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Congressional Medal of Honor Recipients
of the 25th Infantry Division
HISTORY OF THE 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION (LIGHT) AND THE UNITED STATES ARMY, HAWAII (USARHAW)
In 1872, Major General John M. Schofield stepped ashore to evaluate the military potential of Oahu's seaports. He found two excellent harbors in the middle of the Pacific, only six miles apart. General Schofield, who was later Commanding General of the Army, was able to convince Congress that Hawaii was vital to the defense of the United States.
On 12 August 1898, at the height of the Spanish American War , Hawaii was annexed as a U.S. territory, and four days later 1,300 troops of the 1st New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment and 3rd Battalion, 2nd U.S. Volunteer Engineers landed near Diamond Head to set up the first military base. Their mission was to defend Oahu and facilitate the use of Hawaii as a staging base for operations against the Spanish Empire.
The first permanent Post established on Oahu was Fort Shafter in 1907. With arrival of cavalry two years later, CPT Joseph C. Casnter established a camp on the Leilehua plain. Beginning as a simple cavalry camp, Schofield Barracks quickly became a full-fledged military community. The purpose of the base was to defend Pearl Harbor from an overland attack from the North Shore. Between 1908 and 1911, coastal defense guns were placed along the southern coast at Forts Ruger, DeRussy, Armstrong, Kamehameha, and Weaver.
ACTIVATION OF THE 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION
On 1 October 1941, the Hawaiian Division was inactivated. The 24th Infantry Division integrated the 19th and 21st Infantry Regiments, as well as the 229th Infantry Regiment of the Hawaiian Army National Guard. The 27th and the 35th Infantry Regiments, the 298th Infantry Regiment of the Hawaiian Guard, plus a field artillery brigade, formed the core of the new 25th Infantry Division.
WORLD WAR II
PEARL HARBOR - These units operated for only ten weeks in peace before the Japanese launched their surprise attack on Pearl Harbor , December 7, 1941. Immediately following the attack on Pearl Harbor, both the 24th and the 25th were dispatched to their defensive positions. The 24th deployed to the North Shore of Oahu and the 25th to the beaches on the south side of the island. Under threat of another Japanese attack, the following year was spent in these defensive positions while units concentrated on intensive jungle training. Throughout the War, the Hawaiian Islands served as the major command and control, deployment, and training center for the US Army in the Pacific Theater.
GUADALCANAL - After finally receiving the call to combat on November 25, 1942, the 25th Infantry Division began its deployment by troop ship to the South Pacific, landing on Guadalcanal between December 17, 1942 and January 4, 1943. The Division led by Major General Lawton Collins, received orders upon arrival to launch an attack against the Japanese forces which other Army and Marine Corps contingents had been fighting for nearly five months. After a month of bitter combat, the 25th Infantry Division proved to be the element that tipped the scales in favor of the US side. The speed with which the Division executed its mission earned it the informal nickname of "Tropic Lightning."
NORTH SOLOMON ISLANDS - The next combat action for the Division took place in the Solomon Islands. The 27th and the 35th regiments and the newly attached 161st Infantry Regiment of the Washington Army National Guard (The Hawaiian National Guard's 298th Infantry Regiment was released on 3 August 1942 to protect its home state) defeated Japanese Forces on Arundel (Kohinggo) and Kolombangera Islands and participated in the capture of Vella LaVella.
PHILIPPINES - Following the Solomon campaigns the Division headed for New Zealand and subsequently New Caledonia, for a period of rest as well as intensive training. By that time, most units had been depleted by harsh jungle battles against a highly motivated enemy.
The rest didn't last long before the Division received orders to land at Luzon in the Philippine Islands on January 11, 1945.
Once in country, Divisional units quickly pushed from the Lingayen Gulf to the main highway through Balete Pass where they joined forces with the 32d Infantry Division. By the time the 25th captured the Balete Pass, it had suffered more combat deaths than any other U.S. Division in the Philippines. With the Battle of Luzon at a close, "Tropic Lightning" was moved to Camp Patrick to prepare for the invasion of Japan.
In 165 days of continuous active combat in the Philippines, the 25th accounted for more than 6,000 Japanese killed and set the record for combat endurance in the Pacific Theater of Operations. The record was recognized with the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation as well as six other unit citations.
JAPAN - The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki precluded the plan to invade Japan. Instead, the 25th took part in the Occupation of Japan after the surrender. It had become characteristic of the men of the 25th to go beyond what was expected of them. In peace, as in war, Tropic Lightning put its heart processing the war's refugees and homeless. The 27th Infantry Wolfhounds and the "Automatic" Eight Field Artillery Regiment founded an orphanage at Osaka for the war's forgotten children. Since the end of that tour the men of the Wolfhounds and Automatic Eight have supported the orphanage, building it into one of the finest in the Orient.
All told six Division soldiers were awarded Medals of Honor for their bravery and sacrifice during WWII.
ADOPTION OF NICKNAME AND PATCH - During late 1943, the Division's shoulder patch, a lightning bolt superimposed on a taro leaf, was formally adopted. The 25th Division has used "lightning" as the telephone call sign for Division Headquarters' arrival on Guadalcanal in December 1942.
The "lightning" epithet was adopted because of the speed with which the Division conducted it's operation on Guadalcanal. The marines, too, added to the eventual institutionalized use of the nickname by calling the unit the Lightning Division.
Lightning was subsequently changed to Tropic Lightning, because it was rationalized the Division had spent its entire existence in the tropics.
The taro leaf of the shoulder patch is reminiscent of the birth of the 25th from elements of the famous Hawaiian Division, and suggestive of the pacific region where the Division was established and where it had fought so well. The native taro plant further signifies the Division's birthplace with its often brilliantly colored, arrow-shaped leaves.
The bolt of lightning symbolized speed and aggressive spirit - a trait the Division continually displayed during its battles in the Pacific. The colors of red and gold were those of the late Hawaiian monarchy.
In a break from tradition, the Department of the Army officially approved the use of the nickname Tropic Lightning on August 3, 1953. Authorization for the Division to use the nickname, in addition to its regular numerical designation, marked the first time that a divisional unit had been given this kind of permission by the Department of the Army.
WORLD WAR II
Medal of Honor Recipients
SGT. William G. Fournier - Co. M, 35th Infantry
T/5 Lewis Hall - Co. M, 35th Infantry
CPT Charles W. Davis - 2nd Bn, 27th Infantry
T/4 Laverne Parrish - Med. Det., 161 Infantry
MSG Charles L. McGaha - Co. G, 35th Infantry
SSG Raymond H. Cooley - Co. B, 27th Infantry
KOREAN WAR
Open warfare once again flared in Asia, now the Division's primary area of concern, on June 25, 1950.
The North Korean People's Army crossed the 38th Parallel on that day in an unprovoked attack on the Republic of South Korea. Acting under United Nations orders, the Tropic Lightning Division moved from it's base in Japan to Korea between July 5 - 18, 1950.
