*HALSTEAD, LEE MICHAEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Lee Michael Halstead (0-94751), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Pilot
with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-SEVEN (HML-167),
Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN, First Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with
operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of
Vietnam. On 29 August 1968, Lieutenant Halstead was Aircraft Commander aboard
an armed UH-1E helicopter providing support for a UH-34 helicopter assigned to
evacuate three wounded Marines from an area southwest of DaNang in Quang Nam
Province. Seeking to determine the source of enemy fire, he boldly commenced a
low-level pass over the friendly position and immediately came under intense
hostile fire, which struck a box of ammunition in the crew's compartment. As
the evacuation helicopter prepared to land, Lieutenant Halstead skillfully
delivered covering fire on the hostile positions. Suddenly, the transport
aircraft was damaged by enemy fire and crash-landed in hostile territory 500
meters from the friendly unit. With complete disregard for his own safety,
Lieutenant Halstead commenced an approach to the disabled aircraft while
simultaneously expending all remaining rockets and delivering a heavy volume
of machine-gun fire around the damaged helicopter. Although the evacuation
aircraft was receiving intense enemy antitank rocket and small-arms fire, he
fearlessly continued his gallant efforts and executed a landing beside the
downed crew members. Despite the hostile fire impacting nearby, he steadfastly
remained on the ground until all the survivors had boarded his aircraft and,
skillfully maneuvering his dangerously overloaded helicopter through the
accurate fire, sustained additional damage as he departed the hazardous area.
His heroic actions and extraordinary aeronautical skill inspired all who
observed him and undoubtedly saved the lives of five Marines. By his courage,
intrepid fighting spirit, and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave
personal danger, Lieutenant Halstead sustained and enhanced the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Lansing, Michigan
HARRINGTON, MYRON C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Myron C. Harrington (0-81869), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as Commanding Officer for Company D, First
Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of
Vietnam. On the afternoon of 23 February 1968, Company D was attacking a well
entrenched North Vietnamese Army force that was occupying a fortified section
of the wall surrounding the Hue Citadel. As the Marines maneuvered forward,
they began receiving a heavy volume of small arms, automatic weapons, mortar
and antitank rocket fire. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Captain
Harrington skillfully deployed his 3.5 rocket teams into advantageous firing
positions. Continuously moving from one position to another, he pinpointed
enemy emplacements and skillfully directed the fire of his men. After
silencing four hostile positions, he requested supporting arms fire and
skillfully adjusted 60-mm. mortar fire to within twenty-five meters of the
forward elements of his company, while simultaneously adjusting artillery
fire. Disregarding his own safety, Captain Harrington then fearlessly
maneuvered to the point of heaviest contact and, rallying his men, boldly led
a determined assault against the enemy soldiers. Shouting words of
encouragement to his men, he skillfully maneuvered his unit forward and
directed the Marines' fire upon the hostile emplacements. Largely due to his
resolute determination and intrepid fighting spirit, his men overran the
hostile positions and routed the North Vietnamese soldiers, accounting for
twenty-five enemy soldiers confirmed killed. By his courage, superb leadership
and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger,
Captain Harrington upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the
United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Born: August 13, 1938 at Augusta, Georgia
Home Town: Charleston, South Carolina
*HARTSOE, DAVID EARL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to David Earl Hartsoe (2279897), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Machine Gunner with
Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced),
Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on the evening of 20 May 1967.
Company L was moving to bring a relief force to an embattled sister company
when it engaged a strong enemy blocking force. Private First Class Hartsoe
volunteered as point man to lead the company through the darkness to Company
K. The enemy opened up on the relief force, and he positioned his gun in the
foremost position. After a vicious fire fight the platoon was forced to
withdraw to regroup. Private First Class Hartsoe knew that without the fire
power of his gun, the platoon would be unable to recover the casualties and
carry them to safety. Calmly accepting the consequences of their action, he
and his team leader held their position under heavy automatic fire and a
barrage of grenades, delivering covering fire while the others pulled out of
the entrapped area. With complete disregard for his own safety, he held his
own position until mortally wounded. By his dauntless courage, indomitable
fighting spirit and loyal devotion to duty, Private First Class Hartsoe was
instrumental in saving several Marine lives and thereby upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Coatesville, Pennsylvania
HAYES, DANIEL J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Daniel J. Hayes (2422326), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader with Company L, Third
Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of
Vietnam. On 28 November 1968, Lance Corporal Hayes was directed to escort a
sniper to a tree line some distance forward of the company's defensive
perimeter and to provide security for the man while he was in position.
