To
All Who Shall See These Presents Greeting:
This is to Certify that
The President of the United States of America
Takes Pride in Presenting
THE NAVY CROSS
to
SADLER, CHARLES D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles D. Sadler (2130908), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism as a Machine Gun Team Leader with the Third Platoon, Company A, First
Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 May 1966. Corporal Sadler's platoon
participated in a heli-lift to a position in order to block the withdrawal of
a large enemy force operating in the area. When the helicopters landed in an
open rice paddy, the area was immediately subjected to intense mortar and
automatic weapons fire from Viet Cong positioned on all sides of the landing
zone. More than twenty Marine casualties were inflicted in the first few
minutes of the savage action. With exceptional composure and presence of mind
in the tense situation, Corporal Sadler quickly took charge of his team and
began returning fire, fearlessly exposing himself to the enemy to accomplish
his task. When supplies of ammunition were depleted, he directed Marines
around him to retrieve that which had been carried by the casualties, and
twice he braved the withering fire to recover ammunition from wounded men who
were lying in the exposed rice paddy. On one occasion he spotted a Viet Cong
running from a tree line with a machine gun and reacting instantly, Corporal
Sadler stood in the midst of the grazing fire and fired his machine gun from
an offhand position, felling the enemy. Finding that only Five other Marines
in his immediate vicinity were not dead or wounded, he organized the small
group and on two separate occasions attempted to mount an assault against the
nearest Viet Cong position. Realizing the futility of further attempts, he
judiciously directed the men to dig in and save two magazines of ammunition,
ordered all rocket misfires to be stacked in the position for last second
detonation, and instructed his men to stand by for a probably physical assault
by the enemy. His daring initiative and relentless fighting spirit served to
inspire and encourage all who observed him, and were instrumental in
preventing the enemy from overrunning the position. His resolute effort
contributed in large measure to the eventual entrapment of the enemy force,
resulting in fifty-three Viet Cong killed and seventeen weapons captured. By
his extraordinary courage in the face of extreme danger, bold initiative, and
unwavering dedication to duty throughout, Corporal Sadler 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
*SAMPSON, GERALD HILBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Gerald Hilbert Sampson (245607597), Captain, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as Commanding Officer
of Company B, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with combat operations against
the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. In the early morning hours of 28 August
1969, Company B, occupying a night defensive position deep in hostile
territory northwest of Cam Lo, was assaulted by a large North Vietnamese Army
force employing automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades. In the
initial onslaught, the second platoon commander was wounded and his sector of
the perimeter was in grave danger of being breached by the enemy. With
complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Sampson moved across the
fire-swept terrain to the point of heaviest contact, rallied the beleaguered
Marines, and began to direct their fire against the advancing North
Vietnamese. During the fierce fire fight, he continually moved from one
fighting position to another, instructing and encouraging his men and ensuring
that the wounded received immediate treatment. While maneuvering across an
exposed area on the foremost edge of the perimeter, Captain Sampson was
mortally wounded by enemy fire. His unflagging determination and bold fighting
spirit inspired his men to heroic efforts and were instrumental in turning a
critical situation into an overwhelming Marine victory. By his leadership,
extraordinary courage and selfless devotion to duty, Captain Sampson 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: Williamsport, Pennsylvania
*SANDERS, THOMAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Thomas Sanders (2169627), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as a Machine Gun Squad Leader with Company C, Battalion
Landing Team 1/3, in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 May 1967. While
participating in Operation BEAVER CAGE, in Tinh, Quang Nam Province, Corporal
Sanders enabled his platoon to move from positions exposed to heavy automatic
and small arms fire, to a protected trench line, by advancing himself to an
exposed position with his squad's machine gun when all other members of the
squad became casualties. He then placed a heavy volume of accurate fire on
Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army troops causing them to cease fire. When
the enemy troops advanced to the cover of the trench line, in which other
members of his platoon were located, he placed himself between the enemy and
friendly troops. As the enemy approached to within six meters in front of him,
Corporal Sanders delivered machine gun fire down the long axis of the trench
line killing approximately two of them and wounding three others before he was
killed by enemy fire. As a result of his heroic conduct and fearless devotion
to duty, his actions enabled nine Marines, some of whom were wounded, to gain
cover in the trench line and to gain positions where grenades and M-79 fire
could be delivered on the enemy. By his outstanding courage, exceptional
fortitude and valiant fighting spirit, Corporal Sanders served to inspire all
who observed him and 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: East Elmhurst, New York
*SARGENT, GEORGE THOMAS, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to George Thomas Sargent, Jr. (0-51686), Lieutenant Colonel,
U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as Commanding
Officer of the First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against the
enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 20 March 1969, Lieutenant Colonel Sargent
was in command of a heliborne attack against enemy positions in Quang Nam
Province during Operation PURPLE MARTIN when the lead helicopter came under a
heavy volume of North Vietnamese Army fire, causing it to crash in the landing
zone. Directing the debarkation of the battalion at a smaller zone on the
slope of a hill below the designated area, Lieutenant Colonel Sargent took
command of the lead company, and after starting up the hill, the Marines
encountered a hostile force occupying a well-fortified position. As he led his
men in an aggressive assault against the enemy emplacements, Lieutenant
Colonel Sargent observed a machine gun which was pinning down a portion of his
unit. Fearlessly moving across the fire-swept terrain toward the North
Vietnamese emplacement, he boldly hurled several hand grenades, which killed
two hostile soldiers and destroyed the enemy weapon. Skillfully maneuvering
his men, he secured the slope of the hill, and early the following morning,
despite a fragmentation wound sustained during the previous day's engagement,
commenced the final assault against the enemy soldiers. During the ensuing
fire fight, the Marines were subjected to intense North Vietnamese mortar and
small-arms fire and rocket propelled grenades. Ignoring the hostile rounds
impacting near him, Lieutenant Colonel Sargent remained with the forward
units, effectively controlling the actions of his men and exploiting every
enemy contact to the maximum extent until he was mortally wounded. His timely
actions and aggressive leadership inspired all who observed him and were
instrumental in the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his courage,
intrepid fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel
Sargent 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: Auburn, Alabama
*SCHLEY, ROBERT JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert James Schley (2162020), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Machine Gun Team Leader with
Company M, Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced),
Fleet Marine Force, in the vicinity of Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province, Republic
of Vietnam, on 30 April 1967. During a search and destroy mission, Company M
was assigned the mission of seizing and securing Hill 881, a strategic area
commanding the approaches into the Khe Sanh complex. While advancing on the
numerically stronger, well-trained and equipped enemy in fortified positions,
Corporal Schley's squad was taken under a heavy volume of intense and accurate
enemy fire. Realizing the necessity of immediate counter action to suppress
enemy fire, he unhesitatingly advanced to position himself and his machine gun
team where they could deliver the most effective fire on the enemy. Due to his
accurate and well controlled fire, Corporal Schley was able to inflict
numerous casualties upon the enemy. As the intensity of the conflict increased
and the ammunition depleted, he exposed himself to intense enemy fire to re-
supply the gun. Painfully wounded in the shoulder during this task, he refused
medical attention and evacuation to return to his machine gun and continue
firing. Wounded a second time and finding himself the only member of his team
able to fight, he bravely continued to man his weapon until he succumbed to
his wounds. By his dauntless courage, initiative and indomitable fighting
spirit, he served to inspire all who observed him and 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: Oregon, Wisconsin
SCHREIBER, KLAUS D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Klaus D. Schreiber (100653), First Lieutenant [then Second Lieutenant],
U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Patrol Leader with Company
C, First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet
Marine Force, in Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam, on 14 October 1967.