PUSAN - The Division, then under the command of MG William B. Kean, successfully completed its first mission by blocking the approaches to the port city Pusan.
For this action, the Tropic Lightning received its first Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation. But other battles later in the conflict further enhanced the Division's reputation for exceptional combat effectiveness.
DRIVE INTO NORTH KOREA - The Division participated in the break-out from the Pusan perimeter and the successful drive into North Korea in October 1950.
Task Force Dolvin, the 89th Tank Battalion under LTC Dolvin on November 24 and together these units successfully drove the enemy to the Yalu River.
In a sudden and unexpected reversal, however, an overwhelming number of Chinese Communist troops crossed the Yalu and pushed back United Nations forces all along the front.
The Division was grudgingly forced to carry out a systematic withdrawal and ordered to take up defensive positions on the south bank of the Chongchon River November 30, 1950. Eventually, these lines failed. However, after a series of short withdrawals a permanent battle line was established south of Osan.
INCHON/KIMPO AIRBASE - After a month and a half of planning and reorganization, a new offensive was launched January 15, 1951, and was successfully completed by Feb 10 with the recapture of Inchon and Kimpo Air Base.
This was the first of several successful assaults on the Chinese/North Korean force, which helped turn the tide in the United Nation's favor.
IRON TRIANGLE - The Division next participated in Operation Ripper, during which it drove the enemy across the Han River. Success continued with Operation Dauntless, Detonate and Piledriver in the Spring of 1951.
These offensives secured part of the famous "Iron Triangle" which enhanced the United Nations' bargaining platform. With leaders of four nations now a the negotiating tables in the summer of 1951, Division activity slowed to patrol and defensive actions to maintain the line of resistance. This type of action continued into the winter of 1952.
SEOUL - When negotiations began to fail, the Division assumed the responsibility of guarding the approaches of Seoul May 5, 1953. 23 days later, a heavy Chinese assault was hurled at it. The Division held its ground and the assault was repulsed; the brunt of the attack was absorbed by the 14th Infantry, "Golden Dragons". By successfully defending Seoul from continued attack from May to July 1953, the Division earned its second Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Again negotiators moved toward peace. In July, the Division again moved to reserve status at Camp Casey where it remained through the signing of the armistice July 27, 1953.
Fourteen Tropic Lightning soldiers were awarded Medals of Honor during the Korean Conflict, making the Tropic Lightning Division the most decorated Division of that War.
The Division remained in Korea until 1954 and returned to Hawaii from September through October of that year. After a 12-year absence, the 25th Infantry Tropic Lightning Division had finally returned home.
KOREAN WAR
Medal Of Honor Recipients
PFC William Thompson - Co. M, 24th Inf.
SGT Cornelius H. Charlton - Co. C,24 Inf.
MSG Melvin O. Handrich - Co. C, 5th RCT
PVT Billy G. Kandell - Co I, 35th Inf.
CPL John W. Collier - Co. C, 2/27 Inf.
2LT Jerome Sudnt - Co. B, 27th Inf.
SGT William R. Jecelin - Co. C, 35th Inf.
PFC Bryant H. Womack - Med Co., 14th Inf.
CPT Reginald R. Desiderio - Co. E, 27th Inf.
CPL Benito Martinez - Co. A, 27th Inf.
CPT Lewis L. Millet - Co. E, 27th Inf.
SGT Don Porter - Co. G, 14th Inf.
SFC Donald R. Moyer - Co. E - 35th Inf.
PFC Ernest E. West - Co. L, 14th Inf.
VIETNAM
After its return to Hawaii in 1954, the Division established and conducted intensive training programs in jungle warfare techniques and the study of Asian languages, thus becoming the only trained counter-guerrilla unit in the U.S. Army.
In response to a request from the U.S. Military Assistance Command in Vietnam, the Division sent 100 helicopter door-gunners to the Republic of South Vietnam in early 1963.
By August 1965, further Division involvement in the coming Vietnam Conflict included the deployment of Company C, 65th Engineer Battalion, to South Vietnam to assist in the construction of port facilities at Cam Ranh Bay.
By mid 1965, 2,200 men of the Tropic Lightning Division were involved in Vietnam.
OPERATION BLUE LIGHT - The Division was again asked to contribute combat forces in December of that year. In response to a MAC-V request, the Division deployed 4,000 3rd Brigade infantrymen and 9,000 tons of equipment from Hawaii in 25 days to the Northwest sector of South Vietnam to firmly establish a fortified enclave from which the Division could operate.
Operation Blue Light was the largest and longest airlift of personnel and cargo into a combat zone in military history before Operation Desert Shield. The Brigade deployed its first soldiers from Hickam Air Force Base, Honolulu, to the central highlands at Pleiku. These men arrived in Vietnam December 24, 1965. By mid-January, the deployment operation was complete - giving combat planners in Vietnam a favorable balance of power.
The Division was heavily engaged from April 1966 until 1969 throughout the area of operations in Southeast Asia. During this period, Tropic Lightning soldiers fought in some of the toughest battles of the war.
TET OFFENSIVE/VIETNAMIZATION - During the Tet offensives of 1968 and 1969, Tropic Lightning soldiers were instrumental in defending the besieged city of Saigon. Due to its success in fending off that attack, the 25th Infantry Division spent most of 1969 more involved in the Vietnamization Program than in actual combat.
CAMBODIA - During a three-month period, from April through June 1970, Tropic Lightning soldiers participated in Allied thrusts deep into enemy sanctuaries located in Cambodia. In these operations, the Division units confiscated thousands of tons of supplies and hundreds of weapons. This operation crippled the Cambodian efforts against American units. Following its return from Cambodia to South Vietnam, the Division resumed its place in the Vietnamization Program. The war was winding down.
By late December 1970, elements of the 25th Infantry Division were able to begin redeployment to Schofield Barracks. Second Brigade was the last element of the Tropic Lightning Division to depart Vietnam. It arrived at Schofield Barracks in the early days of May 1971. During the war in Vietnam, 22 Medals of Honor were awarded to Tropic Lightning soldiers - more than any other Division in the war.
VIETNAM WAR
Medal Of Honor Recipients
SPC Daniel Fernandez
CPT Riley Pitts
SPC Danny J. Peterson
CPT Ronald E. Ray
SPC Nicholas J. Cutinha
1LT Russell A. Steindam
CPT Robert F. Foley
SSG Paul R. Lambers
1LT Rupert L. Sargent
SGT John F. Backer, Jr.
SSG Melvin R. Young
SSG Kenneth L. Stumpf
CPT Joseph X. Grant
1LT John R. Warren, Jr.
SGT Charles C. Fleek
SGT Ted Belcher
SSG Robert W. Hartstock
CPL Thomas W. Bennett
1SG Macomo Yabes
1LT Stephen H. Doane
1LT Stephen Karopcyc
SSG Hammett L. Bowen, Jr.
* During the Vietnam, 22 soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor - the most Medals of Honor received by any single unit in the war.
