which was suffering heavy casualties. Continuing to press forward, he reloaded his weapon and fired with telling effect into the enemy emplacement. He personally assisted in the evacuation of several wounded marines, and again regrouping the remnants of his squad, he returned to the point of the heaviest fighting. Ordered to an evacuation point by an officer, Sgt. O'Malley gathered his besieged and badly wounded squad, and boldly led them under fire to a helicopter for withdrawal. Although 3 times wounded in this encounter, and facing imminent death from a fanatic and determined enemy, he steadfastly refused evacuation and continued to cover his squad's boarding of the helicopters while, from an exposed position, he delivered fire against the enemy until his wounded men were evacuated. Only then, with his last mission accomplished, did he permit himself to be removed from the battlefield. By his valor, leadership, and courageous efforts in behalf of his comrades, he served as an inspiration to all who observed him, and reflected the highest credit upon the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service.
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Recipient # 52
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3380.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3380.jpg.html)
PATTERSON, ROBERT MARTIN Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. Army: Troop B, 2d Squadron Division: 17th Cavalry Born: 16 April 1948, Durham, N.C. Entered Service At: Raleigh, N.C.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/10/1969Accredited To: Raleigh, NCPlace / Date: Near La Chu, Republic of Vietnam, 6 May 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Patterson (then Sp4c.) distinguished himself while serving as a fire team leader of the 3d Platoon, Troop B, during an assault against a North Vietnamese Army battalion which was entrenched in a heavily fortified position. When the leading squad of the 3d Platoon was pinned down by heavy interlocking automatic weapon and rocket propelled grenade fire from 2 enemy bunkers, Sgt. Patterson and the 2 other members of his assault team moved forward under a hail of enemy fire to destroy the bunkers with grenade and machinegun fire. Observing that his comrades were being fired on from a third enemy bunker covered by enemy gunners in l-man spider holes, Sgt. Patterson, with complete disregard for his safety and ignoring the warning of his comrades that he was moving into a bunker complex, assaulted and destroyed the position. Although exposed to intensive small arm and grenade fire from the bunkers and their mutually supporting emplacements. Sgt. Patterson continued his assault upon the bunkers which were impeding the advance of his unit. Sgt. Patterson single-handedly destroyed by rifle and grenade fire 5 enemy bunkers, killed 8 enemy soldiers and captured 7 weapons. His dauntless courage and heroism inspired his platoon to resume the attack and to penetrate the enemy defensive position. Sgt. Patterson's action at the risk of his life has reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Robert Patterson, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNoJU4NXXcw#)
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Recipient # 53
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3479_zps233b87b1.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3479_zps233b87b1.jpg.html)
PETRY, LEROY A. Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Army: Company D Division: 2d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment Born: 29 July 1979, Santa Fe, NM Entered Service At: New MexicoG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 07/12/2011Accredited To: New MexicoPlace / Date: 26 May 2008, Paktya Province, Afghanistan
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: Staff Sergeant Leroy A. Petry distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with an armed enemy in the vicinity of Paktya Province, Afghanistan, on May 26, 2008. As a Weapons Squad Leader with D Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Staff Sergeant Petry moved to clear the courtyard of a house that potentially contained high-value combatants. While crossing the courtyard, Staff Sergeant Petry and another Ranger were engaged and wounded by automatic weapons fire from enemy fighters. Still under enemy fire, and wounded in both legs, Staff Sergeant Petry led the other Ranger to cover. He then reported the situation and engaged the enemy with a hand grenade, providing suppression as another Ranger moved to his position. The enemy quickly responded by maneuvering closer and throwing grenades. The first grenade explosion knocked his two fellow Rangers to the ground and wounded both with shrapnel. A second grenade then landed only a few feet away from them. Instantly realizing the danger, Staff Sergeant Petry, unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his safety, deliberately and selflessly moved forward, picked up the grenade, and in an effort to clear the immediate threat, threw the grenade away from his fellow Rangers. As he was releasing the grenade it detonated, amputating his right hand at the wrist and further injuring him with multiple shrapnel wounds. Although picking up and throwing the live grenade grievously wounded Staff Sergeant Petry, his gallant act undeniably saved his fellow Rangers from being severely wounded or killed. Despite the severity of his wounds, Staff Sergeant Petry continued to maintain the presence of mind to place a tourniquet on his right wrist before communicating the situation by radio in order to coordinate support for himself and his fellow wounded Rangers. Staff Sergeant Petry's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, 75th Ranger Regiment, and the United States Army.