While he was leading a twelve-man reconnaissance patrol, north of DaNang,
First Lieutenant Schreiber's patrol came under a devastating machine-gun and
automatic weapons attack from a numerically superior enemy force. The initial
burst of fire killed two men and wounded another. He repeatedly exposed
himself to the heavy enemy fire to position his men on line and direct their
fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he crawled forward, through
the intense enemy fire to bring back a fellow comrade who was mortally
wounded. When his radio operator was wounded, First Lieutenant Schreiber took
over the radio and established communications and tended the wounded man.
Hearing the cries of the frenzied Viet Cong, he ordered his men to deliver
full automatic fire into the oncoming enemy hordes. Observing that he was in
the most advantageous position to throw hand grenades, he ordered his men to
pass their grenades to him, and standing upright, in full view of the enemy,
hurled grenade after grenade into the frenzied enemy charge. Again, with
complete disregard for his own safety, he stood up to pinpoint his position,
amidst the enemy fire, enabling aircraft to bombard the enemy positions. He
called in napalm and strafing runs to within 25 meters of his position in an
attempt to neutralize the enemy force, which was trying to penetrate his
defensive position. For eight more hours, he directed earth-shattering air
support around his position, and the explosions from their ordnance hurled his
men to the ground. As the aircraft ordnance rocked the enemy positions, an
attempt was made for medical evacuation of the casualties, but because of
intense ground fire, he was forced to expose himself to enemy fire to warn off
approaching aircraft. As a company-sized reaction force pushed forward into
his position, he directed their fire and advance upon the enemy positions. By
his bold initiative, gallant fighting spirit and loyal devotion to duty, First
Lieutenant Schreiber was instrumental in defeating an estimated battalion of
North Vietnamese regulars, reflecting great credit upon himself and the Marine
Corps and upholding the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Dortmund, Germany
SCHUNCK, HENRY M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Henry M. Schunck (2248186), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism while serving as a Field Artillery Batteryman with Battery D, Second
Battalion, Thirteenth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet
Marine Force, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic
of Vietnam. On 10 May 1968, Corporal Schunck was a member of a detachment of
two howitzers at the United States Army Special Forces camp at Ngok Tavak in
Quang Tin Province. In the early morning hours, the camp was attacked by a
reinforced North Vietnamese Army battalion which attempted to overrun the
hill-top position. Corporal Schunck unhesitatingly left his covered post
adjacent to the command bunker and moved under intense fire to the 4.2-inch
mortar emplacement in the center of the compound. Although wounded in the leg
by grenade fragments en route, he resolutely continued to the mortar position
and attempted to deliver mortar fire single-handedly. Suddenly, he was
attacked by a North Vietnamese soldier armed with a flamethrower. Reacting
instantly, Corporal Schunck mortally wounded the enemy with accurate rifle
fire and then left the mortar emplacement to assist a comrade who had been
wounded while attempting to reach the mortar. After moving the casualty to a
covered position, he shifted to the 81-mm. mortar, and with the aid of a
companion, directed a heavy volume of fire against the attackers, inflicting
several casualties as they launched a concentrated attack on his position.
Although wounded a second time by grenade fragments, he selflessly disregarded
his painful injuries in order to continue bringing effective fire to bear
against the hostile force until his supply of ammunition was expended. Leaving
the emplacement, he moved along his unit's defenses, distributing ammunition
and moving casualties to the Fire Direction Center bunker for treatment.