POST VIETNAM REORGANIZATION
After its return to Schofield Barracks, the 25th Infantry Division remained the only Army Division to have been on the mainland.
In a time of overall military downsizing, it was reduced to a single brigade numbering 4,000 men.
The Division was reactivated in March 1972. It was reorganized to include as a "Roundout" Brigade the 29th Infantry Brigade of the Hawaii Army National Guard which included: the 2-299th Infantry Battalion Hawaii Guard, 100th Battalion -442d Infantry of the Army Reserves and the 1-184th Infantry Battalion California National Guard.
Now reorganized, the 25th Infantry Division trained for the next eight years throughout the Pacific Theater and continued to improve its combat capabilities with troop deployment varying in size from squads. Who participated in training missions with Fijian forces, to operations as large as Operation Team Spirit, where more than 5,000 Divisional troops were airlifted to South Korea for this annual exercise.
LIGHT INFANTRY - In 1985, the Division began its reorganization from a conventional infantry division to a light infantry division. The four primary characteristics of this new light infantry division were to be: mission flexibility, rapid deployment and combat readiness at 100 percent strength with a Pacific Basin orientation.
Major configuration changes included the addition of a third infantry brigade, an additional direct-support artillery battalion and the expansion of the combat aviation battalion to a brigade-sized unit.
With the transfer of large quantities of heavy equipment, the 25th Infantry Division earned the designation "light" - the reorganization was completed by October 1, 1986.
Training became more sophisticated and more intense. In 1988, the Division's first battalions participated in rotations at the Joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Chaffee, Ark. This training center provides the most realistic training available to light forces in the Army. Coupled with Joint/Combined training exercises Cobra Gold in Thailand, Kangaroo in Australia and Orient Shield in Japan, the Division's demanding exercise schedule significantly increased the Division's fighting capabilities. Until 1993 Operation Team Spirit in Korea remained the Division's largest annual maneuver exercise, involving more than half of the Division's strength.
DESERT SHIELD/STORM
During the Gulf War, one platoon each from Companies A, B and C, 4th Battalion, 27th Infantry, "Wolfhounds" deployed to Saudi Arabia in January 1991. These Tropic Lightning soldiers were scheduled to be replacement squads in the ground campaign; however, after observing their thoroughly outstanding performance in desert warfare training, the Assistant Commander of Third U.S. Army asked for them to become the security force for the Army's Forward Headquarters.
In that role, the Wolfhound platoons were alerted and attacked with Third Army (Forward) into Kuwait City February 26, where they secured the headquarters area and conducted mop-up operations in the city and its adjacent mine fields.
Company A's platoon was separated from the other Wolfhounds following that battle to accompany General H. Norman Schwarzkopf into Iraq March 1, 1991 providing security at the truce signing.
The three platoons returned to Schofield Barracks without casualties on March 20, 1991.
HAITI - UPHOLD DEMOCRACY
More than 3, 700 soldiers from he 25th Infantry Division (Light) deployed to Haiti in January 1995 to participated in the peacekeeping mission Operation Uphold Democracy.
TWO-FOLD MISSION - The Division's mission was two-fold: The Division staff assumed the role of the Multinational Force Headquarters while soldiers of the 2d and 3d Brigades became members of the United States contingent.
As the Multinational Force Commander, the 25th Infantry Division (Light) Commanding General Major General George A. Fisher assumed responsibility for soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and Coast guardsmen from 27 nations, including the Caribbean community, Nepal, Bangladesh and Guam.
MG Fisher, as well as other members of the multinational staff, worked with President Jean Bertrand Aristide and members of the various ministries to help Haiti reestablish itself as a democratic republic.
Additionally, the staff provided the resources necessary for the Multinational Force to conduct this vital peacekeeping mission. Many of the missions undertaken in Uphold Democracy required military acumen and a great deal of diplomacy and managerial expertise. Members of the Division staff and subordinate commands worked extensively with members of the Haitian government in laying the foundation for a successful democracy. While the staff was busy building a budding democracy, Divisional peacekeeping units were deployed to two separate areas of the tiny island nation.
In the South, members of the 2d Brigade provided security for President Aristide, the National Palace and other locations in Port-au-Prince critical to Haiti's emerging democracy. Through their vigilance and presence there, the threat to the government and government officials was significantly lowered. In the North, members of the 3d Brigade were stationed at Cap Haitian. There the unit assisted the government in establishing law and order, developing infrastructure and setting the conditions necessary from promoting democracy.
Members of the 25th Military Police Battalion played a critical role in upgrading the national prison and assisting in the training of the Haitian interim security force. Their part of the job done, the 25th Infantry Division (Light) officially left Haiti March 31, 1995 when the United Nations Mission in Haiti assumed command. Approximately 500 2d Brigade soldiers, though, remained as part of the United Nations Force through early June 1995.
DIVISION REORGANIZATION/TODAY
In 1995, the Division underwent another reorganization and reduction as a part of the Army's downsizing. First Brigade and its direct support units were inactivated and moved to Fort Lewis, Wash., where they were again reactivated as a detached brigade of the 25th Infantry Division (Light).
Today the "Tropic Lightning" Division is composed of three infantry brigades (two in Hawaii; one at Fort Lewis), an Aviation Brigade, Division Artillery, a Division Support command and a complement of separate battalions. As a major ground reserve force for the U.S. Pacific Command, the "Tropic Lightning" Division routinely deploys from Schofield Barracks to participate in exercises in Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Australia and the Big Island of Hawaii.
Additionally, soldiers from 11 Pacific Basin nations annually come to Hawaii to participate in exchange programs with the 25th Infantry Division (Light) units. This program enhances the Division's interrelations with sister services and allied nations around the world.
All this leads to the Division's motto - earned more than 50 years ago but very much applicable today - Ready to Strike! Anytime. Anywhere.
BAKER, JOHN F., JR.
Rank and organization : Sergeant (then PFC), U. S. Army, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Near Quan Dau Tieng, Republic of Vietnam, 5 November 1966.
Entered service at : Moline, Illinois.
Born : 30 October 1945, Davenport Iowa.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Enroute to assist another unit that was engage with the enemy, Company A came under intense enemy fire and the lead man was killed instantly. Sgt. Baker immediately moved to the head of the column and together with another soldier knocked out two enemy bunkers. When his comrade was mortally wounded, Sgt. Baker, spotting four Viet Cong snipers, killed all of them, evacuated the fallen soldier and returned to lead repeated assaults against the enemy positions, killing several more Viet Cong. Moving to attack two additional enemy bunkers, he and another soldier drew intense enemy fire and Sgt. Baker was blown from his feet by an enemy grenade. He quickly recovered and single-handedly destroyed one bunker before the other solider was wounded. Seizing his fallen comrade's machine-gun, Sgt. Baker charged through the deadly fusillade to silence the other bunker. He evacuated his comrade, replenished his ammunition and returned to the forefront to brace the enemy fire and continue the fight. When the forward element was ordered to withdraw, he carried one wounded man to he rear. As he returned to evacuate another soldier, he was taken under fire by snipers, but raced beyond the friendly troops to attack and kill the snipers. After evacuating the wounded man, he returned to cover the deployment of the unit. His ammunition now exhausted, he dragged two more of his fallen comrades to the rear. Sgt. Baker's selfless heroism, indomitable fighting spirit, and extraordinary gallantry were directly responsible for saving the lives of several of his comrades, and inflicting serious damage on the enemy. His acts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
BELCHER, TED
Rank and organization : Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Plei Djerang, Republic of Vietnam, 19 November 1966.