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Recipient # 54
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3389.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3389.jpg.html)
PITTMAN, RICHARD A. Rank: Lance Corporal: U.S. Marine Corps: Company 1, 3d Battalion Division: 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division Born: 26 May 1945, French Camp, San Joaquin, Calif. Entered Service At: Stockton, Calif.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1968Accredited To: Stockton, CAPlace / Date: Near the Demilitarized Zone, Republic of Vietnam, 24 July 1966
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While Company 1 was conducting an operation along the axis of a narrow jungle trail, the leading company elements suffered numerous casualties when they suddenly came under heavy fire from a well concealed and numerically superior enemy force. Hearing the engaged marines' calls for more firepower, Sgt. Pittman quickly exchanged his rifle for a machinegun and several belts of ammunition, left the relative safety of his platoon, and unhesitatingly rushed forward to aid his comrades. Taken under intense enemy small-arms fire at point blank range during his advance, he returned the fire, silencing the enemy position. As Sgt. Pittman continued to forge forward to aid members of the leading platoon, he again came under heavy fire from 2 automatic weapons which he promptly destroyed. Learning that there were additional wounded marines 50 yards further along the trail, he braved a withering hail of enemy mortar and small-arms fire to continue onward. As he reached the position where the leading marines had fallen, he was suddenly confronted with a bold frontal attack by 30 to 40 enemy. Totally disregarding his safety, he calmly established a position in the middle of the trail and raked the advancing enemy with devastating machinegun fire. His weapon rendered ineffective, he picked up an enemy submachinegun and, together with a pistol seized from a fallen comrade, continued his lethal fire until the enemy force had withdrawn. Having exhausted his ammunition except for a grenade which he hurled at the enemy, he then rejoined his platoon. Sgt. Pittman's daring initiative, bold fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty inflicted casualties, disrupted the enemy attack and saved the lives of many of his wounded comrades. His personal valor at grave risk to himself reflects the highest credit upon himself, the Marine Corps, and the U.S. Naval Service.
Richard Pittman, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTTqirWSwiE#)
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Recipient # 55
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3397_zps79f464a0.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3397_zps79f464a0.jpg.html)
RASCON, ALFRED V. Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. Army: Division: 503rd Infantry,173d Airborne Brigade Born: 1945, Chihuahua, Mexico Departed: NoEntered Service At: G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 02/08/2000Accredited To: Place / Date: Republic of Vietnam, 16 March 1966
Citation: Specialist Four Alfred Rascon, distinguished himself by a series of extraordinarily courageous acts on 16 March 1966, while assigned as a medic to the Reconnaissance Platoon, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). While moving to reinforce its sister battalion under intense enemy attack, the Reconnaissance Platoon came under heavy fire from a numerically superior enemy force. The intense enemy fire from crew-served weapons and grenades severely wounded several point squad soldiers. Specialist Rascon, ignoring directions to stay behind shelter until covering fire could be provided, made his way forward. He repeatedly tried to reach the severely wounded point machine-gunner laying on an open enemy trail, but was driven back each time by the withering fire. Disregarding his personal safety, he jumped to his feet, ignoring flying bullets and exploding grenades to reach his comrade. To protect him from further wounds, he intentionally placed his body between the soldier and enemy machine guns, sustaining numerous shrapnel injuries and a serious wound to the hip. Disregarding his serious wounds he dragged the larger soldier from the fire-raked trail. Hearing the second machine-gunner yell that he was running out of ammunition, Specialist Rascon, under heavy enemy fire crawled back to the wounded machine-gunner stripping him of his bandoleers of ammunition, giving them to the machine-gunner who continued his suppressive fire. Specialist Rascon fearing the abandoned machine gun, its ammunition and spare barrel could fall into enemy hands made his way to retrieve them. On the way, he was wounded in the face and torso by grenade fragments, but disregarded these wounds to recover the abandoned machine gun, ammunition and spare barrel items, enabling another soldier to provide added suppressive fire to the pinned-down squad. In searching for the wounded, he saw the point grenadier being wounded by small arms fire and grenades being thrown at him. Disregarding his own life and his numerous wounds, Specialist Rascon reached and covered him with his body absorbing the blasts from the exploding grenades, and saving the soldier's life, but sustaining additional wounds to his body. While making his way to the wounded point squad leader, grenades were hurled at the sergeant. Again, in complete disregard for his own life, he reached and covered the sergeant with his body, absorbing the full force of the grenade explosions. Once more Specialist Rascon was critically wounded by shrapnel, but disregarded his own wounds to continue to search and aid the wounded. Severely wounded, he remained on the battlefield, inspiring his fellow soldiers to continue the battle. After the enemy broke contact, he disregarded aid for himself, instead treating the wounded and directing their evacuation. Only after being placed on the evacuation helicopter did he allow aid to be given to him. Specialist Rascon's extraordinary valor in the face of deadly enemy fire, his heroism in rescuing the wounded, and his gallantry by repeatedly risking his own life for his fellow soldiers are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Alfred Rascon, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_EY7MXFuKM#)
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Luck, cool under fire, blind fighting rage...all of the above and then some...amazing what people do, isn't it?