Throughout the remainder of the engagement, until the enemy had been repulsed,
he continued to move along the defensive lines, encouraging and directing his
companions. Then, weakened from his wounds and near exhaustion, he accepted
evacuation. By his uncommon courage, unfaltering determination, and selfless
devotion to duty at great personal risk, Corporal Schunck upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: San Francisco, California
SCOTT, DONALD W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald W. Scott (1539245), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism while serving with Company D, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines,
THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of
Vietnam on 18 September 1966. As the company approached the village of Gia
Binh, the point was taken under attack and sustained many casualties; the
platoon commander was killed. After surveying the situation, Sergeant Scott
reacted quickly and alertly and without regard for his own personal safety as
he moved forward to aid the fallen men. Subjected to intense fire from enemy
automatic small-arms directed upon the wounded men, Sergeant Scott, on six
separate occasions, courageously worked his way up through the hail of enemy
fire and retrieved his dead and wounded comrades. When he himself was
painfully wounded, he refused medical attention and went back to retrieve the
last of his dead men. On his last trip into the village he was again wounded,
but continued on beyond the point required by duty and succeeded in recovering
the body of a fellow Marine. Through his daring and courageous actions in the
face of almost certain death, and while seriously wounded, Sergeant Scott
personally saved the lives of three Marines, and recovered the bodies of three
of his fallen comrades. By his daring initiative, valiant fighting spirit and
selfless devotion to duty, Sergeant Scott 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: Birmingham, Alabama
SEE, ROGER D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Roger D. See (2382260), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism in action as a Patrol Leader with Company A, Third Reconnaissance
Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, during
combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 8 June
1969, while his six-man reconnaissance team was establishing an observation
post, Corporal See observed two enemy soldiers in proximity to the Marine
position and took them under fire. During the exchange of fire both enemy
soldiers were wounded, one of whom was captured by Corporal See. With the
enemy force now in close pursuit, Corporal See picked up the wounded prisoner
and began carrying him to the helicopter extraction site. During this action,
he was wounded in the thigh, but managed to regain his feet and continue
toward the extraction site. When another Marine coming to his assistance was
seriously wounded, Corporal See remained in a dangerously exposed position to
treat his companion's wounds and to administer mouth-to-mouth resuscitation in
a futile effort to save the man's life. After his comrade succumbed to his
wounds, Corporal See seized the grenade launcher the Marine had been carrying
and delivered covering fire for his men. When he had expended all the
grenades, he utilized his rifle and a weapon dropped by an enemy soldier until
he had fired every round available, and then painfully maneuvered to join his
team on the hill. As the unit attempted to attain the crest, the Marines were
subjected to intense fire from a bunker position. Corporal See crawled across
an exposed area and silenced the fire by dropping a fragmentation grenade
through an aperture at the top of the position. When an extraction helicopter
arrived on station and approached for a landing, intensified fire from hostile
positions around the hill forced the pilot to lift off. Until the early
morning hours of the following day when a successful extraction became
possible, Corporal See, despite the pain of his wound, continually patrolled
the defensive perimeter to encourage his men, ascertain their welfare and
direct their fire. By his courage, valiant leadership, and unfaltering
devotion to duty in the face of seemingly overwhelming odds, he contributed
significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's intelligence 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: Indianapolis, Indiana
SEXTON, CHARLES T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles T. Sexton (2461865), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism while serving as a Radio Operator with the Third Force Reconnaissance
Company, Third Marine Amphibious Force, in connection with combat operations
against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 5 February 1970, Corporal
Sexton was a member of a six-man reconnaissance team which was patrolling deep
in the A Shau Valley when it came under a heavy volume of small arms and
automatic weapons fire from approximately fifty enemy soldiers occupying
well-concealed emplacements in the dense elephant grass. During the initial
moments of the attack, three Marines were mortally wounded and two were
seriously wounded. After a rapid assessment of the precarious situation,
Corporal Sexton directed the fire of his two wounded companions and moved
about the fire-swept area to collect hand grenades and ammunition from his
fallen comrades. Utilizing his radio, he then reported the situation to his
commanding officer and requested assistance. For the next several hours, while
the enemy attempted to encircle and overrun his position, Corporal Sexton
repeatedly adjusted helicopter and fixed-wing air strikes on the hostile unit,
hurled hand grenades, shouted encouragement to his wounded companions, and
simultaneously furnished a running commentary to his company commander until a
reaction force arrived to lend support. His heroic and determined actions were
an inspiration to all who served with him and undoubtedly saved his fellow
Marines from further serious injury or even death. By his courage, superb
leadership, and valiant devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger,
Corporal Sexton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the
United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Columbia, South Carolina
SEXTON, HARRY E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harry E. Sexton (0-64225), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as Commanding Officer of Marine Light
Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-SEVEN (HML-367), Marine Aircraft Group
SIXTEEN, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations
against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 11 September 1970, Lieutenant
Colonel Sexton launched as Flight Leader of a flight of nine helicopters
assigned the mission of inserting a friendly force into a mountainous area
deep in enemy-controlled territory which was heavily defended by enemy
antiaircraft weapons. Shortly after arriving over the designated area, the
entire flight came under an extremely heavy volume of enemy fire, damaging
each of the gunships and the lead transport. Lieutenant Colonel Sexton
maneuvered his aircraft on repeated rocket and strafing runs and led his
flight in delivering such devastatingly effective strikes upon the hostile
positions that the enemy fire was suppressed sufficiently to enable the
friendly force to be safely inserted. By 13 September, the ground unit had
sustained approximately twenty casualties while heavily engaged with a North
Vietnamese Army force and requested an emergency extraction. Returning to the
beleaguered unit, Lieutenant Colonel Sexton braved the intense hostile fire as
he skillfully coordinated the extraction efforts of twenty-two Marine and
United States Army and Air Force aircraft which resulted in the safe medical
evacuation of all of the casualties and the extraction of the crew of one of
the transports which was forced to land in a nearby open area when severely
damaged by enemy fire. When it became apparent the following day that the
ground force required an immediate extraction, Lieutenant Colonel Sexton
expertly directed the laying down of smoke screens and the rocket and strafing
runs of his gunship helicopters, thereby enabling the transports to enter the
dangerous area and safely extract the friendly force. Although his helicopter
was seriously damaged by hostile fire, he resolutely remained in the battle
area until his extraction mission was completed and then skillfully maneuvered
his crippled aircraft to safety. By his dauntless courage, superb airmanship,
and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger,
Lieutenant Colonel Sexton 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: Anaheim, California
SEXTON, MERLYN A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Merlyn A. Sexton (0-91890), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism while serving as Commanding Officer, Company I, Third Battalion,
Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in
connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from
19 June to 8 July 1968. Captain Sexton was assigned to defend a ridgeline
overlooking National Route One approximately 2,000 meters southeast of the Khe
Sanh Combat Base. Despite sporadic mortar and artillery attacks, he
established a strong perimeter, developed a fire plan, and conducted offensive