Entered service at : Huntington, W . Va.
Born : 21 July 1924, Accoville, W . Va.
Citation : Distinguishing himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life. Sgt. Belcher's unit was engaged in a search and destroy mission with Company B, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry, the Battalion Reconnaissance Platoon and a special forces company of civilian irregular defense group personnel. As a squad leader of the 2d Platoon of Company C, Sgt. Belcher was leading his men when they encountered a bunker complex. The reconnaissance platoon, located a few hundred meters northwest of Company C, received a heavy volume of fire from well camouflaged snipers. As the 2d Platoon moved forward to assist the unit under attack, Sgt. Belcher and his squad, advancing only a short distance through the dense jungle terrain, met heavy and accurate automatic weapons and sniper fire. Sgt. Belcher and his squad were momentarily stopped by the deadly volume of enemy fire. He quickly gave the order to return fire and resume the advance toward the enemy. As he moved up with his men, a hand grenade landed in the midst of the sergeant's squad. Instantly realizing the immediate danger to his men, Sgt. Belcher, unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his safety, lunged forward, covering the grenade with his body. Absorbing the grenade blast at the cost of his life, he saved his comrades from becoming casualties. Sgt. Belcher's profound concern for his fellow soldiers, at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
BENNETT, THOMAS W.
Rank and organization : Corporal, U.S. Army, 2d Platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry.
Place and date : Chu Pa Region, Pleiku Province, Republic of Vietnam, 9-11 February 1969.
Entered service at : Fairmont, W. Va.
Born : 7 April 1947, Morgantown, W. Va.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Cpl. Bennett distinguished himself while serving as a platoon medical aidman with the 2d Platoon, Company B, during a reconnaissance-in-force mission. On 9 February the platoon was moving to assist the 1st Platoon of Company D which had run into a North Vietnamese ambush when it became heavily engaged by the intense small arms, automatic weapons, mortar and rocket fire from a well fortified and numerically superior enemy unit. In the initial barrage of fire, 3 of the point members of the platoon fell wounded. Cpl. Bennett, with complete disregard for his safety, ran through the heavy fire to his fallen comrades, administered life-saving first aid under fire and then made repeated trips carrying the wounded men to positions of relative safety from which they would be medically evacuated from the battle position. Cpl. Bennett repeatedly braved the intense enemy fire moving across open areas to give aid and comfort to his wounded comrades. He valiantly exposed himself to the heavy fire in order to retrieve the bodies of several fallen personnel. Throughout the night and following day, Cpl. Bennett moved from position to position treating and comforting the several personnel who had suffered shrapnel and gunshot wounds. On 11 February, Company B again moved in an assault on the well fortified enemy positions and became heavily engaged with the numerically superior enemy force. Five members of the company fell wounded in the initial assault. Cpl. Bennett ran to their aid without regard to the heavy fire. He treated 1 wounded comrade and began running toward another seriously wounded man. Although the wounded man was located forward of the company position covered by heavy enemy grazing fire and Cpl. Bennett was warned that it was impossible to reach the position, he leaped forward with complete disregard for his safety to save his comrade's life. In attempting to save his fellow soldier, he was mortally wounded. Cpl. Bennett's undaunted concern for his comrades at the cost 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.
BOWEN, HAMMETT L., JR.
Rank and organization : Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 2d Battalion, 14th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Binh Duong Province, Republic of Vietnam, 27 June 1969.
Entered service at : Jacksonville, Fla.
Born : 30 November 1947, Lagrange, Ga.
Citation : S/Sgt. Bowen distinguished himself while serving as a platoon sergeant during combat operations in Binh Duong Province, Republic of Vietnam. S/Sgt. Bowen's platoon was advancing on a reconnaissance mission into enemy controlled terrain when it came under the withering crossfire of small arms and grenades from an enemy ambush force. S/Sgt. Bowen placed heavy suppressive fire on the enemy positions and ordered his men to fall back. As the platoon was moving back, an enemy grenade was thrown amid S/Sgt. Bowen and 3 of his men. Sensing the danger to his comrades, S/Sgt. Bowen shouted a warning to his men and hurled himself on the grenade, absorbing the explosion with his body while saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. S/Sgt. Bowen's extraordinary courage and concern for his men at the cost of his life served as an inspiration to his comrades and are in the highest traditions of the military service and the U.S. Army.
CHARLTON, CORNELIUS H.
Rank and organization : Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Near Chipo-ri, Korea, 2 June 1951.
Entered service at : Bronx, N.Y. Born: 24 July 1929, East Gulf, W. Va.
Born :
Citation : Sgt. Charlton, a member of Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. His platoon was attacking heavily defended hostile positions on commanding ground when the leader was wounded and evacuated. Sgt. Charlton assumed command, rallied the men, and spearheaded the assault against the hill. Personally eliminating 2 hostile positions and killing 6 of the enemy with his rifle fire and grenades, he continued up the slope until the unit suffered heavy casualties and became pinned down. Regrouping the men he led them forward only to be again hurled back by a shower of grenades. Despite a severe chest wound, Sgt. Charlton refused medical attention and led a third daring charge which carried to the crest of the ridge. Observing that the remaining emplacement which had retarded the advance was situated on the reverse slope, he charged it alone, was again hit by a grenade but raked the position with a devastating fire which eliminated it and routed the defenders. The wounds received during his daring exploits resulted in his death but his indomitable courage, superb leadership, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself the infantry, and the military service.
COLLIER, JOHN W.
Rank and organization : Corporal, U. S. Army, Company C, 27th Infantry.
Place and date : Chindong-ni, Korea, 19 September 1950.
Entered service at : Worthington, Kentucky.
Born : Worthington, Kentucky.
Citation : Corporal John W. Collier, Company C, 27th Infantry Regiment, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action near Chindong-ni, Korea, on 19 September 1950. While engaged in an assault on a strategic ridge strongly defended by a fanatical enemy, the leading elements of his company encountered intense automatic weapons and grenade fire. Corporal Collier and three comrades volunteered and moved forward to neutralize an enemy machine-gun position which was hampering the company's advance but they were twice repulsed. On the third attempt, Corporal Collier, despite heavy enemy fire and grenade barrages, moved to an exposed position ahead of his comrades, assaulted and destroyed the machine-gun nest, killing at least four enemy soldiers. As he returned down the rocky fire-swept hill and joined his squad, an enemy grenade landed in their midst. Shouting a warning to his comrades, he, selflessly and unhesitatingly threw himself upon the grenade and smothered its explosion with his body. This intrepid action saved his comrades from death or injury. Corporal Collier's supreme personal bravery, consummate gallantry, and noble self-sacrifice reflect untold glory upon himself and uphold the honored traditions of the military service.