Utilizing what little natural cover was available, Lance Corporal Hayes
skillfully maneuvered his eight-man squad across an open rice paddy and was
into the tree line when the Marines came under a heavy volume of small arms
and automatic weapons fire from a numerically superior hostile force occupying
well-concealed emplacements. In the initial burst of fire, five Marines were
seriously wounded, including Lance Corporal Hayes. Ignoring his painful
injuries, he refused medical attention and provided covering fire while his
wounded companions were treated. Quickly deploying his men into covered
fighting positions, he directed their suppressive fire upon the enemy
soldiers. Observing a casualty being further subjected to hostile fire, he
unhesitatingly threw himself across the man's body to protect him from
additional injury. With exceptional tactical skill, he then regrouped his men
for an orderly withdrawal across the open terrain to the company lines and,
disregarding his own safety, provided covering fire for his squad. His heroic
and timely actions inspired all who observed him and undoubtedly saved the
lives of his Marines. By his courage, bold initiative, and selfless devotion
to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Lance Corporal Hayes upheld the
highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Billerica, Massachusetts
HAZELBAKER, VINCIL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Vincil W. Hazelbaker (0-63157), Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism while serving with Marine Observation Squadron TWO
(VMO-2), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN, First Marine Aircraft Wing during
operations against enemy forces in Vietnam on 8 August 1966. While flying in
support of ground operations in the vicinity of Ban Hieu, Major Hazelbaker
observed two unsuccessful attempts to deliver ammunition to a Marine reaction
force which had become surrounded by North Vietnamese forces. Realizing that
the supplies were needed desperately by the besieged ground force, Major
Hazelbaker daringly maneuvered his UH-1E helicopter through the darkness and
intense hostile fire and skillfully landed near the Marines' position. Without
regard for his own precarious situation, he re-supplied the ground unit with
three thousand rounds of his own supply of ammunition, and thereby provided
the defenders with temporary means of continuing their battle against
overwhelming enemy force. Returning to Dong Ha Airfield, Major Hazelbaker
courageously volunteered to return to the hazardous area with an additional
load of ammunition for the same troops. With keen airmanship and fortitude, he
again braved withering fire from North Vietnamese forces on all sides as close
as fifteen yards to the position. Shortly after he landed with eight hundred
pounds of direly needed ammunition, his aircraft was disabled by enemy fire,
and two of his crewmen were wounded. With exceptional presence of mind and
composure, Major Hazelbaker contacted the infantry unit and was advised that
their officers had been wounded or killed. Displaying superior professionalism
and firm leadership, he immediately assumed command of ground operations,
reorganizing the defense, supervising distribution of ammunition, ensuring
that the casualties were cared for and controlling supporting air strikes.
Largely as a result of his determined and gallant effort, the Marine unit was
able to break the impetus of the vicious enemy attack and maintain the
position until daylight, when retraction could be effected. By his
extraordinary courage in the face of extreme danger, bold aeronautical skill,
and unfaltering dedication to duty throughout, Major Hazelbaker upheld the
highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Grangeville, Idaho
HELLE, RONALD B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ronald B. Helle (2146818), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism while participating in a pacification operation in the vicinity of
Combat Base Baldy with his unit which was located in a popular force compound
in the Moo Bai District, Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 28 January 1971,
Sergeant Helle, an Artillery Scout and Observer with Company G, Second
Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, was sitting in the command post and talking with other members of his
unit and a newspaper correspondent. Stepping outside to make a routine check
of the area, Sergeant Helle was struck on the back by an object which he
quickly recognized to be a grenade. He then threw himself upon the missile and
alerted everyone to take cover, following which he stood up and hurled the
grenade out of the compound. By his prompt and courageous action in the face
of almost certain death or serious injury to himself and other men in the
vicinity, Sergeant Helle upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and
the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Toledo, Ohio
HENDERSON, BILLY K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Billy K. Henderson, Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism while serving as a Squad Leader with Company H, Second Battalion,
First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, during
operations against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam on the night of 17
July 1969. Occupying an ambush site when he spotted approximately twenty-five
enemy soldiers heading toward his squad's position, Lance Corporal Henderson
ordered his men to withhold their fire, surmising that the hostile group was
the lead element of a much larger force. He then arranged for an on-call
artillery fire mission. Later, when an approximately sixty additional hostile
soldiers emerged from the tree line and prepared to attack the command post,
Lance Corporal Henderson initiated the ambush and simultaneously called for
supporting artillery fire. While directing his squad's fire, an enemy grenade
landed among three of his companions. Reacting instantly, he threw himself on
the grenade to prevent injury to the other Marines. Fortunately, the grenade
failed to explode. Lance Corporal Henderson then stood upright and hurled the
missile into the enemy's ranks, following which he resumed his fire-directing
activities and called for fixed-wing air strikes until the enemy broke
contact, having suffered heavy casualties. By his outstanding personal valor,
aggressive leadership, and inspiring devotion to duty, Lance Corporal
Henderson was directly responsible for saving the other members of his squad
from probable serious injury or death. His courageous and heroic efforts
reflect great credit upon himself, and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Philadelphia, Tennessee
HENDRICKS, ROBERT L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert L. Hendricks (2235429), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as the 60-mm. Mortar Section Leader with
Company H, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against
insurgent (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 19
February 1968, Corporal Hendricks was directing the 60-mm. mortar section as
it conducted routine fire missions around the company perimeter when he
observed an object about the size of a hand grenade land approximately fifteen
feet from the mortar position. Locating the object, he found that it was a
rock and, reporting the incident to the command post, alerted personnel along
the defensive perimeter. A few minutes later, another rock landed on top of
the ammunition storage area to the front of the mortar position. Again,
Corporal Hendricks alerted those manning defensive positions and continued to
direct the fire missions. Fifteen minutes later, a fragmentation grenade
landed near the mortar position and only a few feet from two men sleeping on
the ground. Reacting instantly and with complete disregard for his own safety,
Corporal Hendricks jumped over the sandbag wall around the position, threw
himself on the armed grenade and shouted to his companions to take cover. When
all the men had reached safety and it appeared that the grenade would not
detonate, he removed the explosive device to a safe area where it was
destroyed. By his courage, bold initiative, and selfless devotion to duty at
great personal risk, Corporal Hendricks upheld the highest traditions of the
Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Los Angeles, California
*HERRERA, FELIPE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Felipe Herrera (2341619), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism while serving with Company A, First Reconnaissance
Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in
connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On
the afternoon of 20 September 1968, Corporal Herrera was the machine gunner of
a reconnaissance team operating near Thoung Due in Quang Nam Province when he
alertly observed a large hostile force maneuvering to attack the Marines.