patrols throughout the surrounding area. On the night of 30 June, when his
position came under attack by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army
force supported by rocket, artillery, and mortar fire, Captain Sexton quickly
directed well coordinated supporting arms fire against the hostile positions
and consolidated his perimeter. When the enemy penetrated a sector of the
protective wire, he fearlessly moved to the point of heaviest contact, rallied
his men, and directed their fire against the enemy. Disregarding his own
safety, he skillfully adjusted highly accurate artillery fire around the
perimeter, forcing the hostile force to break contact and withdraw. Throughout
the night, Captain Sexton continued to direct supporting arms fire against the
retreating enemy and, on the following morning, dispatched patrols to search
out and destroy hidden hostile positions. During the day, he adjusted air
strikes by helicopter gunships and fixed-wing aircraft against the enemy's
withdrawal routes until assured that his vital position was secure. His
sustained heroism in the face of a numerically superior, determined North
Vietnamese Army force inspired all who observed him and contributed
immeasurably to his unit accounting for 212 North Vietnamese soldiers
confirmed killed and 77 weapons seized. By his courage, intrepid fighting
spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk, Captain Sexton
upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval
Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Chamberlain, South Dakota
*SHERMAN, ANDREW MARCO
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Andrew Marco Sherman (0-97870), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Platoon Commander, Second Platoon,
Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, northwest of Cam Lo in Quang Tri Province,
Republic of Vietnam, on 8 August 1966. In carrying out its assigned mission of
assisting in the evacuation of a reconnaissance team which was surrounded by
North Vietnamese, Second Lieutenant Sherman's platoon was attacked on two
sides in great strength and rapidly encircled; heavy automatic weapons fire
and grenades inflicted fifty percent casualties upon them. With the North
Vietnamese force threatening to overrun the position, Second Lieutenant
Sherman, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved about through
extremely heavy rifle and automatic weapons fire in full view of the enemy,
directing the fire fight and giving encouragement to his men. The viciousness
of the assault by the North Vietnamese pushed the defenders into tenuous
secondary positions. Second Lieutenant Sherman, undeterred by the five-to-one
odds, rallied his remaining men and led a counterattack back across forty
meters of open, fire-swept terrain, and regained the original positions. By
this time, the force had suffered sixty percent casualties and the situation
was deteriorating rapidly. Repeated attempts at evacuation were thwarted by
the loss of four helicopters. Second Lieutenant Sherman bravely continued to
move from position to position deploying his weapon, and shouting orders and
words of encouragement until he was mortally wounded. By his valiant
leadership, outstanding courage, and stirring example in the face of
tremendous odds, he inspired his men and gave them the spirit to repulse the
enemy and crush the attack. His steadfast devotion to duty was in keeping with
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: Doylestown, Ohio
*SIPPLE, CONRAD ALAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Conrad Alan Sipple (2043729), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism as a Squad Leader with Company C, Second Battalion,
Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the
Republic of Vietnam, on 5 March 1966. The company was engaged in operations
against insurgent communist forces in the vicinity of An Tuyet, Quang Ngai
Province, when Corporal Sipple's platoon came under extremely heavy small-arms
and automatic weapons fire from Viet Cong forces entrenched on a commanding
ridgeline. Numerous casualties were inflicted on the platoon and many fell in
areas exposed to annihilating fire. With full knowledge of the hazards
involved and with complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Sipple
braved the fierce, hostile fire repeatedly to assist in the evacuation of
wounded Marines. Oblivious to the unrelenting fusillade of automatic weapons
fire, he braved the storm alone on two occasions to assist wounded comrades to
safety. On two other occasions he returned into the vicious enemy fire to
assist others in the evacuation of seriously wounded comrades who had to be
carried bodily from the extremely hazardous area. On his fourth sally into the
furious hail of enemy fire he was mortally wounded. Through his outstanding
initiative and inspiring valor in the face of great personal risk he saved his
comrades from further injury or possible loss of life. He gallantly gave his
life in the cause of freedom.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Salem, Indiana
*SIROUSA, MICHAEL ANGELO
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Michael Angelo Sirousa (332383951), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader
with Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with combat operations against
the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 12 February 1970, Company C was
moving as a reaction force to support another Marine unit which was heavily
engaged in combat with a hostile force in Quang Nam Province. While moving
across a stream, the point squad came under intense small arms and automatic
weapons fire from an enemy unit well entrenched on the opposite bank, wounding
several Marines and pinning the squad down on a sandbar in the middle of the
stream. Reacting instantly, Private First Class Sirousa skillfully maneuvered
his squad to firing positions along the river bank and directed the delivery
of maximum fire at the enemy positions. Realizing that the amount of fire
delivered by Marines along the bank was insufficient to suppress the hostile
fire, he gathered as many hand grenades as he could carry and rushed across
the stream in a valiant one-man assault on the enemy positions. Firing his
rifle and hurling hand grenades, he continued his gallant efforts, despite the
concentration of hostile fire directed at him, until he was mortally wounded.
His dauntless fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and was greatly
instrumental in the defeat of the enemy. By his courage, bold initiative, and
unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Sirousa upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
*SKIBBE, DAVID WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to David William Skibbe (332388613), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Platoon
Commander with Company C, First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine
Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with combat
operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 2 March 1970,
while Second Lieutenant Skibbe was leading a patrol deep in enemy-controlled
territory, the team came under a heavy volume of fire from a large hostile
force. During the initial moments of the engagement, Second Lieutenant Skibbe
observed a wounded man fall in a forward position, and unhesitatingly placed
himself between the casualty and enemy soldiers to deliver intense covering
fire which forced the enemy momentarily to break contact and enabled the
Marines to move the wounded man to a more secure location. While the radio
operator was requesting fixed-wing air support, the enemy launched a ground
assault in an attempt to overrun the Marine position. Despite the hostile
rounds impacting around him, Second Lieutenant Skibbe exposed himself to the
enemy fire to direct the defensive activities of his men and, while thus
engaged, was severely wounded in the ankle. Although suffering intense pain
and unable to walk, he nevertheless skillfully directed the bombing and
strafing runs of supporting aircraft with such accuracy that the hostile
soldiers broke contact and retreated, thereby enabling a medical evacuation
helicopter to come to a safe hover overhead. As Second Lieutenant Skibbe was
being hoisted toward the aircraft, the hoist apparatus sustained a
malfunction, and he was mortally injured when he fell to the ground. His
heroic and determined actions throughout this mission contributed
significantly to the defeat of the numerically superior enemy force. By his
courage, valiant leadership, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of
grave personal danger, Second Lieutenant Skibbe upheld the highest traditions
of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life in the service of his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Des Plaines, Illinois
SKWERES, JEFF C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jeff C. Skweres, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR
(HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN, First Marine Aircraft Wing, in
connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of
Vietnam. On the evening of 1 June 1970, Corporal Skweres launched as an Aerial
Gunner aboard a transport helicopter assigned the medical evacuation of
several Marine casualties who had been extensively wounded by enemy mines.