COOLEY, RAYMOND H.
Rank and organization : Staff Sergeant, U. S. Army, Company B, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Near Lumboy, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 24 February 1945.
Entered service at : Richard City, Tennessee.
Born : 7 May 1914, Dunlap Tennessee.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his own life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Cooley was a platoon guide in an assault on a camouflaged entrenchment defended by machineguns, rifles, and mortars. When his men were pinned down by 2 enemy machineguns, he voluntarily advanced under heavy fire to within 20 yards of 1 of the guns and attacked it with a hand grenade. The enemy, however, threw the grenade back at him before it could explode. Arming a second grenade, he held it for several seconds of the safe period and then hurled it into the enemy position, where it exploded instantaneously, destroying the gun and crew. He then moved toward the remaining gun, throwing grenades into enemy foxholes as he advanced. Inspired by his actions, 1 squad of his platoon joined him. After he had armed another grenade and was preparing to throw it into the second machinegun position, 6 enemy soldiers rushed at him. Knowing he could not dispose of the armed grenade without injuring his comrades, because of the intermingling in close combat of the men of his platoon and the enemy in the melee which ensued, he deliberately covered the grenade with his body and was severely wounded as it exploded. By his heroic actions, S/Sgt. Cooley not only silenced a machinegun and so inspired his fellow soldiers that they pressed the attack and destroyed the remaining enemy emplacements, but also, in complete disregard of his own safety, accepted certain injury and possible loss of life to avoid wounding his comrades.
CUTINHA, NICHOLAS J.
Rank and organization : Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, Company C, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Near Gia Dinh, Republic of Vietnam, 2 March 1968.
Entered service at : Coral Gables, Fla.
Born : 13 January 1945, Fernandina Beach, Fla.
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 machine gunner with Company C, Sp4c. Cutinha accompanied his unit on a combat mission near Gia Dinh. Suddenly his company came under small arms, automatic weapons, mortar and rocket propelled grenade fire, from a battalion size enemy unit. During the initial hostile attack, communication with the battalion was lost and the company commander and numerous members of the company became casualties. When Sp4c. Cutinha observed that his company was pinned down and disorganized, he moved to the front with complete disregard for his safety, firing his machine gun at the charging enemy. As he moved forward he drew fire on his own position and was seriously wounded in the leg. As the hostile fire intensified and half of the company was killed or wounded, Sp4c. Cutinha assumed command of all the survivors in his area and initiated a withdrawal while providing covering fire for the evacuation of the wounded. He killed several enemy soldiers but sustained another leg wound when his machine gun was destroyed by incoming rounds. Undaunted, he crawled through a hail of enemy fire to an operable machine gun in order to continue the defense of his injured comrades who were being administered medical treatment. Sp4c. Cutinha maintained this position, refused assistance, and provided defensive fire for his comrades until he fell mortally wounded. He was solely responsible for killing 15 enemy soldiers while saving the lives of at least 9 members of his own unit. Sp4c. Cutinha's gallantry and extraordinary heroism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
DAVIS, CHARLES W.
Rank and organization : Major, United States Army, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Guadacanal Island, 12 January 1943.
Entered service at :
Born :
Citation : For distinguishing himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy on Guadalcanal Island. On 12 January 1943, Major Davis, then Captain, executive officer of an Infantry Battalion, volunteered to carry instructions to the leading companies of his battalion which had been caught in a cross fire from Japanese machine-guns. With complete disregard for his own safety, he made his way to the trapped units, delivered the instructions, supervised their execution and remained overnight in this exposed position. On the following day, Major Davis again volunteered to lead the assault on the Japanese position which was holding up the advance. When his rifle jammed on its first shot, he drew his pistol and waving his men on, led the assault over the top of the hill. Electrified by his action another group of soldiers followed and seized the hill. The capture of this position broke Japanese resistance and the battalion was then able to proceed and secure the Corps objective. The courage and leadership displayed by Major Davis inspired the entire battalion and unquestionably led to the success of its attack.
DESIDERIO, REGINALD B.
Rank and organization : Captain, U.S. Army, Company E, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Near Ipsok, Korea, 27 November 1950.
Entered service at : Gilroy, Calif.
Born : 12 September 1918, Clairton, Pa.
Citation : Captain Desiderio distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. His company was given the mission of defending the command post of a task force against an enemy breakthrough. After personal reconnaissance during darkness and under intense enemy fire, he placed his men in defensive positions to repel an attack. Early in the action he was wounded, but refused evacuation and despite enemy fire continued to move among his men checking their positions and making sure that each element was prepared to receive the next attack. Again wounded, he continued to direct his men. By his inspiring leadership he encouraged them to hold their position. In the subsequent fighting when the fanatical enemy succeeded in penetrating the position, he personally charged them with carbine, rifle, and grenades, inflicting many casualties until he himself was mortally wounded. His men, spurred on by his intrepid example, repelled this final attack. Capt. Desiderio's heroic leadership, courageous and loyal devotion to duty, and his complete disregard for personal safety reflect the highest honor on him and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.
DOANE, STEPHEN HOLDEN
Rank and organization : First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Hau Nghia Province, Republic of Vietnam, 25 March 1969.
Entered service at : Albany, N.Y.
Born : 13 October 1947, Beverely, Mass.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. First Lt. Doane was serving as a platoon leader when his company, engaged in a tactical operation, abruptly contacted an enemy force concealed in protected bunkers and trenches. Three of the leading soldiers were pinned down by enemy crossfire. One was seriously wounded. After efforts of 1 platoon to rescue these men had failed, it became obvious that only a small group could successfully move close enough to destroy the enemy position and rescue or relieve the trapped soldiers, 1st Lt. Doane, although fully aware of the danger of such an action, crawled to the nearest enemy bunker and silenced it. He was wounded but continued to advance to a second enemy bunker. As he prepared to throw a grenade, he was again wounded. Undaunted, he deliberately pulled the pin on the grenade and lunged with it into the enemy bunker, destroying this final obstacle. 1st Lt. Doane's supreme act enabled his company to rescue the trapped men without further casualties. The extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by this officer were an inspiration to his men and are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.
FERNANDEZ, DANIEL
Rank and organization : Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry (Mechanized) 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Cu Chi, Hau Nghia Province, Republic of Vietnam, 18 February 1966.
Entered service at : Albuquerque, N. Mex.