Reacting instantly, he warned his comrades of the approaching enemy, and
almost immediately the patrol came under a heavy volume of hostile automatic
weapons fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Herrera
boldly moved from his position and fearlessly assaulted the enemy soldiers to
within ten meters of their location, killing six of the attackers and halting
their advance. Continuing his determined efforts, he resolutely remained in
his dangerously exposed position and delivered intense machine-gun fire
against the enemy until he was mortally wounded. His heroic and timely actions
inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in enabling his comrades
to gain fire superiority and deploy into advantageous defensive positions. By
his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and steadfast devotion to duty,
Corporal Herrera upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: San Antonio, Texas
*HERRON, LEE ROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Lee Roy Herron (0-102874), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as Executive Officer,
Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced),
Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 22 February 1969. While
patrolling north of the A Shau Valley in Quang Tri Province, the lead elements
of Company A came under intense fire and were pinned down by a large North
Vietnamese Army force. First Lieutenant Herron maneuvered one of his platoons
forward to reinforce the lead elements. When the second platoon commander was
seriously wounded, he immediately assumed command and quickly organized the
men into an assault force. Skillfully deploying his men, he led them in an
aggressive attack until halted and pinned down by an extremely heavy volume of
cross-fire from several enemy machine guns augmented by mortar,
rocket-propelled grenade, small arms, and automatic weapons fire from the
North Vietnamese emplacements, as well as numerous sniper positions in trees
in the dense jungle canopy. Undaunted by the hostile rounds impacting around
him, First Lieutenant Herron repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire as he
moved among his men to encourage them and urged them to inch forward to
positions from which they could deliver more effective return fire. Aware that
the fire from two mutually supporting hostile machine guns was holding his
Marines in place and preventing the removal of the casualties, he completely
disregarded his own safety as he exposed himself to North Vietnamese fire to
direct a light antitank assault round which scored a direct hit on one of the
machine gun bunkers. Boldly leaping to his feet, he fearlessly charged across
the fire-swept terrain to hurl hand grenades and fire his weapon against the
enemy emplacement, killing nine North Vietnamese soldiers who were in the
bunker. While directing his men in the assault on the remaining bunker, First
Lieutenant Herron was mortally wounded by enemy sniper fire. His heroic
actions inspired his men to such aggressive action in a coordinated company
attack that 105 North Vietnamese soldiers were killed and the large bunker
complex destroyed. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to
duty, First Lieutenant Herron upheld the highest traditions of the United
States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his
life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Lubbock, Texas
HILGERS, JOHN JACK WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Jack William Hilgers (0-74432), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Battalion Operations Officer of the Second Battalion,
Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in
connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 23
and 24 August 1966. During Operation PRAIRIE, when a company from Captain
Hilgers' battalion was attacked and surrounded by a numerically superior North
Vietnamese force in the Thon Son Lam area, he immediately realized the
seriousness of the situation and unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a reaction
force to the company's aid. The battalion's disposition and the nature of its
mission prevented dispatching one company as a unit, so a composite company
was quickly formed and heli-lifted into the area just after dark. After
analyzing the enemy's weaknesses, he fearlessly led his unit through 400
meters of enemy infested, dense, and unfamiliar jungle, dispatching one unit
to halt the enemy's attack and neutralize deadly automatic weapons fire on the
left flank. After joining the besieged unit, which was located in a
bowl-shaped depression, Captain Hilgers selflessly exposed himself to heavy
automatic weapons fire and grenades in order to move to the forward slope of
the position to direct his forces better and insure that the beleaguered unit
was obtaining the maximum support available. During the early morning hours of
24 August, the North Vietnamese launched three vicious assaults on the
position, threatening to annihilate the trapped company. The combined force,
under Captain Hilgers' inspiring and aggressive leadership, successfully
repulsed each attack, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. Throughout the
seemingly endless fourteen-hour battle, he repeatedly exposed himself to the
devastating enemy fire to direct and control fire support and encourage his
gallant fighting men. As a result of his heroic actions, the combined force
successfully defeated the enemy attacks and relieved the pressure on the
besieged company. By his outstanding leadership, fearless determination, great
professional skill, and unfaltering dedication to duty in the face of extreme
danger, Captain Hilgers reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine
Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Virginia Beach, Virginia
*HILL, LAMONT DOUGLAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Lamont Douglas Hill (2229088), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Machine Gunner serving with the
Weapons Platoon, Company I, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine
Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 6
March 1967. While conducting a company sweep near the village of Tan Lich in
Quang Tri Province, Private First Class Lamont Douglas Hill was attached to
the Third Platoon when it was subjected to heavy automatic weapons fire from a
well entrenched enemy. In the initial burst of enemy fire, he was fatally
wounded. However, realizing the gravity of the situation, Private First Class
Hill, disregarding his own serious and painful wound, manned his machine gun
and brought deadly, well aimed fire to bear on the enemy. Refusing medical
treatment, except when he stopped to reload his weapon, he provided covering
fire so that his wounded comrades could be moved to defiladed positions of
relative safety. Then he immediately shifted his weapon and began to provide a
base of fire on the entrenched enemy which enabled two squads of the platoon
to make a most successful assault, killing twenty of the enemy. Private First
Class Hill, succumbing to his wounds, fell unconscious upon his machine gun.