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Recipient # 56
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3399_zpscb960a3c.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3399_zpscb960a3c.jpg.html)
RAY, RONALD ERIC Rank: 1st Lieutenant: U.S. Army: Company A, 2d Battalion Division: 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division Born: 7 December 1941, Cordelle, Ga.Departed: No Entered Service At: Atlanta, Ga.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 05/14/1970Accredited To: Atlanta, GAPlace / Date: la Drang Valley, Republic of Vietnam, 19 June 1966
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Capt. Ray distinguished himself while serving as a platoon leader with Company A. When 1 of his ambush patrols was attacked by an estimated reinforced Viet Cong company, Capt. Ray organized a reaction force and quickly moved through 2 kilometers of mountainous jungle terrain to the contact area. After breaking through the hostile lines to reach the beleaguered patrol, Capt. Ray began directing the reinforcement of the site. When an enemy position pinned down 3 of his men with a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire, he silenced the emplacement with a grenade and killed 4 Viet Cong with his rifle fire. As medics were moving a casualty toward a sheltered position, they began receiving intense hostile fire. While directing suppressive fire on the enemy position, Capt. Ray moved close enough to silence the enemy with a grenade. A few moments later Capt. Ray saw an enemy grenade land, unnoticed, near 2 of his men. Without hesitation or regard for his safety he dove between the grenade and the men, thus shielding them from the explosion while receiving wounds in his exposed feet and legs. He immediately sustained additional wounds in his legs from an enemy machinegun, but nevertheless he silenced the emplacement with another grenade. Although suffering great pain from his wounds, Capt. Ray continued to direct his men, providing the outstanding courage and leadership they vitally needed, and prevented their annihilation by successfully leading them from their surrounded position. Only after assuring that his platoon was no longer in immediate danger did he allow himself to be evacuated for medical treatment. By his gallantry at the risk of his life in the highest traditions of the military service, Capt. Ray has reflected great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Ronald Ray, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ceqt65np7nM#)
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Recipient #57
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3402_zpsb68427a7.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3402_zpsb68427a7.jpg.html)
ROBERTS, GORDON R. Rank: Specialist Fourth Class: U.S. Army: Company B, 1st Battalion Division: 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division Born: 14 June 1950, Middletown, Ohio Departed: NoEntered Service At: Cincinnati, OhioG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/02/1971Accredited To: Cincinnati, OHPlace / Date: Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam, 11 July 1969
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Roberts distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman in Company B, during combat operations. Sgt. Roberts' platoon was maneuvering along a ridge to attack heavily fortified enemy bunker positions which had pinned down an adjoining friendly company. As the platoon approached the enemy positions, it was suddenly pinned down by heavy automatic weapons and grenade fire from camouflaged enemy fortifications atop the overlooking hill. Seeing his platoon immobilized and in danger of failing in its mission, Sgt. Roberts crawled rapidly toward the closest enemy bunker. With complete disregard for his safety, he leaped to his feet and charged the bunker, firing as he ran. Despite the intense enemy fire directed at him, Sgt. Roberts silenced the 2-man bunker. Without hesitation, Sgt. Roberts continued his l-man assault on a second bunker. As he neared the second bunker, a burst of enemy fire knocked his rifle from his hands. Sgt. Roberts picked up a rifle dropped by a comrade and continued his assault, silencing the bunker. He continued his charge against a third bunker and destroyed it with well-thrown hand grenades. Although Sgt. Roberts was now cut off from his platoon, he continued his assault against a fourth