Born : 30 June 1944, Albuquerque, N. Mex.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. Fernandez demonstrated indomitable courage when the patrol was ambushed by a Viet Cong rifle company and driven back by the intense enemy automatic weapons fire before it could evacuate an American soldier who had been wounded in the Viet Cong attack. Sp4c. Fernandez, a sergeant and 2 other volunteers immediately fought their way through devastating fire and exploding grenades to reach the fallen soldier. Upon reaching their fallen comrade the sergeant was struck in the knee by machine gun fire and immobilized. Sp4c. Fernandez took charge, rallied the left flank of his patrol and began to assist in the recovery of the wounded sergeant. While first aid was being administered to the wounded man, a sudden increase in the accuracy and intensity of enemy fire forced the volunteer group to take cover. As they did, an enemy grenade landed in the midst of the group, although some men did not see it. Realizing there was no time for the wounded sergeant or the other men to protect themselves from the grenade blast, Sp4c. Fernandez vaulted over the wounded sergeant and threw himself on the grenade as it exploded, saving the lives of his 4 comrades at the sacrifice of his life. Sp4c. Fernandez' profound concern for his fellow soldiers, 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.
FLEEK, CHARLES CLINTON
Rank and organization : Sergeant, U. S. Army, Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Binh Duong Province, Republic of Vietnam, 27 May 1967.
Entered service at : Cincinnati, Ohio.
Born : 28 August 1947, Petersburg, Kentucky.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sergeant Fleek distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader in Company C during an ambush operation. Sergeant Fleek's unit was deployed in ambush locations when a large enemy force approached the position. Suddenly, the leading enemy element, sensing the ambush, halted and started to withdraw. Reacting instantly, Sergeant Fleek opened fire and directed the effective fire of his men upon the numerically superior enemy force. During the fierce battle that followed, an enemy soldier threw a grenade into the squad position. Realizing that his men had not seen the grenade, Sergeant Fleek, although in a position to seek cover, shouted a warning to his comrades and threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing its blast. His gallant action undoubtedly saved the lives or prevented the injury of at least eight of his fellow soldiers. Sergeant Fleek's gallantry and willing self-sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit and the U.S. Army.
FOLEY, ROBERT F.
Rank and organization : Captain, U. S. Army, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Near Quan Dau Tieng, Republic of Vietnam, 5 November 1966.
Entered service at : Newton Massachusetts.
Born : 30 May 1941, Newton, Massachusetts.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Captain 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. Captain Foley immediately ran forward to the scene of most intense action to direct the companies efforts. Deploying one platoon on the flank, he led the other two platoons in an attack on the enemy in the face on intense fire. During this action both radio operators 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 one 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 firs he ordered his assistant to take cover and alone, Captain 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, Captain 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. He led the assault on several enemy gun emplacements and, single-handedly destroyed three such positions. His outstanding personal leadership under intense enemy firs 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. Captain Foley's magnificent courage, selfless concern for his men and professional skill reflect the utmost credit upon himself and the United States Army.
GRANT, JOSEPH XAVIER
Rank and organization : Captain (then 1st Lt.), U.S. Army, Company A, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Republic of Vietnam, 13 November 1966.
Entered service at : Boston, Mass.
Born : 28 March 1940, Cambridge, Mass.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Company A was participating in a search and destroy operation when the leading platoon made contact with the enemy and a fierce fire-fight ensued. Capt. Grant was ordered to disengage the 2 remaining platoons and to maneuver them to envelop and destroy the enemy. After beginning their movement, the platoons encountered intense enemy automatic weapons and mortar fire from the front and flank. Capt. Grant was ordered to deploy the platoons in a defensive position. As this action was underway, the enemy attacked, using "human wave'' assaults, in an attempt to literally overwhelm Capt. Grant's force. In a magnificent display of courage and leadership, Capt. Grant moved under intense fire along the hastily formed defensive line repositioning soldiers to fill gaps created by the mounting casualties and inspiring and directing the efforts of his men to successfully repel the determined enemy onslaught. Seeing a platoon leader wounded, Capt. Grant hastened to his aid, in the face of the mass of fire of the entire enemy force, and moved him to a more secure position. During this action, Capt. Grant was wounded in the shoulder. Refusing medical treatment, he returned to the forward part of the perimeter, where he continued to lead and to inspire his men by his own indomitable example. While attempting to evacuate a wounded soldier, he was pinned down by fire from an enemy machine gun. With a supply of hand grenades, he crawled forward under a withering hail of fire and knocked out the machine gun, killing the crew, after which he moved the wounded man to safety. Learning that several other wounded men were pinned down by enemy fire forward of his position, Capt. Grant disregarded his painful wound and led 5 men across the fire-swept open ground to effect a rescue. Following return of the wounded men to the perimeter, a concentration of mortar fire landed in their midst and Capt. Grant was killed instantly. His heroic actions saved the lives of a number of his comrades and enabled the task force to repulse the vicious assaults and defeat the enemy. Capt. Grant's actions reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Army.
HALL, LEWIS
Rank and organization : Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, Company M, 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Mount Austen, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, 10 January 1943.
Entered service at : Obetz, Rural Station 7, Columbus, Ohio.
Born : 1895, Bloom, Ohio.
Citation : For gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty. As leader of a machinegun squad charged with the protection of other battalion units, his group was attacked by a superior number of Japanese, his gunner killed, his assistant gunner wounded, and an adjoining guncrew put out of action. Ordered to withdraw from his hazardous position, he refused to retire but rushed forward to the idle gun and with the aid of another soldier who joined him and held up the machinegun by the tripod to increase its field of action he opened fire and inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy. While so engaged both these gallant soldiers were killed, but their sturdy defense was a decisive factor in the following success of the attacking battalion.
HARTSOCK, ROBERT W.
Rank and organization : Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, 44th Infantry Platoon, 3d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Hau Nghia, Province, Republic of Vietnam, 23 February 1969.
Entered service at : Fairmont, W. Va.
Born : 24 January 1945, Cumberland, Md.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Hartsock, distinguished himself in action while serving as section leader with the 44th Infantry Platoon. When the Dau Tieng Base Camp came under a heavy enemy rocket and mortar attack, S/Sgt. Hartsock and his platoon commander spotted an enemy sapper squad which had infiltrated the camp undetected. Realizing the enemy squad was heading for the brigade tactical operations center and nearby prisoner compound, they concealed themselves and, although heavily outnumbered, awaited the approach of the hostile soldiers. When the enemy was almost upon them, S/Sgt. Hartsock and his platoon commander opened fire on the squad. As a wounded enemy soldier fell, he managed to detonate a satchel charge he was carrying. S/Sgt. Hartsock, with complete disregard for his life, threw himself on the charge and was gravely wounded. In spite of his wounds, S/Sgt. Hartsock crawled about 5 meters to a ditch and provided heavy suppressive fire, completely pinning down the enemy and allowing his commander to seek shelter. S/Sgt. Hartsock continued his deadly stream of fire until he succumbed to his wounds. S/Sgt. Hartsock's extraordinary heroism and profound concern for the lives of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
KAROPCZYC, STEPHEN EDWARD
Rank and organization : First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company A, 2d Battalion, 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Kontum Province, Republic of Vietnam, 12 March 1967.