His heroic actions were responsible for saving the life of at least one Marine
and were instrumental in the defeat of the enemy with no further friendly
casualties. Private First Class Hill's courageous actions, aggressive fighting
spirit and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the
United States Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Massillon, Ohio
HOAPILI, JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Hoapili (1764433), Gunnery Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant], U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Platoon Commander with
Company K, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against the
enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 9 May 1968, Gunnery Sergeant Hoapili led
a patrol composed of two five-man teams into an ambush position in Quang Tri
Province. Arriving at the designated site, he skillfully deployed his two
teams into mutually supporting positions. Alertly observing numerous North
Vietnamese soldiers approaching his position, he immediately delivered a heavy
volume of fire against the enemy, killing two hostile soldiers and initiating
the ambush. After his men killed the remaining North Vietnamese, the Marines
were conducting a thorough search of the area when they suddenly came under
intense hostile fire. Reacting instantly, Sergeant Hoapili led his men to a
pre-designated rendezvous and established a perimeter defense. Pinpointing an
enemy machine-gun emplacement, he moved about the hazardous area, shouting
words of encouragement to his men and gathering numerous hand grenades.
Disregarding his own safety, he fearlessly rushed across the fire-swept
terrain hurling hand grenades at the hostile position. As he maneuvered
forward, he was knocked to the ground and seriously wounded when an enemy
grenade detonated near him. Ignoring his painful injuries, he regained his
feet and aggressively continued forward, delivering automatic rifle fire which
killed the North Vietnamese soldiers and silenced their machine gun. His
heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and forced the enemy
to break contact and flee. By his daring initiative, intrepid fighting spirit,
and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger,
Sergeant Hoapili contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's
mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United
States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii
*HODGKINS, GUY MERRILL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Guy Merrill Hodgkins (1490687), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with
Company I, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced),
Fleet Marine Force, near An Hoa, Republic of Vietnam on 3 September 1966.
While moving with the First Squad of his platoon, Sergeant Hodgkins came upon
fifteen Viet Cong retreating along a trail and an adjoining trench line, and
received heavy enemy automatic weapons fire. Reacting immediately, his men
returned fire, forcing the Viet Cong to break contact and flee. To prevent the
enemy's escape, he directed the squad in an aggressive pursuit of the Viet
Cong for two hundred meters. Desperately setting up a hasty ambush in and
around a concrete building, the enemy took cover and awaited their pursuers.
Sergeant Hodgkins was cautiously leading his men forward when they suddenly
received intense enemy fire, immediately sustaining three casualties. With
complete disregard for his own safety, he courageously advanced, under heavy
enemy fire, returning fire with a fallen Marines' weapon. Having expended all
his rifle ammunition, he boldly continued to advance and, with only a grenade
in each hand, assaulted the building from which the Viet Cong were delivering
their most effective fire. He fearlessly moved to within point-blank range
before throwing his grenades. His brave action resulted in three enemy deaths
and the neutralization of Viet Cong fire from the building. Having
accomplished his mission, he became the target of intense enemy fire and
grenades and was finally struck and mortally wounded. Sergeant Hodgkins'
heroic leadership, courage, and dedication to duty inspired his squad to
assault and rout the entire enemy force. This resolute fighting spirit and
great personal valor in the face of heavy odds reflected the highest credit
upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine
Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the
cause of freedom.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Los Alamos, New Mexico
HOFF, JOHN R., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John R. Hoff, Jr. (111172), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company E,
First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet
Marine Force, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the
Republic of Vietnam. On 7 April 1970, while leading a seven-man patrol through
a heavily jungled area southwest of DaNang, Second Lieutenant Hoff detected
signs of enemy soldiers in a hut and launched an aggressive assault, resulting
in the destruction of the hut and four enemy dead. Continuing his mission, he
led his men deeper into the confines of the camp where the Marines came under
a heavy volume of grenade launcher fire from enemy soldiers occupying
well-concealed emplacements. Although outnumbered, Second Lieutenant Hoff