enemy emplacement. He fought through a heavy hail of fire to join elements of the adjoining company which had been pinned down by the enemy fire. Although continually exposed to hostile fire, he assisted in moving wounded personnel from exposed positions on the hilltop to an evacuation area before returning to his unit. By his gallant and selfless actions, Sgt. Roberts contributed directly to saving the lives of his comrades and served as an inspiration to his fellow soldiers in the defeat of the enemy force. Sgt. Roberts' extraordinary heroism in action at the risk of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Gordon Roberts, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rH8qK2_bUPE#)
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Recipient #58
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3482_zps6d9aaeb2.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3482_zps6d9aaeb2.jpg.html)
ROMESHA, CLINTON L. Rank: Staff Sergeant: U.S. Army: 3rd Squadron, 61st Calvary Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team Division: 4th Infantry Born: August 17, 1981 / Lake City, CA Departed: No Entered Service At: CaliforniaG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 02/11/2013Accredited To: CaliforniaPlace / Date: Outpost Keating, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan October 3, 2009
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Section Leader with Bravo Troop, 3d Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during combat operations against an armed enemy at Combat Outpost Keating, Kamdesh District, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan on 3 October 2009. On that morning, Staff Sergeant Romesha and his comrades awakened to an attack by an estimated 300 enemy fighters occupying the high ground on all four sides of the complex, employing concentrated fire from recoilless rifles, rocket propelled grenades, anti-aircraft machine guns, mortars and small arms fire. Staff Sergeant Romesha moved uncovered under intense enemy fire to conduct a reconnaissance of the battlefield and seek reinforcements from the barracks before returning to action with the support of an assistant gunner. Staff Sergeant Romesha took out an enemy machine gun team and, while engaging a second, the generator he was using for cover was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade, inflicting him with shrapnel wounds. Undeterred by his injuries, Staff Sergeant Romesha continued to fight and upon the arrival of another soldier to aid him and the assistant gunner, he again rushed through the exposed avenue to assemble additional soldiers. Staff Sergeant Romesha then mobilized a five-man team and returned to the fight equipped with a sniper rifle. With complete disregard for his own safety, Staff Sergeant Romesha continually exposed himself to heavy enemy fire, as he moved confidently about the battlefield engaging and destroying multiple enemy targets, including three Taliban fighters who had breached the combat outpost?s perimeter. While orchestrating a successful plan to secure and reinforce key points of the battlefield, Staff Sergeant Romesha maintained radio communication with the tactical operations center. As the enemy forces attacked with even greater ferocity, unleashing a barrage of rocket-propelled grenades and recoilless rifle rounds, Staff Sergeant Romesha identified the point of attack and directed air support to destroy over 30 enemy fighters. After receiving reports that seriously injured soldiers were at a distant battle position, Staff Sergeant Romesha and his team provided covering fire to allow the injured soldiers to safely reach the aid station. Upon receipt of orders to proceed to the next objective, his team pushed forward 100 meters under overwhelming enemy fire to recover and prevent the enemy fighters from taking the bodies of the fallen comrades. Staff Sergeant Romesha?s heroic actions throughout the day-long battle were critical in suppressing an enemy that had far greater numbers. His extraordinary efforts gave Bravo Troop the opportunity to regroup, reorganize and prepare for the counterattack that allowed the Troop to account for its personnel and secure Combat Post Keating. Staff Sergeant Romesha?s discipline and extraordinary heroism above and beyond the call of duty reflect great credit upon himself, Bravo Troop, 3d Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division and the United States Army.