Arriving over the designated location, he observed that, when the tall
elephant grass was parted by the downdraft from the rotor blades, the entire
field was literally seeded with mines. Despite this extreme hazard, Corporal
Skweres unhesitatingly volunteered to execute a bold and imaginative plan
whereby he would be lowered on the hoist, wait on the spot while a wounded man
was lifted to the aircraft and then board the hoist to be moved to where the
next casualty lay. For approximately an hour, Corporal Skweres valiantly moved
from one stricken man to another in performing his rescue mission. With the
fall of darkness, it was necessary to utilize the exterior lights to aid in
his examination of the casualties and he thus became a vulnerable target for
automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenade fire which enemy soldiers
delivered from several different directions. Undaunted by this additional
adversity, he steadfastly continued his determined efforts with calm
deliberation until all casualties had been embarked and the transport
helicopter was directed toward the nearest medical facilities at DaNang. By
his courage, inspiring initiative, and unfaltering devotion to duty in the
face of grave personal danger, Corporal Skweres was instrumental in
accomplishing an extremely dangerous lifesaving mission and 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: Madera, California
SLATER, ALBERT C., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Albert C. Slater, Jr. (0-84435), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer, Company A, First Battalion, Ninth
Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, during
Operation BUFFALO in the Republic of Vietnam on 6 - 7 July 1967. In command of
both Companies A and C, Captain Slater moved his forces into a strategic
position north of Con Thien. Shortly before dark, the companies came under
extremely heavy barrages of enemy artillery and mortars. During the barrages,
Captain Slater fearlessly maneuvered his command into a perimeter where it
could counter the attack he was certain would come. With full knowledge of the
hazards involved, he ignored the heavy barrages of enemy artillery and
personally checked each position to insure that they were secure. When the
attack came, by an estimated two battalions of the North Vietnamese Army,
Captain Slater unhesitatingly moved to an exposed position where he could
properly control the situation. He repeatedly exposed himself to the withering
enemy fire in order to better observe the air and artillery support he
coordinated for his now surrounded command. For six hours, Captain Slater,
with complete disregard for his own personal safety and with full composure
and presence of mind, moved from one exposed position to another, giving
encouragement and directing the men of his command. He aggressively employed
all available fire and personally led his men in hand-to-hand combat through
extremely dense underbrush which reduced the action to a man-to-man struggle.
Throughout the entire night, Captain Slater, although constantly exposed to
enemy artillery, mortars, grenades, and small-arms fire, was always at a
strategic point of contact directing his unit and encouraging his men. By his
courage, tenacity, and outstanding leadership, Captain Slater brought
stability to an otherwise untenable situation, which resulted in at least two
hundred North Vietnamese regulars killed with small losses to his command.
Captain Slater's daring actions and loyal devotion to duty in the face of
great personal risk 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: Venice, California
SLATER, ROBERT M. S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert M. S. Slater (0-99864), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as a Staff Advisor, U.S. Marine Corps, in the Republic
of Vietnam from 5 to 11 January 1968. Lieutenant Slater, at the risk of his
life, above and beyond the call of duty, volunteered to undertake a hazardous
mission into enemy territory to gather vital intelligence. On 6 January he was
inserted for the first time and successfully brought back essential
intelligence. Due to the success of his first mission, he volunteered to go
back a second time for additional information. With full knowledge of the
continuing possibility of imminent capture or death, he returned again into
enemy territory and brought back a great amount of invaluable intelligence.
With great courage, he returned for a third and final mission. Although his
chances for survival were slim he again successfully brought back the vitally
needed intelligence. Lieutenant Slater's extraordinary heroism resulted in
extremely heavy materiel damage and personnel casualties to the enemy and led
to the saving of many American and South Vietnamese lives, both military and
civilian. His courageous actions and loyal devotion to duty were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval
Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Buffalo, New York
*SLEIGH, DUNCAN BALFOUR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Duncan Balfour Sleigh (0-105657), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a platoon commander in
Company M, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam,
on 6 November 1968. The company advanced in a sweep operation south of Hill 55
where it encountered a large North Vietnamese Army force and sustained heavy
casualties at the first bitter engagement. The well entrenched enemy kept the
company pinned down with rocket propelled grenades and heavy small-arms and
automatic-weapons fire, making evacuation of casualties a hazardous chore. As
the company pressed the attack, the wounded and dead were moved toward the
rear where Second Lieutenant Sleigh was directing the establishment of a
landing zone. Taking charge of the critical situation, Second Lieutenant
Sleigh strategically deployed his men to return suppressive fire and at the
same time maintained control of the evacuation. Two helicopter landings were
attempted, and on the second effort a rocket propelled grenade landed near the
wounded who were being treated. Observing the danger to the wounded, Second
Lieutenant Sleigh crawled to one casualty and lay huddled over him as a shield
when another rocket propelled grenade landed less than a meter away, instantly
killing Second Lieutenant Sleigh. He thus absorbed most of the shock with his
body, not only saving the life of one Marine, but also preventing injury to
others near him. His valiant leadership and courageous fighting spirit
inspired all the men of the company who observed his last brave act. Second
Lieutenant Sleigh's heroism reflected great credit upon himself and the 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: Marblehead, Massachusetts
SLIBY, DENNIS M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Dennis M. Sliby (2209054), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company A,
First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet
Marine Force, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic
of Vietnam. On 30 March 1968, during Operation HOUSTON, Corporal Sliby's
company deployed into defensive positions around several vital bridges in the
Phu Bai area. Early the following morning, the company command post, located
at the Troui River Bridge in Phu Loc District, came under a heavy mortar and
rocket attack followed by a ground assault by two North Vietnamese army
companies. Without hesitation, Corporal Sliby rallied his fire team and
directed a heavy volume of accurate fire against the enemy. In the ensuing
attack, he aggressively maneuvered his men from one position to another in an
effort to seize a bunker which had been overrun by the enemy. As he was moving
his team into a position to deliver fire into the emplacement, the enemy threw
a grenade which landed among his men. With complete disregard for his own
life, Corporal Sliby covered the grenade with his body, shielding his
companions from the blast. Even though critically wounded, he shouted words of
encouragement to his men and directed them into a secure position before
crawling, unassisted, to the platoon command post for aid. His timely and
selfless actions inspired all who observed him and undoubtedly saved the lives
of his men. By his extraordinary courage, bold initiative, and unwavering
devotion to duty at great personal risk, Corporal Sliby upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Boston, Massachusetts
SMITH, RAY L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ray L. Smith (102290), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism during the period 30 March to 1 April 1972 while serving as advisor to
a Vietnamese Command group numbering approximately 250 Vietnamese Marines
located on a small hilltop outpost in the Republic of Vietnam. With the
Command Group repulsing several savage enemy assaults, and subjected to a
continuing hail of fire from an attacking force estimated to be of
two-battalion strength, Captain Smith repeatedly exposed himself to the heavy
fire while directing friendly air support. When adverse weather conditions
precluded further close air support, he attempted to lead the group, now
reduced to only 28 Vietnamese Marines, to the safety of friendly lines. An
enemy soldier opened fire upon the Marines at the precise moment that they had
balked when encountering an outer defensive ring of barbed wire. Captain Smith
returned accurate fire, disposing of the attacker, and then threw himself
backwards on top of the booby-trap-infested wire barrier. Swiftly, the
remaining Marines moved over the crushed wire, stepping on Captain Smith's
prostrate body, until all had passed safely through the barrier. Although