seized the initiative and led a counterattack against the enemy, boldly moving
to a dangerously exposed vantage point from which he hurled hand grenades at
the hostile soldiers. As a result of his valiant efforts and the accurate fire
of his men, the enemy abandoned their positions and retreated. Shortly
thereafter, Second Lieutenant Hoff located a large cache of arms and
ammunition and was passing the supplies to his men when the patrol was
subjected to intense grenade launcher fire from enemy soldiers who had
maneuvered to a nearby position. Despite the rounds impacting around him,
Second Lieutenant Hoff tenaciously held his ground, hurling hand grenades and
delivering rifle fire with such accuracy that he accounted for several enemy
casualties and forced the remainder of the enemy to retreat. The
reconnaissance efforts of the patrol having now been seriously compromised,
Second Lieutenant Hoff led his men to a nearby suitable landing zone and
skillfully adjusted supporting Marine artillery fire around the site until
they were safely extracted the following morning. His heroic and determined
actions inspired all who observed him and contributed to the success of the
mission without sustaining a single Marine casualty. By his courage,
aggressive leadership, and unwavering devotion to duty, he upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Boston, Massachusetts
HOLMES, WALTER C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Walter C. Holmes (2050005), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for outstanding
heroism as a 60-mm. Mortar Section Leader serving with Company B, First
Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 December 1965. Sergeant Holmes was
providing support for a combat patrol in the vicinity of DaNang when a force
of sixty to eighty well-armed Viet Cong opened fire from concealed positions
about fifteen meters away. Situated thirty meters to the rear from where the
intense fire immediately felled several Marines, he fearlessly advanced toward
the guerrillas, who were positioned along high sand dunes. When the Viet Cong
attempted to overrun the patrol, Sergeant Holmes, with relentless fighting
spirit, stood his ground and fired with an accuracy that drove back the enemy
and provided cover for Marines who were maneuvering forward. Taking a mortar
and all the rounds he could carry from a casualty, he aggressively moved to
higher ground, directing twelve rounds, in a matter of seconds, at the fleeing
Viet Cong. With continued presence of mind, he organized a hasty defense and
prepared for medical evacuation and relief forces. By his exceptional courage
in the face of extreme peril, Sergeant Holmes saved the patrol from further
casualties and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the
United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri
*HONEYCUTT, JAMES EARL (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James Earl Honeycutt (2356099), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Third Force
Reconnaissance Company, Third Reconnaissance Battalion, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against the
enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 16 February 1968. While on patrol
southeast of Con Thien, Private Honeycutt's team established an ambush when
seven enemy soldiers were observed moving toward their position. During the
initial exchange of fire, one Marine was seriously wounded. Disregarding his
own safety, Private Honeycutt moved to an exposed area where he provided
covering fire for the Corpsman who was treating the injured man. After
annihilating the enemy force, the team moved toward a landing zone to evacuate
the casualty. As the team moved forward, they were taken under devastating
enemy small-arms, automatic-weapons and mortar fire from an estimated two
companies of North Vietnamese soldiers. In the initial burst of enemy fire,
three Marines were wounded. With complete disregard for his own safety,
Private Honeycutt moved across the fire-swept terrain to the side of an
injured comrade and administered first aid. He then provided covering fire and
assisted in moving the casualties across forty meters of fire-swept terrain to
a waiting evacuation helicopter. Displaying exceptional courage, he remained
behind to deliver a heavy volume of fire that suppressed hostile fire
sufficiently to allow the team to embark. Only after all were aboard did he
then embark. Realizing that a wounded man remained in the zone and that the
injured team leader had debarked to search the hazardous area, he
unhesitatingly jumped from the helicopter to aid his fellow Marines. Upon the
arrival of the second extraction aircraft, he then assisted his wounded
comrades aboard. By his bold initiative, intrepid fighting spirit and loyal
devotion to duty, Private Honeycutt reflected great credit upon himself and
the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Haynes, Arkansas
*HOPKINS, MICHAEL EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Michael Edward Hopkins (2037164), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as an Automatic Rifleman
with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 4 July 1966.
During a search and destroy operation, the company was taken under heavy
small-arms, automatic-weapons, and 57-mm. recoilless rifle fire from a
numerically superior Viet Cong force. When an LVT was hit by a 57-mm.