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Recipient # 59
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-army.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-army.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/2974_zps9c3eb2c1.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/2974_zps9c3eb2c1.jpg.html)
ROSS, WILBURN K. Rank: Private: U.S. Army: Company GDivision: 30th Infantry Born: 12 May 1922, Strunk, KY Departed: NoEntered Service At: Strunk, Ky.G.O. Number: 30Date of Issue: 04/23/1945Accredited To: Strunk, KYPlace / Date: Near St. Jacques, France, 30 October 1944
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty near St. Jacques, France. At 11:30 a.m. on 30 October 1944, after his company had lost 55 out of 88 men in an attack on an entrenched. full-strength German company of elite mountain troops, Pvt. Ross placed his light machinegun 10 yards in advance of the foremost supporting riflemen in order to absorb the initial impact of an enemy counterattack. With machinegun and small-arms fire striking the earth near him, he fired with deadly effect on the assaulting force and repelled it. Despite the hail of automatic fire and the explosion of rifle grenades within a stone's throw of his position, he continued to man his machinegun alone, holding off 6 more German attacks. When the eighth assault was launched, most of his supporting riflemen were out of ammunition. They took positions in echelon behind Pvt. Ross and crawled up, during the attack, to extract a few rounds of ammunition from his machinegun ammunition belt. Pvt. Ross fought on virtually without assistance and, despite the fact that enemy grenadiers crawled to within 4 yards of his position in an effort to kill him with handgrenades, he again directed accurate and deadly fire on the hostile force and hurled it back. After expending his last rounds, Pvt. Ross was advised to withdraw to the company command post, together with 8 surviving riflemen, but, as more ammunition was expected, he declined to do so. The Germans launched their last all-out attack, converging their fire on Pvt. Ross in a desperate attempt to destroy the machinegun which stood between them and a decisive breakthrough. As his supporting riflemen fixed bayonets for a last-ditch stand, fresh ammunition arrived and was brought to Pvt. Ross just as the advance assault elements were about to swarm over his position. He opened murderous fire on the oncoming enemy; killed 40 and wounded 10 of the attacking force; broke the assault single-handedly, and forced the Germans to withdraw. Having killed or wounded at least 58 Germans in more than 5 hours of continuous combat and saved the remnants of his company from destruction, Pvt. Ross remained at his post that night and the following day for a total of 36 hours. His actions throughout this engagement were an inspiration to his comrades and maintained the high traditions of the military service.
His own story can be found here, worth the read;
http://www.militaryvaloan.com/blog/wilburn-k-ross-medal-of-honor-recipient/ (http://www.militaryvaloan.com/blog/wilburn-k-ross-medal-of-honor-recipient/)
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Recipient #60
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(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3182_zps86082e34.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3182_zps86082e34.jpg.html)
ROSSER, RONALD E. Rank: Corporal: U.S. Army: Heavy Mortar Company Division: 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division Born: 24 October 1929, Columbus, Ohio Departed: No Entered Service At: Crooksville, OhioG.O. Number: 67Date of Issue: 06/27/1952Accredited To: Crooksville, OHPlace / Date: Vicinity of Ponggilli, Korea, 12 January 1952
Citation: Cpl. Rosser, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty. While assaulting heavily fortified enemy hill positions, Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, was stopped by fierce automatic-weapons, small-arms, artillery, and mortar fire. Cpl. Rosser, a forward observer was with the lead platoon of Company L, when it came under fire from 2 directions. Cpl. Rosser turned his radio over to his assistant and, disregarding the enemy fire, charged the enemy positions armed with only carbine and a grenade. At the first bunker, he silenced its occupants with a burst from his weapon. Gaining the top of the hill, he killed 2 enemy soldiers, and then went down the trench, killing 5 more as he advanced. He then hurled his grenade into a bunker and shot 2 other soldiers as they emerged. Having exhausted his ammunition, he returned through the enemy fire to obtain more ammunition and grenades and charged the hill once more. Calling on others to follow him, he assaulted 2 more enemy bunkers. Although those who attempted to join him became casualties, Cpl. Rosser once again exhausted his ammunition obtained a new supply, and returning to the hilltop a third time hurled grenades into the enemy positions. During this heroic action Cpl. Rosser single-handedly killed at least 13 of the enemy. After exhausting his ammunition he accompanied the withdrawing platoon, and though himself wounded, made several trips across open terrain still under enemy fire to help remove other men injured more seriously than himself. This outstanding soldier's courageous and selfless devotion to duty is worthy of emulation by all men. He has contributed magnificently to the high traditions of the military service.