suffering severe cuts and bruises, Captain Smith succeeded in leading the
Marines to the safety of friendly lines. His great personal valor and
unrelenting devotion to duty reflected the highest credit upon himself, the
Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Shidler, Oklahoma
*SNYDER, STEPHEN FRANCIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Stephen Francis Snyder (0-93446), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Platoon Commander, Third
Platoon, Company F, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Thon Son Lam area, Quang Tri
Province, Republic of Vietnam, on 23 and 24 August 1966. Volunteering to
attempt to relieve a trapped platoon, Second Lieutenant Snyder unhesitatingly
led his platoon in a daring night march through unfamiliar, dense,
enemy-infested jungle terrain. Upon arrival at the besieged platoon's
position, he fearlessly took a small group into the trap to assist in
evacuating wounded from the enemy-dominated location. Though met with a deadly
hail of enemy grenades and small-arms fire, he managed to direct the
evacuation of two wounded under the cover of darkness. For the next two hours,
with complete disregard for his own safety, he selflessly exposed himself to
intense fire while he directed suppressive fires which delayed the enemy
assault. When the North Vietnamese finally attacked at dawn, Second Lieutenant
Snyder heroically led his platoon in a determined counterattack in an effort
to protect the trapped men. Undeterred by the murderous enemy grenade barrages
and automatic weapons and sniper fire, he courageously led his men forward
until he was mortally wounded. Second Lieutenant Snyder's stirring example,
exceptional leadership, and marked courage were the determining factor in
breaking the enemy assault and saved the lives of the trapped Marines. His
great personal valor reflected great credit upon himself and was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval
Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Sunbury, Pennsylvania
*SOLIZ, THOMAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Thomas Soliz (2180067), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as a Radio Operator with Company A, First
Amphibian Tractor Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in Quang Tri Province in the Republic of Vietnam on 6 September 1967.
While on patrol, the Third Platoon of Company A was suddenly attacked by a
numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. Observing his Platoon
Commander wounded and the platoon sustaining heavy casualties from a withering
enemy fire of automatic, small-arms and antitank weapons, Corporal Soliz, with
complete disregard for his own safety, ran about twenty-five meters through
extremely heavy fire to climb aboard an amphibian tractor to man a machine
gun. Knowing the safety of the platoon and outcome of the battle depended on
his platoon gaining fire superiority, he unhesitatingly proceeded to place a
heavy volume of well-aimed fire on the enemy which enabled the platoon to gain
fire superiority, deploy to better defensive positions and evacuate several
seriously wounded Marines to amphibian tractors where they could be treated.
As he was delivering his devastating fire into the enemy, he was severely
wounded by enemy fire which rendered him unconscious. Before assistance could
arrive, Corporal Soliz was hit again and mortally wounded. Corporal Soliz's
concern for the other members of his platoon coupled with his keen
professional skill and unfaltering dedication to duty were in keeping with 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: Bakersfield, California
*SPARK, MICHAEL MELVIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Michael Melvin Spark (0-49041), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism while serving as Commanding Officer, Third Marines,
THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with
operations against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 15 January 1969.
During a multi-battalion search and clear operation in the vicinity of An Hoa,
Colonel Spark exhibited outstanding courage and presence of mind in the midst
of violent combat action. While commanding a bold, highly imaginative, mobile
operation in the mountainous terrain, Colonel Spark directed an assault
against heavily fortified enemy positions. After ensuring that his men were
properly positioned, Colonel Spark went airborne, by the use of a helicopter,
to observe and direct the operation. During the process of the operation, it
was necessary for the helicopter to descend, and as the helicopter hovered
over the landing zone, which had been hastily cut out of the jungle, the enemy
took the aircraft under automatic-weapons fire. Despite the enemy fire, he
defiantly continued the personal direction of his men until finally the
helicopter was hit and caused to crash. As the helicopter impacted, the enemy
continued firing upon it, killing all the occupants. Throughout the entire
operation, Colonel Spark placed requirements for full and direct support of
his combat elements above any concern for his own personal safety. He spent
the majority of his time with his forward-most units in order to effectively
control the action. This enabled him to maximize exploitation of many
situations, and served as an inspiration to the officers and enlisted Marines
of his command. By his intrepid fighting spirit, daring initiative, and
unswerving dedication to duty, Colonel Spark 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: New York, New York
*SPICER, JONATHAN NATHANIEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Jonathan Nathaniel Spicer (2390916), Private First Class,
U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with Company C,
Third Medical Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 8 March 1968. During an intense enemy
rocket, mortar and artillery attack against the Khe Sanh Combat Base, Private
Spicer unhesitatingly volunteered to serve as a stretcher bearer and assisted
in embarking the numerous casualties aboard transport helicopters for
evacuation. Completely disregarding his own safety, he continued to expedite
the loading of the wounded aboard the aircraft, despite the increasing
intensity of the attack, and was the last man to seek shelter in a bunker at
the edge of the air strip. Observing a mortar round exploding near an
evacuation helicopter loaded with casualties, he unhesitatingly left his
position of relative safety to assist the wounded who were unable to move from
their exposed position. Moments later, another round exploded within a few
feet of Private Spicer, seriously wounding him, as he shielded a Marine from
the blast with his own body. Unable to walk, he warned his comrades to remain
in their protective positions while he attempted to crawl from the hazardous
area to safety by himself. His selfless actions undoubtedly prevented serious
injury or possible death to his fellow Marines and were an inspiration to all
who observed him. By his dauntless courage, unfaltering determination and
selfless devotion to duty at great risk, Private Spicer upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Miami, Florida
*SRSEN, STEVE ALBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Steve Albert Srsen (2196925), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Rifleman while serving with
Company A, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced),
Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 January 1967. Private
First Class Srsen was with the First Platoon, Company A, when it was engaged
in action as a reaction force assigned to link up with a reconnaissance
patrol. Early the next morning following the linkup, Private First Class
Srsen's squad came under heavy small-arms fire and grenade attack. When an
enemy grenade landed in his squad's position, Private First Class Srsen warned
three other members of the squad, allowing them to take cover and escape
injury. Wounded in his right side and leg from the grenade, Private First
Class Srsen, after being treated by a Corpsman requested permission to return
to his position in the perimeter. Approximately thirty minutes later another
enemy grenade landed close to another Marine and Private First Class Srsen
gallantly pushed him to the ground, thereby saving his life. Mortally wounded
by the exploding grenade, Private First Class Srsen, by his dauntless courage
and grave concern for another had risked his life to save that of a fellow
Marine, 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
Home Town: San Lorenzo, California
*ST. CLAIR, CLARENCE H., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Clarence H. St. Clair, Jr. (261867954), Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader with
Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with combat operations against
the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 August 1969, while Company K was
conducting a search and destroy operation in Quang Nam Province, the lead
platoon was pinned down by small arms, automatic weapons, and antiaircraft
fire from enemy soldiers concealed in well-camouflaged emplacements. Directed
to assist the pinned-down element, Corporal St. Clair deployed his men to the
point of heaviest contact and instantly came under intense fire. Observing two
principal sources of hostile fire, he directed two of his fire teams to
provide covering fire while he maneuvered his third team toward the enemy
emplacements. While crawling toward their objective, the men were seriously
wounded by enemy grenades. Quick to act, Corporal St. Clair began crawling
through the enemy cross fire toward the first objective and had advanced only
five meters when he was severely injured by the detonation of another grenade.