recoilless rifle round, Private First Class Hopkins immediately ran through
the hail of small-arms fire to aid the injured crew. After he had helped
remove the injured men from the LVT, he and three other Marines were sent to a
forward position in order to give covering fire. As the ammunition ran low,
Private First Class Hopkins repeatedly exposed himself to heavy enemy fire as
he ran across open ground to the supply point. After his sixth trip, he saw
his squad leader fall from wounds. Although exhausted from the heat and
carrying ammunition, he courageously exposed himself again to heavy incoming
fire in order to administer immediate first aid to his squad leader. As he was
treating the wounded Marine, he noticed a Corpsman attempting to maneuver to
his position. Seizing his rifle once again, he began giving covering fire to
enable the Corpsman to attain his objective. Seconds after the Corpsman
reached the location an enemy rifle grenade exploded nearby killing the squad
leader and wounding the Corpsman. Realizing that the enemy fire was too
intense for anyone to come to their aid, Private First Class Hopkins, in a
final valiant act of complete self-sacrifice, deliberately exposed himself in
an effort to direct attention away from the wounded, absorbing with his own
body the full force of the deadly enemy fire. Through his extraordinary
loyalty and initiative in the face of almost certain death, he saved his
comrades from further injury and possible loss of life, thereby upholding the
highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Born: December 23, 1944 at Norfolk, Virginia
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia
HOUGHTON, KENNETH J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth J. Houghton (0-13965), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine
Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam from 26
May to 5 June 1967. The Fifth Marine Regiment was launched on Operation UNION
II to track down the remnants of the 21st North Vietnamese Regiment, which had
been thoroughly decimated by them nine days previous. Responding to
intelligence reports that the enemy was attempting to withdraw to the western
mountains, Colonel Houghton committed two battalions in pursuit. The First
Battalion swept overland while the Third Battalion was enveloped by helicopter
near Cam La. The Third Battalion met with heavy resistance, but completely
overran the enemy positions, causing many casualties. He was constantly in the
operational area, bravely exposing himself to all the hazards of the
battlefield. Colonel Houghton revised his tactics when intelligence reports
indicated a much larger enemy force in the area, which was identified as the
3d North Vietnamese Regiment and pointed to a buildup along the Suio Cau Doi
River, in the vicinity of Vinh Huy (2). Instantly reacting, he launched his
attack from the east, with the First and Third Battalions abreast and the
Second in reserve. On 2 June, the First Battalion came under intense enemy
mortar, recoilless rifle and automatic weapons fire, indicating contact with
the main force of the 3d North Vietnamese Army force. While the First and
Third Battalions maintained heavy pressure on the enemy, he committed the
Second Battalion to assault the enemy's flank. Although wounded at this time,
he continued to aggressively advance on the enemy with renewed determination.
Colonel Houghton launched a bold night attack which smashed through the enemy
defenses, and annihilated the large enemy force. By his outstanding
leadership, gallant fighting spirit and bold initiative, he contributed
materially to the success of the FIRST Marine Division, thereby upholding the
highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Born: October 17, 1920 at San Francisco, California
Home Town: San Francisco, California
HOUSE, CHARLES ALNE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles Alne House (0-26690), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron
ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-THREE (HMM-163), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN, First Marine
Aircraft Wing, in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 9 and 10 March 1966.
Colonel House's helicopter was disabled by intense enemy fire in the landing
zone at A Shau, where the garrison had been under siege for several days.
After ensuring that all personnel had abandoned the aircraft, Colonel House
immediately rallied his crew members and joined a group of seventy exhausted
survivors of the garrison. With inspiring leadership and dogged determination,
he skillfully led the group into the jungle to escape capture. Chopping a
trail through the dense underbrush, he moved into the hills which surrounded
the outpost, cleverly maneuvering between hostile positions and successfully
evading enemy search patrols. Although the group was subjected to harassing
fire throughout the march, Colonel House managed to overcome the language
barrier and instill in the Vietnamese a sense of confidence and encouragement
which sustained them through the ordeal. With constant concern for the welfare
of the survivors, many of whom were wounded, he halted the march several times
to allow them to rest, stalwartly standing watch while others slept. When
helicopters were sighted and signaled on the following afternoon, Colonel
House's brilliant leadership motivated all who were able to help clear a
position from which the rescue was subsequently effected. His valiant effort
and determination throughout contributed in large measure to saving the
members of his crew and many Special Forces and Vietnamese defenders from
capture or death at the hands of the Viet Cong. By his intrepid fighting
spirit, extraordinary ability as a leader, and unswerving dedication to duty,
Colonel House upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United
States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: West Plains, Missouri
*HOWARD, BILLY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Billy Howard (554586), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism as Company Gunnery Sergeant, Company E, Second
Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, during Operation TEXAS in Quang Ngai Province, Republic of Vietnam on
21 March 1966. Upon arrival in its assigned helicopter landing zone, Company E
came under withering enemy small-arms and automatic weapons fire from three
directions. The volume and effectiveness of this fire forced the battalion to
modify its tactical plan and move Company E to a newly designated line of
departure. Braving heavy enemy fire, Gunnery Sergeant Howard moved from
heli-team to heli-team as they arrived in the landing zone providing
instructions for this re-disposition of forces. Once deployed on their
assigned line of departure, and upon completion of preparatory air and
artillery fires, Company E commenced an assault against the hamlet of Phuong
Dinh (2). After crossing an open rice paddy, and when within twenty-five
meters of the objective, Company E was struck with a vicious fusillade of
small arms, automatic weapons, recoilless rifle, and mortar fire. The volume
and intensity of the enemy fire immediately inflicted numerous friendly
casualties and had the majority of the company pinned down, unable to move in
any direction. Seeing his Company Commander trapped in heavy cross fire and
incapable of movement, Gunnery Sergeant Howard immediately seized the
initiative and dashed forward from a relatively secure position to the point
of furthest contact. With full knowledge that his life was in jeopardy, he
moved among the dead and wounded and supervised their evacuation to the rear.