Ronald Rosser, Medal of Honor, Korean War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeDxejPgUCM#)
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Recipient #61
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(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3183_zpsd74acb6b.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3183_zpsd74acb6b.jpg.html)
RUBIN, TIBOR Rank: Corporal: U.S. Army: Company I Division: 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division Born: 18 June 1929, Hungary Departed: No Entered Service At: G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 09/23/2005Accredited To: Place / Date: Republic of Korea, 23 July 1950-20 April 1953
Citation: Corporal Tibor Rubin distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism during the period from July 23, 1950, to April 20, 1953, while serving as a rifleman with Company I, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division in the Republic of Korea. While his unit was retreating to the Pusan Perimeter, Corporal Rubin was assigned to stay behind to keep open the vital Taegu-Pusan Road link used by his withdrawing unit. During the ensuing battle, overwhelming numbers of North Korean troops assaulted a hill defended solely by Corporal Rubin. He inflicted a staggering number of casualties on the attacking force during his personal 24-hour battle, single-handedly slowing the enemy advance and allowing the 8th Cavalry Regiment to complete its withdrawal successfully. Following the breakout from the Pusan Perimeter, the 8th Cavalry Regiment proceeded northward and advanced into North Korea. During the advance, he helped capture several hundred North Korean soldiers. On October 30, 1950, Chinese forces attacked his unit at Unsan, North Korea, during a massive nighttime assault. That night and throughout the next day, he manned a .30 caliber machine gun at the south end of the unit's line after three previous gunners became casualties. He continued to man his machine gun until his ammunition was exhausted. His determined stand slowed the pace of the enemy advance in his sector, permitting the remnants of his unit to retreat southward. As the battle raged, Corporal Rubin was severely wounded and captured by the Chinese. Choosing to remain in the prison camp despite offers from the Chinese to return him to his native Hungary, Corporal Rubin disregarded his own personal safety and immediately began sneaking out of the camp at night in search of food for his comrades. Breaking into enemy food storehouses and gardens, he risked certain torture or death if caught. Corporal Rubin provided not only food to the starving Soldiers, but also desperately needed medical care and moral support for the sick and wounded of the POW camp. His brave, selfless efforts were directly attributed to saving the lives of as many as forty of his fellow prisoners. Corporal Rubin's gallant actions in close contact with the enemy and unyielding courage and bravery while a prisoner of war are in the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.
Tibor Rubin Medal of Honor Korean War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTnmDQVMank#)
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Wow, good stories.
And surviving Chi-Com POW camp, sneaking out and getting food and medicine for your mates?
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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German concentration camp - Korean POW -- Survivor of both. Go ahead, try to tell me there is no such thing as Divine Intervention. ::praying::
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I'm not gonna tell you that, I can't...I won't!
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Recipient # 62
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(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/2980_zps24d4c543.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/2980_zps24d4c543.jpg.html)
SAKATO, GEORGE T. Rank: Private : U.S. Army: Company E, 3d Platoon Division: 442 Regimental Combat Team Born: 19 February 1921 Colton, CA Departed: No Entered Service At: G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 06/21/2000Accredited To: Glendale, AZPlace / Date: Hill 617 Biffontaine, France, 29 October, 1944
Citation: Private George T. Sakato distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 29 October 1944, on hill 617 in the vicinity of Biffontaine, France. After his platoon had virtually destroyed two enemy defense lines, during which he personally killed five enemy soldiers and captured four, his unit was pinned down by heavy enemy fire. Disregarding the enemy fire, Private Sakato made a one-man rush that encouraged his platoon to charge and destroy the enemy strongpoint. While his platoon was reorganizing, he proved to be the inspiration of his squad in halting a counter-attack on the left flank during which his squad leader was killed. Taking charge of the squad, he continued his relentless tactics, using an enemy rifle and P-38 pistol to stop an organized enemy attack. During this entire action, he killed 12 and wounded two, personally captured four and assisted his platoon in taking 34 prisoners. By continuously ignoring enemy fire, and by his gallant courage and fighting spirit, he turned impending defeat into victory and helped his platoon complete its mission. Private Sakato's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.