Recovering quickly, he pressed his advance until he was close enough to the
enemy bunker to hurl a grenade through its aperture, destroying the position
and its occupants. Although suffering intense pain, he valiantly continued in
the direction of the second objective and, while thus engaged, was mortally
wounded. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to
duty in the face of grave personal danger, Corporal St. Clair contributed
significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and 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: Pensacola, Florida
STAHL, MYKLE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Mykle E. Stahl (109534), Captain [then Sergeant], U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Platoon Sergeant with a 4.2 Mortar
Platoon attached to Company K, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD
Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, in connection with
combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 January
1968. While maintaining a combat outpost on Hill 861, the Company came under
enemy mortar, rocket, and ground attack. After the defensive positions on the
southwest side of the hill were penetrated by enemy sappers, Captain Stahl,
although having received shrapnel wounds, led eight Marines from the 4.2
Mortar Section and advanced up the trenchline to make contact with the Third
Platoon. Realizing that by now the enemy forces were manning the bunkers in
the trenchline, he launched a one man assault while other Marines provided a
base of fire, thus enabling several wounded Marines to be evacuated. As he
advanced further up the trenchline, Captain Stahl encountered three enemy
soldiers who tried to capture him. Although receiving bayonet wounds and
having his M-16 rifle malfunction during the struggle, he killed two of the
enemy soldiers while another Marine fatally wounded the third. Captain Stahl
then picked up an AK A-47 assault rifle and continued up the trenchline and
assaulted the third bunker, killing three and capturing three enemy soldiers.
Linking up with the Third Platoon, the trenchline was consolidated and
evacuation of wounded Marines was completed. Captain Stahl then moved to a .50
caliber machine gun and, although wounded for the third time, continued
directing suppressive fire into the attacking enemy forces. By his bold
courage and steadfast dedication, Captain Stahl reflected great credit upon
himself, the Marine Corps, and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Abilene, Texas
STARRETT, EDWARD F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward F. Starrett (2573512), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as a Mortar Gunner with Company G, Second
Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic
of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 9 December 1970, while occupying
a position in defense of a hamlet in Que Son District of Quang Nam Province, a
unit of Marines and Regional Forces soldiers came under ground attack by a
large North Vietnamese Army force supported by intense mortar and
rocket-propelled grenade fire. During the initial moments of the assault,
Lance Corporal Starrett was wounded when an enemy mortar damaged the bunker in
which he was located. Although momentarily stunned, he recovered quickly and
ran across the fire-swept terrain to his mortar position. As he commenced
firing illumination rounds, a grenade landed in the pit he occupied, but he
escaped further injury by quickly diving out of the emplacement. Returning to
his gun, he found it inoperable and also observed that some of the hostile
soldiers had penetrated the defensive perimeter. Observing one of the enemy
preparing to hurl a hand grenade at the communications center, he prevented
this action with an accurate burst of fire. Lance Corporal Starrett then
commenced firing at the advancing enemy soldiers and immediately became a
target for enemy grenades. Although wounded again, he continued his vigorous
defense of the position, accounting for two more hostile soldiers and
preventing further penetration at that point. Later, he stood in full view of
the enemy, and seemingly oblivious to the grenades detonating around him,
fired round after round into the attacking unit. Sustaining numerous
casualties, the enemy was forced to retreat. By his courage, aggressive
fighting spirit, and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of grave
personal danger, Lance Corporal Starrett was greatly instrumental in repelling
a determined enemy force and 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: Baltimore, Maryland
*STEWART, MICHAEL EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Michael Edward Stewart (2135524), Lance Corporal, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as an
Anti-tank Assaultman with the Second Platoon, Company A, First Battalion,
Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, on 13
May 1967 in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. During a search and clear
operation in the village of Phu An, Lance Corporal Stewart's company came
under heavy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire from a well entrenched
North Vietnamese Regular force, estimated at company strength. At the outset,
several Marines were killed and others wounded in an area affording them
little or no cover from the deadly accurate fire which felled them. Realizing
that these Marines could not return unassisted to safety, Lance Corporal
Stewart unhesitatingly, with full knowledge of the hazards involved and of the
great risk of his own life, left his relatively safe position and crawled
alone over fifty meters through open area to were the wounded lay helpless.