In complete defiance of the enemy and braving certain death, he rallied his
fellow Marines to leave their covered positions and continue the assault. His
indomitable fighting spirit, fearless leadership, and outstanding courage
inspired his men to charge aggressively forward and destroy the enemy
fortifications. Mortally wounded during this assault, Gunnery Sergeant Howard,
by his great personal valor and unswerving devotion to duty, reflected great
credit upon himself, the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Hialeah, Florida
*HOWELL, GATLIN JERRYL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Gatlin Jerryl Howell (0-93190), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as
Intelligence Officer, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam from 2 to 7 July
1967. While manning the command bunker at Con Thien on 2 July, First
Lieutenant Howell was closely monitoring the progress of Company B, First
Battalion, as it became heavily engaged with an estimated two battalions of
North Vietnamese Army Regulars near the Demilitarized Zone. When the unit
suffered heavy casualties and was in danger of being overrun, he volunteered
to lead a relief force to rescue the beleaguered Marines. Displaying
exceptional leadership and tactical skill during his advance, he fearlessly
exposed himself to enemy mortar and small-arms fire as he kept the relief
column intact, pointing out directions of fire for the tanks and providing
effective flank security as he moved rapidly to Company B's position.
Immediately evaluating the situation when he arrived in the battle area, he
established a defensive perimeter and moved to rescue the forward elements of
the besieged company. As he searched for the wounded, he observed two men in a
hole fifteen meters beyond the friendly lines. With complete disregard for his
own safety, First Lieutenant Howell ran through heavy small-arms fire to treat
the men and carry them to the safety of the perimeter. When his right flank
was threatened by a North Vietnamese squad, he directed heavy fire against the
assaulting force, undoubtedly saving the lives of at least three injured
Marines caught between the enemy and the friendly lines. Subject to intense
enemy mortar and artillery fire and road mines that disabled two tanks, he
moved the casualties to the landing zone. After ensuring that the casualty
evaluation process was well under way, he refused medical treatment for
himself and instead returned to the forward area to determine that all of the
wounded had been moved. During a rocket attack on 7 July at Con Thien, First
Lieutenant Howell was killed in action. By his intrepid fighting spirit,
daring initiative, and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, First
Lieutenant Howell was instrumental in saving many of his fellow Marines from
capture, injury or possible death, and upheld the highest traditions of the
United States Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Colma, California
*HUBBARD, ROBERT WALKER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert Walker Hubbard (0-88752), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism while serving as an Advisor to the Revolutionary
Development Cadre, Thua Thien Province, in the City of Hue, Republic of
Vietnam, from 31 January to 4 February 1968. On 31 January, while carrying out
his advisory duties within the city of Hue, the quarters in which Captain
Hubbard was temporarily residing, together with two military and two civilian
personnel, came under intense enemy ground attack. Quickly assuming command,
he organized a defense against the repeated assaults from the enemy forces and
covered the front door along with two of his companions. Every attempt by the
enemy to overrun their strongpoint was thwarted, until finally, after two of
his group were seriously wounded, withdrawal was necessary. Quickly assessing
the situation, he braved the intense enemy fire while searching for a covered
route through which his group could withdraw. Despite the ever increasing
enemy fire, he elected to cover the withdrawal of his unit and inflicted
numerous casualties upon the enemy. During the ensuing days, the enemy
maintained almost complete control of the city of Hue, and Captain Hubbard's
group of men found it necessary to move from shelter to shelter to escape
death or possible capture. Although acting in the capacity as a civilian
advisor at the time of the Tet Offensive, Captain Hubbard's skill as a Marine
infantry officer instantly surfaced during this crisis. He was constantly
moving, administering to the wounded, foraging for food and water for his
companions, searching for assistance from friendly forces, and returning
deadly accurate fire on the enemy. On 4 February, with all food, water and
ammunition depleted, he led the group, armed only with a single hand grenade,
in an attempt to reach friendly forces south of the city. During this time he
was hit and mortally wounded by small-arms fire. By his brilliant leadership,
intrepid fighting spirit and exceptional fortitude, Captain Hubbard was
largely responsible for the escape of his fellow Americans. His outstanding
courage and valiant devotion to duty reflected the highest credit upon
himself, the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Auburn, Alabama
HUFFCUT, WILLIAM H., II
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William H. Huffcut, II (0-76752), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as a Pilot with Marine Observation
Squadron SIX (VMO-6), Marine Aircraft Group THIRTY-SIX, First Marine Aircraft
Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of
Vietnam. On the morning of 28 September 1969, Major Huffcut launched a
Tactical Air Controller (Airborne) aboard an aircraft assigned the mission of
conducting an aerial reconnaissance south of the Demilitarized Zone. Receiving
urgent request to support an infantry unit which was heavily engaged in combat
with a hostile force, he immediately proceeded to the designated area and was
informed by the commander of the ground unit that his men were pinned down by
machine-gun fire. Undaunted by the extremely heavy volume of enemy fire
directed at his aircraft, Major Huffcut executed repeated attacks and
delivered his ordnance with such devastating effectiveness that the hostile
fire was suppressed sufficiently to enable the Marines to move to a more
tenable position. When a flight of F-4 Phantom aircraft arrived, Major Huffcut
skillfully coordinated and directed accurate air strikes upon the enemy
emplacement, and carried out a series of strafing runs at right angles to the
attack aircraft, a tactic which effectively distracted the enemy from firing
on the Phantoms. As a result, the hostile machine gun emplacement was
destroyed. Shortly thereafter, he skillfully executed the same flight and
attack patterns on repeated passes which succeeded in destroying a second
enemy position. Subsequently responding to an emergency request to assist a
Marine reconnaissance team which was pinned down by a large enemy force, Major
Huffcut expertly maneuvered his aircraft on both simulated and live rocket and
strafing runs, and skillfully directed the air strikes of A-4 Skyhawk aircraft
which routed the enemy. By his dauntless courage, superb airmanship, and
unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Major
Huffcut inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the
Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Tallahassee, Florida
HUGGINS, MICHAEL A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Michael A. Huggins (2470841), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman
with Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with combat operations against
the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 27 June 1969, Private
First Class Huggins' fire team, having secured a landing zone northwest of
Fire Support Base Sierra in Quang Tri Province, was maneuvering up a hill when
he observed a North Vietnamese Army squad in an ambush position. Reacting
instantly, he skillfully deployed his men and initiated contact with the
enemy. Although painfully wounded by the initial burst of hostile fire,
Private First Class Huggins led his comrades in an assault against the enemy
positions. Courageously moving throughout the fire-swept terrain, he shouted
instructions and encouraged his men as he directed their fire at the enemy.