Note; Sakato’s Medal of Honor was originally disapproved and he received instead the Distinguished Service Cross. In June, 2000, along with twenty-one other Asian-American veterans of World War II including Sen. Daniel Inouye from Hawaii, George Sakato finally received his Medal of Honor from President Bill Clinton. “How I got the medal, I don’t know”, Sakato said. “I saw only 90 days of actual combat. Others deserve this much more. But I’ll take it for the guys who didn’t come back”.
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While looking for the oral remembrance's of recipient #62 the only one found was not very good, but I did find this - and IMO this sums up the thoughts any of the recipients about 'heroes'; enjoy
Heroes 2013: Ordinary people or something more? (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSnoBXE7f0s#ws)
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Recipient # 63
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(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3409_zps5549e395.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3409_zps5549e395.jpg.html)
SASSER, CLARENCE EUGENE Rank: Specialist Fifth Class: U.S. Army: Headquarters Company Division: 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division Born: 12 September 1947, Chenango, Tex. Departed: No Entered Service At: Houston, Tex.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 03/07/1969Accredited To: Houston, TXPlace / Date: Ding Tuong Province, Republic of Vietnam, 10 January 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp5c. Sasser distinguished himself while assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion. He was serving as a medical aidman with Company A, 3d Battalion, on a reconnaissance in force operation. His company was making an air assault when suddenly it was taken under heavy small arms, recoilless rifle, machinegun and rocket fire from well fortified enemy positions on 3 sides of the landing zone. During the first few minutes, over 30 casualties were sustained. Without hesitation, Sp5c. Sasser ran across an open rice paddy through a hail of fire to assist the wounded. After helping 1 man to safety, was painfully wounded in the left shoulder by fragments of an exploding rocket. Refusing medical attention, he ran through a barrage of rocket and automatic weapons fire to aid casualties of the initial attack and, after giving them urgently needed treatment, continued to search for other wounded. Despite two additional wounds immobilizing his legs he dragged himself through the mud toward another soldier 100 meters away. Although in agonizing pain and faint from loss of blood, Sp5c. Sasser reached the man, treated him, and proceeded on to encourage another group of soldiers to crawl 200 meters to relative safety. There he attended their wounds for 5 hours until they were evacuated. Sp5c. Sasser's extraordinary heroism is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Clarence Sasser, Medal of Honor, Vietnam War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9ldSEsECQU#)
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Recipient #64
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/types-navy.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/types-navy.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3189_zps2a52ce23.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3189_zps2a52ce23.jpg.html)
SIMANEK, ROBERT E. Rank: Private First Class: U.S. Marine Corps: Company F, 2d Battalion Division: 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division Born: 26 April 1930, Detroit, Mich. Departed: No Entered Service At: Detroit, MIG.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/27/1953Accredited To: Detroit, MIPlace / Date: Korea, 17 August 1952
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company F, in action against enemy aggressor forces. While accompanying a patrol en route to occupy a combat outpost forward of friendly lines, Pfc. Simanek exhibited a high degree of courage and a resolute spirit of self-sacrifice in protecting the lives of his fellow marines. With his unit ambushed by an intense concentration of enemy mortar and small-arms fire, and suffering heavy casualties, he was forced to seek cover with the remaining members of the patrol in a nearby trench line. Determined to save his comrades when a hostile grenade was hurled into their midst, he unhesitatingly threw himself on the deadly missile absorbing the shattering violence of the exploding charge in his body and shielding his fellow marines from serious injury or death. Gravely wounded as a result of his heroic action, Pfc. Simanek, by his daring initiative and great personal valor in the face of almost certain death, served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Robert Simanek, Medal of Honor, Korean War (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeaXJWDVK3A#)
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It is hard to imagine oneself in any situation like these and thinking the results would have been the same...if not for some Divine Intervention!
::USA:: ::USA:: ::USA::
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Found this video - starts with the last recipient I post, Robert Simanek, at a Detroit Rotary club meeting, but in the middle he shows a video made by the Medal of Honor society that I thought was intereating, the video he shows starts at about 4 1/2 minutes into the'meeting'. Enjoy....