Entered service at : Bethpage, N.Y.
Born : 5 March 1944, New York, N.Y.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While leading the 3d Platoon, Company A, on a flanking maneuver against a superior enemy force, 1st Lt. Karopczyc observed that his lead element was engaged with a small enemy unit along his route. Aware of the importance of quickly pushing through to the main enemy force in order to provide relief for a hard-pressed friendly platoon, he dashed through the intense enemy fire into the open and hurled colored smoke grenades to designate the foe for attack by helicopter gunships. He moved among his men to embolden their advance, and he guided their attack by marking enemy locations with bursts of fire from his own weapon. His forceful leadership quickened the advance, forced the enemy to retreat, and allowed his unit to close with the main hostile force. Continuing the deployment of his platoon, he constantly exposed himself as he ran from man to man to give encouragement and to direct their efforts. A shot from an enemy sniper struck him above the heart but he refused aid for this serious injury, plugging the bleeding wound with his finger until it could be properly dressed. As the enemy strength mounted, he ordered his men to organize a defensive position in and around some abandoned bunkers where he conducted a defense against the increasingly strong enemy attacks. After several hours, a North Vietnamese soldier hurled a hand grenade to within a few feet of 1st Lt. Karopczyc and 2 other wounded men. Although his position protected him, he leaped up to cover the deadly grenade with a steel helmet. It exploded to drive fragments into 1st Lt. Karopczyc's legs, but his action prevented further injury to the 2 wounded men. Severely weakened by his multiple wounds, he continued to direct the actions of his men until he succumbed 2 hours later. 1st Lt. Karopczyc's heroic leadership, unyielding perseverance, and selfless devotion to his men were directly responsible for the successful and spirited action of his platoon throughout the battle and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.
LAMBERS, PAUL R.
Rank and organization : Staff Sergeant, U. S. Army, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Tay Ninh Province, Republic of Vietnam, 20 August 1968.
Entered service at : Holland, Michigan.
Born : 25 June 1942, Holland, Michigan.
Citation : For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his own life above and beyond the call of duty. Staff Sergeant (then Sergeant) Lambers distinguished himself in action while serving with the 3rd Platoon, Company A. The unit had established a night defensive position astride a suspected enemy infiltration route, when it was attacked by an estimated Viet Cong Battalion. During the intense enemy fire, Staff Sergeant Lambers left his covered position, secured the platoon radio and moved to the command post to direct the defense. When his radio became inoperative due to enemy action, Staff Sergeant Lambers crossed the fire-swept position to secure the 90mm recoilless rifle crew's radio in order to re-establish communications. Upon discovering that the 90mm recoilless rifle was not functioning, Staff Sergeant Lambers assisted in the repair of the weapon and directed canister fire at point blank range against the attacking enemy who had breached the defensive wire of the position. When the weapon was knocked out by enemy fire, he single-handedly repulsed a penetration of the position by detonating claymore mines and throwing grenades into the midst of the attackers, killing four more of the Viet Cong with well aimed hand-grenades. Staff Sergeant Lambers maintained command of the platoon elements by moving from position to position under the hail of enemy fire, providing assistance where the assault was the heaviest and by his outstanding example inspiring his men to the utmost efforts of courage. He displayed great skill and valor throughout the five-hour battle by personally direction artillery and helicopter fire, placing them at times within five meters of the defensive position. He repeatedly exposed himself to the hostile fire at great risk to his own life in order to redistribute ammunition and care for seriously wounded comrades and to move them to sheltered positions. Staff Sergeant Lambers' superb leadership, professional skill and magnificent courage saved the lives of his comrades, resulting in the virtual annihilation of a vastly superior enemy force and were largely instrumental in thwarting an enemy offensive against Tay Ninh City. His gallantry at the risk of his own life is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the U.S. Army.
MARTINEZ, BENITO
Rank and organization : Corporal, U. S. Army, Company A, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Satae-ri, Korea, 6 September 1952.
Entered service at : Fort Hancock, Texas.
Born : 21 March 1931.
Citation : Corporal Benito Martinez, machine-gunner with Company A, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy near Satae-ri, Korea, on 6 September 1952. While manning a forward listening post forward of the manning line of resistance, his position was attacked by a hostile force of reinforced company strength. In the bitter fighting which ensued, the enemy infiltrated the defense perimeter and realizing that encirclement was imminent, Corporal Martinez elected to remain at his post in an attempt to stem the onslaught. In a daring defense, he raked the attacking troops with crippling fire, inflicting numerous casualties. Although contacted by sound power phone several times, he insisted that no attempt be made to rescue him because of the danger involved. Soon thereafter, the hostile forces rushed the emplacement, forcing him to make a limited withdrawal with only an automatic rifle and pistol to defend himself. After a courageous 6-hour stand and shortly before dawn, he called for the last time, stating that the enemy was converging on his position. His magnificent stand enabled friendly elements to reorganize, attack and regain the key terrain. Corporal Martinez's incredible valor and supreme sacrifice reflect lasting glory upon himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service.
McGAHA, CHARLES L.
Rank and organization : Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company G, 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Near Lupao, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 7 February 1945.
Entered service at : Crosby, Tenn. Birth: Crosby, Tenn.
Born :
Citation : He displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity. His platoon and 1 other from Company G were pinned down in a roadside ditch by heavy fire from 5 Japanese tanks supported by 10 machineguns and a platoon of riflemen. When 1 of his men fell wounded 40 yards away, he unhesitatingly crossed the road under a hail of bullets and moved the man 75 yards to safety. Although he had suffered a deep arm wound, he returned to his post. Finding the platoon leader seriously wounded, he assumed command and rallied his men. Once more he braved the enemy fire to go to the aid of a litter party removing another wounded soldier. A shell exploded in their midst, wounding him in the shoulder and killing 2 of the party. He picked up the remaining man, carried him to cover, and then moved out in front deliberately to draw the enemy fire while the American forces, thus protected, withdrew to safety. When the last man had gained the new position, he rejoined his command and there collapsed from loss of blood and exhaustion. M/Sgt. McGaha set an example of courage and leadership in keeping with the highest traditions of the service.
MILLETT, LEWIS L.
Rank and organization : Captain, U.S. Army, Company E, 27th Infantry Regiment.
Place and date : Vicinity of Soam-Ni, Korea, 7 February 1951.
Entered service at : Mechanic Falls, Maine.
Born : 15 December 1920, Mechanic Falls, Maine.
Citation : Captain Millett, Company E, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. While personally leading his company in an attack against a strongly held position he noted that the 1st Platoon was pinned down by small-arms, automatic, and antitank fire. Captain Millett ordered the 3d Platoon forward, placed himself at the head of the 2 platoons, and, with fixed bayonet, led the assault up the fire-swept hill. In the fierce charge Captain Millett bayoneted 2 enemy soldiers and boldly continued on, throwing grenades, clubbing and bayoneting the enemy, while urging his men forward by shouting encouragement. Despite vicious opposing fire, the whirlwind hand-to-hand assault carried to the crest of the hill. His dauntless leadership and personal courage so inspired his men that they stormed into the hostile position and used their bayonets with such lethal effect that the enemy fled in wild disorder. During this fierce onslaught Captain Millett was wounded by grenade fragments but refused evacuation until the objective was taken and firmly secured. The superb leadership, conspicuous courage, and consummate devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Millett were directly responsible for the successful accomplishment of a hazardous mission and reflect the highest credit on himself and the heroic traditions of the military service.