When a hostile hand grenade landed between him and another Marine, Private
First Class Huggins immediately picked up the grenade and threw it back at the
enemy where it subsequently exploded. Relentlessly pursuing his objective, he
continued his assault against the hostile bunkers, forcing the enemy to break
contact. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and
contributed significantly to the defeat of the North Vietnamese Army force. By
his courage, superb leadership and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of
extreme personal danger, Private First Class Huggins upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Indianapolis, Indiana
HUGHES, STANLEY S.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Stanley S. Hughes (0-12654),
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving
as Commanding Officer of the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against the
enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 3 February 1968. During Operation HUE
CITY, Colonel Hughes displaced his command post from Phu Bai to Hue along
National Route One through enemy controlled territory. Undaunted by the heavy
volume of hostile fire around him as he entered the besieged city, he rapidly
moved his men along the fire-swept streets to reach the Military Assistance
Command, Vietnam Compound. Moving to a vantage point on a roof top, he
directed accurate counter-mortar and sniper fire, effectively suppressing the
hostile fire in the area. He then maneuvered two battalions in an aggressive
assault against the enemy, repeatedly disregarding his own safety to move to
the areas of heaviest fighting to advise his commanders, encourage his men and
personally request and direct support arms fire. When the First Battalion,
Fifth Marines was attached to his regiment during heavy fighting, he
fearlessly crossed the footbridge over the Perfume River under heavy fire,
joining the command group at the Citadel to brief the unit commanders of the
tactical situation and remain abreast of the battalion's progress. He
repeatedly traveled across dangerously exposed areas to ensure the
availability and uninterrupted distribution of vital supply items and
equipment to his units. By his bold initiative, intrepid fighting spirit and
superior tactical skill, Colonel Hughes was instrumental in the defeat and
annihilation of a numerically superior enemy force, thereby reflecting great
credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upholding the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Rome, Pennsylvania
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)
HUNNICUTT, HUBERT H., III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Hubert H. Hunnicutt, III (2277992), Sergeant [then Corporal], U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism on 16 to 18 April 1968 as a squad leader in
Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced),
Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against enemy forces in the
Republic of Vietnam. Participating in the attack against an enemy bunker
complex on a hilltop near the Khe Sanh Combat Base when the battalion came
under heavy fire, seriously wounding his platoon commander, Sergeant Hunnicutt
treated the officer's wounds and then directed squad members into a bomb
crater to await a lull in the enemy activity. When Sergeant Hunnicutt
attempted to emerge from the crater, he sustained serious wounds along with
other members of his unit, and was unable to leave his position because of the
continuing enemy fire raking the area. At dusk he left the position and
crawled across the fire-swept terrain to secure medical aid for himself and
the other casualties trapped in the bomb crater. En route, Sergeant Hunnicutt
discovered his company commander lying in an open area, severely wounded.
While attempting to render aid and assistance to the officer, Sergeant
Hunnicutt was again wounded. Nonetheless, he was able to fire at the enemy
positions and to hurl hand grenades, eventually silencing their fire. At the
first rays of dawn, he managed to move the company commander to a covered
position and then proceeded to seek medical assistance but, overcome by
weakness from loss of blood, fell into a gully where he lay for several hours.
Alerted by the sound of an aircraft, he gathered his last remaining strength
and attracted the attention of the pilot who thereupon landed, placed Sergeant
Hunnicutt aboard the observation craft, and then relayed a message to pinpoint
the location of the company commander. By his indomitable courage, his
selfless concern for the safety and welfare of his fellow Marines, and his
inspiring devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming adversity, Sergeant
Hunnicutt upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United
States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Suwanee, Georgia
*FREDERICK, JOHN WILLIAM, JR. (POW)
*FRYMAN, ROY ALLEN
GALLAGHER, PATRICK
*GAUTHIER, BRIAN JAMES
*GETLIN, MICHAEL PETER
*GILLINGHAM, RICHARD KIRK
GOMEZ, ERNESTO
GREGORY, ROBERT B., JR.
GRESKO, RICHARD W.
GUARINO, TIMOTHY S.
GUAY, ROBERT P.
*JOHNSTON, CLEMENT B., JR.
*KELLY, JAMES RAYMOND, III
KENNEDY, JOHNNIE M.
*KOELPER, DONALD EDWARD
KOONTZ, LEONARD
KORKOW, KENNETH A.
