The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
*McMAHON, THOMAS J.
Rank and organization: Specialist Fourth
Class, U.S. Army, Company A, 2d Battalion, 1st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade, Americal
Division. Place and Date: Quang Tin province, Republic of Vietnam, 19 March 1969.
Entered service at: portland, Maine. Born: 24 June 1948, Washington,
D.C.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and
beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. McMahon distinguished himself while serving as medical aid
man with Company A. When the lead elements of his company came under heavy fire from
well-fortified enemy positions, 3 soldiers fell seriously wounded. Sp4c. McMahon, with
complete disregard for his safety, left his covered position and ran through intense enemy
fire to the side of 1 of the wounded, administered first aid and then carried him to
safety. He returned through the hail of fire to the side of a second wounded man. Although
painfully wounded by an exploding mortar round while returning the wounded man to a secure
position, Sp4c. McMahon refused medical attention and heroically ran back through the
heavy enemy fire toward his remaining wounded comrade. He fell mortally wounded before he
could rescue the last man. Sp4c. McMahon's undaunted concern for the welfare of his
comrades at the cost of his life are in keeping with the highest traditions of the
military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
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