PARRISH, LAVERNE
Rank and organization : Technician 4th Grade, U.S. Army, Medical Detachment, 161st Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Binalonan, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 18-24 January 1945.
Entered service at : Ronan, Mont. Birth: Knox City, Mo.
Born :
Citation : He was medical aid man with Company C during the fighting in Binalonan, Luzon, Philippine Islands. On the 18th, he observed 2 wounded men under enemy fire and immediately went to their rescue. After moving 1 to cover, he crossed 25 yards of open ground to administer aid to the second. In the early hours of the 24th, his company, crossing an open field near San Manuel, encountered intense enemy fire and was ordered to withdraw to the cover of a ditch. While treating the casualties, Technician Parrish observed 2 wounded still in the field. Without hesitation he left the ditch, crawled forward under enemy fire, and in 2 successive trips brought both men to safety. He next administered aid to 12 casualties in the same field, crossing and re-crossing the open area raked by hostile fire. Making successive trips, he then brought 3 wounded in to cover. After treating nearly all of the 37 casualties suffered by his company, he was mortally wounded by mortar fire, and shortly after was killed. The indomitable spirit, intrepidity, and gallantry of Technician Parrish saved many lives at the cost of his own.
PETERSON, DANNY J.
Rank and organization : Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Tay Ninh Province, Republic of Vietnam, 9 January 1970.
Entered service at : Kansas City, Mo.
Born : 11 March 1949, Horton, Kans.
Citation : Sp4c. Petersen distinguished himself while serving as an armored personnel carrier commander with Company B during a combat operation against a North Vietnamese Army Force estimated to be of battalion size. During the initial contact with the enemy, an armored personnel carrier was disabled and the crewmen were pinned down by the heavy onslaught of enemy small arms, automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire. Sp4c. Petersen immediately maneuvered his armored personnel carrier to a position between the disabled vehicle and the enemy. He placed suppressive fire on the enemy's well-fortified position, thereby enabling the crewmembers of the disabled personnel carrier to repair their vehicle. He then maneuvered his vehicle, while still under heavy hostile fire to within 10 feet of the enemy's defensive emplacement. After a period of intense fighting, his vehicle received a direct hit and the driver was wounded. With extraordinary courage and selfless disregard for his own safety, Sp4c. Petersen carried his wounded comrade 45 meters across the bullet-swept field to a secure area. He then voluntarily returned to his disabled armored personnel carrier to provide covering fire for both the other vehicles and the dismounted personnel of his platoon as they withdrew. Despite heavy fire from 3 sides, he remained with his disabled vehicle, alone and completely exposed. Sp4c. Petersen was standing on top of his vehicle, firing his weapon, when he was mortally wounded. His heroic and selfless actions prevented further loss of life in his platoon. Sp4c. Petersen's conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroism are in the highest traditions of the service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
PITTS, RILEY L.
Rank and organization : Captain, U.S. Army, Company C, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
Place and date : Ap Dong, Republic of Vietnam, 31 October 1967.
Entered service at : Whichita, Kansas.
Born : 15 October 1937, Fallis, Oklahoma.
Citation : Distinguishing himself by exceptional heroism while serving as company commander during an airmobile assault. Immediately after his company landed in the area, several Viet Cong opened fire with automatic weapons. Despite the enemy fire, Captain Pitts forcefully led an assault which overran the enemy positions. Shortly thereafter, Captain Pitts was ordered to move his unit to the north to reinforce another company heavily engaged against a strong enemy force. As Captain Pitts' company moved forward to engage the enemy, intense fire was received from three directions, including fire from four enemy bunkers, two of which were within 15 meters of Captain Pitts' position. The severity of the incoming fire prevented Captain Pitts from maneuvering his company. His rifle fire proving ineffective against the enemy due to the dense jungle foliage, he picked up an M-79 grenade launcher and began pinpointing the targets. Seizing a Chinese communist grenade which had been taken from a captured Viet Cong web gear, Captain Pitts lobbed the grenade at a bunker to his front, but it hit the dense jungle foliage and rebounded. Without hesitation, Captain Pitts threw himself on top of the grenade which fortunately, failed to explode. Captain Pitts then directed the repositioning of the company to permit friendly artillery to be fired. Upon completion of the artillery fire mission, Captain Pitts again led his men toward the enemy positions, personally killing at least one more Viet Cong. The jungle growth still prevented effective fire to be placed on the enemy bunkers. Captain Pitts, displaying complete disregard for his life and personal safety, quickly moved to a position which permitted him to place effective fire on the enemy. He maintained a continuous fire, pinpointing the enemy's fortified positions, while at the same time directing and urging his men forward, until he was mortally wounded. Captain Pitts' conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism and intrepidity at the cost 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, his unit and the Armed Services of his country.
STUMPF, KENNETH E.
Rank and organization : Staff Sergeant (then SP4c.), U.S. Army, Company C, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division
Place and date :Near Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam, 25 April 1967.
Entered service at : Milwaukee, Wis. Birth: Neenah, Wis
Born : 28 September 1944
Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the 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 hand grenades, 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 hand grenade 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.
SUDUT, JEROME A.
Rank and organization : Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Company B, 27th Infantry Regiment.
Place and date : Near Kumhwa, Korea, 12 September 1951.
Entered service at : Wisconsin.
Born : Wausau, Wisconsin.
Citation : 2d Lt. Sudut distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. His platoon, attacking heavily fortified and strategically located hostile emplacements, had been stopped by intense fire from a large bunker containing several firing posts. Armed with submachinegun, pistol, and grenades, 2d Lt. Sudut charged the emplacement alone through vicious hostile fire, killing 3 of the occupants and dispersing the remainder. Painfully wounded, he returned to reorganize his platoon, refused evacuation and led his men in a renewed attack. The enemy had returned to the bunker by means of connecting trenches from other emplacements and the platoon was again halted by devastating fire. Accompanied by an automatic rifleman 2d Lt. Sudut again charged into close range fire to eliminate the position. When the rifleman was wounded, 2d Lt. Sudut seized his weapon and continued alone, killing 3 of the 4 remaining occupants. Though mortally wounded and his ammunition exhausted, he jumped into the emplacement and killed the remaining enemy soldier with his trench knife. His single-handed assaults so inspired his comrades that they continued the attack and drove the enemy from the hill, securing the objective. 2d Lt. Sudut's consummate fighting spirit, outstanding leadership, and gallant self-sacrifice are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Infantry and the U.S. Army.
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Articles & Briefings
