The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
*MCWETHY, EDGAR LEE, JR.
Rank and organization: Specialist Fifth
Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).
Place and Date: Binh Dinh province, Republic of Vietnam, 21 June 1967. Entered
service at: Denver, Colo. Born: 22 November 1944, Leadville, Colo.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and
beyond the call of duty. Serving as a medical aidman with Company B, Sp5c. McWethy
accompanied his platoon to the site of a downed helicopter. Shortly after the platoon
established a defensive perimeter around the aircraft, a large enemy force attacked the
position from 3 sides with a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire and grenades. The
platoon leader and his radio operator were wounded almost immediately, and Sp5c. McWethy
rushed across the fire-swept area to their assistance. Although he could not help the
mortally wounded radio operator, Sp5c. McWethy's timely first aid enabled the platoon
leader to retain command during this critical period. Hearing a call for aid, Sp5c.
McWethy started across the open toward the injured men, but was wounded in the head and
knocked to the ground. He regained his feet and continued on but was hit again, this time
in the leg. Struggling onward despite his wounds, he gained the side of his comrades and
treated their injuries. Observing another fallen rifleman Lying in an exposed position
raked by enemy fire, Sp5c. McWethy moved toward him without hesitation. Although the enemy
fire wounded him a third time, Sp5c. McWethy reached his fallen companion. Though weakened
and in extreme pain, Sp5c. McWethy gave the wounded man artificial respiration but
suffered a fourth and fatal wound. Through his indomitable courage, complete disregard for
his safety, and demonstrated concern for his fellow soldiers, Sp5c. McWethy inspired the
members of his platoon and contributed in great measure to their successful defense of the
position and the ultimate rout of the enemy force. Sp5c. McWethy's profound sense of duty,
bravery, and his willingness to accept extraordinary risks in order to help the men of his
unit are characteristic of the highest traditions of the military service and reflect
great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.
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