One man was shot in the face and could not see. With uncommon calmness and
bravery and while constantly exposing himself to the withering fire which
continued to deplete his company's ranks, he calmed the man and guided him
through the hail of bullets to safety. Again, ignoring the deadly accurate
fire which had halted his company's advance, he returned to the field where
others lay wounded. While dragging a second casualty to the rear, the man was
again wounded. Lance Corporal Stewart steadfastly refused to leave the twice
wounded Marine. As he daringly continued through the enemy fire toward safety,
he was mortally wounded. Through his valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the
face of great personal risk, Lance Corporal Stewart saved one Marine from
almost certain death and gave his own life helping another. His bold
initiative, unswerving devotion to duty and courageous efforts inspired all
who observed him and were in keeping with 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: Culpepper, Virginia
STOCKMAN, ROBERT D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert D. Stockman, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism
while serving as a Scout Dog Handler with the Third Military Police Battalion,
Force Logistic Command, in connection with combat operations against the enemy
in the Republic of Vietnam. On 14 January 1970, Sergeant Stockman accompanied
a platoon on a mission to search a designated village for North Vietnamese
Army soldiers and equipment. As the platoon neared its objective, the lead
element was pinned down by a heavy volume of automatic weapons and
rocket-propelled grenade fire from an enemy company occupying a well-fortified
bunker complex. After rapidly assessing the situation, Sergeant Stockman tied
his dog in a covered location, rushed across fifty meters of open area, and
charged the nearest hostile emplacement, silencing the fire from that sector.
Directing a companion to provide covering fire, Sergeant Stockman and another
Marine maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain and attacked and destroyed the
remaining bunker. At this time, the platoon came under intense fire from two
other directions. Observing a wounded man fall in an open area, Sergeant
Stockman unhesitatingly ran to his side, picked him up, and carried him to a
covered location. When a medical transportation helicopter approached a
pick-up site, the hostile fire immediately increased in intensity, delaying
the landing. Seizing the initiative, Sergeant Stockman rallied the other
members of the platoon and led an aggressive assault on the enemy force which
forced it into a disorganized retreat, leaving behind two mortally wounded
soldiers. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and inspiring devotion
to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Sergeant Stockman contributed
significantly to the defeat of a numerically superior enemy force and upheld
the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval
Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
STUCKEY, JAMES L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James L. Stuckey (2114059), Corporal [then Lance Corporal], U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Fire Team Leader with Company C, First
Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine
Force, in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam on 6 July 1967. While in a
defensive position and surrounded by a large North Vietnamese Army force,
Corporal Stuckey's fire team occupied a strategic point on the company's right
flank. During one heavy attack, three enemy grenades landed in the fire team's
position. Completely disregarding his own safety, Corporal Stuckey
unhesitatingly picked up the grenades and hurled them back toward the enemy.
As he was throwing the third grenade, it exploded severing his right hand.
Despite the painful wound, he steadfastly refused to abandon his position, and
courageously continued to fight and encourage his men. Although he evacuated
one of his wounded men, Corporal Stuckey refused to seek aid for himself and
staunchly repulsed the furious onslaught throughout the night, accepting
treatment only when the enemy had withdrawn the following morning. His valiant
leadership and courageous fighting spirit served to inspire the men in his
platoon to heroic endeavor in repelling the enemy, and reflected the highest
credit upon himself and the Marine Corps. By his heroic conduct and fearless
devotion to duty, Corporal Stuckey upheld the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Seminole, Florida
SULLIVAN, DANIEL F., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Daniel F. Sullivan, Jr. (2067034), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as a Machine Gun Team Leader with Company
L, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet
Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 11 April 1966,
Corporal Sullivan and his team were assigned to set up an ambush outside the
hamlet of Nam Pho Ha in Phu Loc District in conjunction with Operation GOLDEN
FLEECE II. Several Viet Cong were allowed to proceed within five feet of the
Marines' machine gun before they were brought under fire. As two of the enemy
fell in front of the machine gun, a grenade was thrown into Corporal
Sullivan's position. With complete disregard for his own life, he leaped on
the grenade and covered it with his body. Rolling onto his back and still
clutching the sputtering grenade to his body, he hurled it upward and away
from the Marines. Before it touched the ground, the grenade exploded
harmlessly about six feet in front of the position. His valiant effort
doubtlessly saved his three comrades from death or severe injury. By his
gallant concern for his fellow Marines in the face of almost certain death,
Corporal Sullivan upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the
United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of
Decorations and Medals
Home Town: South Boston, Massachusetts
SULLIVAN, GEORGE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to George R. Sullivan (0-94356), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Platoon Commander with
Company L, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 17 March 1967
during Operation PRAIRIE II. While on a search and clear mission in the
vicinity of Dong Ha in the Quang Tri Province, Second Lieutenant Sullivan's
platoon was approaching a suspected Viet Cong controlled village when it came
under intense small arms and automatic weapons fire from a well concealed
enemy force of estimated battalion size. After skillfully employing his men in
order to bring a heavy volume of fire on the enemy positions, Second
Lieutenant Sullivan observed an enemy automatic weapon to his front and
realizing the necessity of neutralizing the well-fortified position, he
courageously moved across open fire-swept terrain to within ten meters of the
Viet Cong emplacement and silenced the enemy weapon with a grenade. After he
had directed a machine gun team into a forward position to deliver suppressive
fire at the enemy, he observed that the team's weapon had malfunctioned.
Unhesitatingly he moved through concentrated enemy fire to the team's location
and cleared the weapon. Meanwhile, another machine gun team had begun moving
their weapon forward, but both Marines were wounded and fell in an area
exposed to enemy fire. Courageously, Second Lieutenant Sullivan again
disregarded the heavy enemy fire and unmindful of his own personal safety,
moved to their position and carried them to a defiladed area, undoubtedly
saving their lives. Later, while moving among his men, encouraging them and
directing their fire, he was painfully wounded in his shoulder, arm and both
legs. Although unable to move, he continued to direct the actions of his
platoon while requesting air support, medical evacuation for the wounded and a
re-supply of ammunition, and only after reinforcements had arrived, under the
cover of darkness, did he allow himself to be evacuated. By his intrepid
fighting spirit, selfless courage, bold initiative and unswerving devotion to
duty at great personal risk, Second Lieutenant Sullivan reflected great credit
upon himself, 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: Lynnbrook, New York
*THOMPSON, JERRALD RICH
*THOUVENELL, ARMAND RENE
*TYCZ, JAMES NEIL (MIA)
*WARD, JAMES CLINTON
WEBB, JAMES H., JR.
WEISE, WILLIAM
WILLIAMS, ROBERT S.
*YATES, JOHN CHARLES