Robert Simanek Medal of Honor Detroit AM Rotary Club Visit (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeN106evQ-0#ws)
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Recipient # 65
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(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv176/rustybayonet_2009/MOH/3420_zps5a76e3ad.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/rustybayonet_2009/media/MOH/3420_zps5a76e3ad.jpg.html)
SPRAYBERRY, JAMES M. Rank: 1st Lieutenant: U.S. Army: Company D, 5th Battalion Division: 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division Born: 24 April 1947, LaGrange, Ga. Departed: No Entered Service At: Montgomery, Ala.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 10/09/1969Accredited To: Montgomery, ALPlace / Date: Republic of Vietnam, 25 April 1968
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Capt. Sprayberry, Armor, U.S. Army, distinguished himself by exceptional bravery while serving as executive officer of Company D. His company commander...of the men were wounded and separated from the main body of the company. A daylight attempt to rescue them was driven back by the well entrenched enemy's heavy fire. Capt. Sprayberry ...a volunteer night patrol to eliminate the intervening enemy bunkers and to relieve the surrounded element. The patrol soon began receiving enemy machinegun fire. Capt. Sprayberry quickly moved the men to protective cover and without regard for his own safety, crawled within close range of the bunker from which the fire was coming. He silenced the machinegun with a hand grenade. Identifying several l-man enemy positions nearby, Capt. Sprayberry immediately attacked them with the rest of his grenades. He crawled back for more grenades and when 2 grenades were thrown at his men from a position to the front, Capt. Sprayberry, without hesitation, again exposed himself and charged the enemy-held bunker killing its occupants with a grenade. Placing 2 men to cover his advance, he crawled forward and neutralized 3 more bunkers with grenades. Immediately thereafter, Capt. Sprayberry was surprised by an enemy soldier who charged from a concealed position. He killed the soldier with his pistol and with continuing disregard for the danger neutralized another enemy emplacement. Capt. Sprayberry then established radio contact with the isolated men, directing them toward his position. When the 2 elements made contact he organized his men into litter parties to evacuate the wounded. As the evacuation was nearing completion, he observed an enemy machinegun...a grenade. Capt. Sprayberry returned to the rescue party, established security, and moved to friendly lines with the wounded. This rescue operation, which lasted approximately 71/2 hours, saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers. Capt. Sprayberry personally killed 12 enemy soldiers, eliminated 2 machineguns, and destroyed numerous enemy bunkers. Capt. Sprayberry's indomitable spirit and gallant action at great personal risk to his life are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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Recipient # 66
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STUMPF, KENNETH E. Rank: Staff Sergeant (then SPC 4): U.S. Army: Company C, 1st Battalion Division: 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division Born: 28 September 1944, Menasha, Wis. Departed: No Entered Service At: Milwaukee, Wis.G.O. Number: Date of Issue: 09/19/1968Accredited To: WisconsinPlace / Date: Near Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam, 25 April 1967
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Stumpf distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader of the 3d Platoon, Company C, on a search and destroy mission. As S/Sgt. Stumpf's company approached a village, it encountered a North Vietnamese rifle company occupying a well fortified bunker complex. During the initial contact, 3 men from his squad fell wounded in front of a hostile machinegun emplacement. The enemy's heavy volume of fire prevented the unit from moving to the aid of the injured men, but S/Sgt. Stumpf left his secure position in a deep trench and ran through the barrage of incoming rounds to reach his wounded comrades. He picked up 1 of the men and carried him back to the safety of the trench. Twice more S/Sgt. Stumpf dashed forward while the enemy turned automatic weapons and machineguns upon him, yet he managed to rescue the remaining 2 wounded squad members. He then organized his squad and led an assault against several enemy bunkers from which continuously heavy fire was being received. He and his squad successfully eliminated 2 of the bunker positions, but one to the front of the advancing platoon remained a serious threat. Arming himself with extra handgrenades, S/Sgt. Stumpf ran over open ground, through a volley of fire directed at him by a determined enemy, toward the machinegun position. As he reached the bunker, he threw a handgrenade through the aperture. It was immediately returned by the occupants, forcing S/Sgt. Stumpf to take cover. Undaunted, he pulled the pins on 2 more grenades, held them for a few seconds after activation, then hurled them into the position, this time successfully destroying the emplacement. With the elimination of this key position, his unit was able to assault and overrun the enemy. S/Sgt. Stumpf's relentless spirit of aggressiveness, intrepidity, and ultimate concern for the lives of his men, are in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.