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List of Medal of Honor recipients for the Vietnam War

Summary

The Medal of Honor was created during the American Civil War and is the highest military decoration presented by the United States government to a member of its armed forces. The recipients must have distinguished themselves at the risk of their own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy of the United States. Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented posthumously.[1]

The Vietnam War, (also known as the Second Indochina War, Vietnam Conflict, and in Vietnam as the American War), took place from 1955 to 1975. The war was fought between the Communist-supported Democratic Republic of Vietnam and the United States-supported Republic of Vietnam, beginning with the presence of a small number of US military advisors in 1955 and escalating into direct US involvement in a ground war in 1965. US combat forces were withdrawn in early 1973 pursuant to the Paris Peace Accords, but the war continued concluding with the Fall of Saigon on 30 April 1975.[2]

During the Vietnam War and in the following twelve months, 235 Medals of Honor were awarded and since 1978 a further 33 awards have been presented. Of the total of 268 awards, 179 were to the US Army, 15 to the US Navy, 58 to the USMC and 14 to the USAF.[3] These totals do not include the award to the Vietnam Unknown Soldier.

The first Medal of Honor presentation for Vietnam was to Captain Roger Donlon for actions on 6 July 1964 as commanding officer of the U.S. Army Special Forces Detachment defending Camp Nam Dong against a Viet Cong attack.[4] The last actions to earn a Medal of Honor in this war were those of Bud Day, for actions as a prisoner of war from 26 August 1967 through 14 March 1973. Day and three others were presented with the Medal of Honor by President Ford at the White House on March 4, 1976. They were the last of the 235 servicemen awarded the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War and in the following twelve months.

The first African American recipient of the war was Milton L. Olive III who sacrificed himself to save others by smothering a grenade with his body.[5] Riley L. Pitts was killed after attacking an enemy force with rifle fire and grenades and was the first African American commissioned officer of the war to receive the medal.[6] Thomas Bennett and Joseph LaPointe were conscientious objectors who received the medal for their actions as a medic;[7] three chaplains received the medal, including Vincent R. Capodanno, who served with the Marine Corps and was known as the "Grunt Padre".[8]

Recipients edit

  Grey background and  † indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously.
All locations are in South Vietnam (Republic of Vietnam) unless otherwise stated.

Image Name Service Rank Place of action Date of action Notes[9][10]
  William E. Adams † Army Major Kon Tum Province May 25, 1971 Killed while flying his helicopter in a rescue mission
  Bennie Adkins Army Sergeant First Class A Shau Valley, South Vietnam March 9, 1966 Distinguished himself during 38 hours of close-combat battle against Viet Cong forces during the Battle of A Shau
Lewis Albanese † Army Private First Class South Vietnam December 1, 1966 After participating in the defeat of an enemy assault he was killed in hand-to-hand combat
  Leonard L. Alvarado † Army Specialist Four Phước Long Province August 12, 1969 For disrupting an enemy raid and saving the lives of several comrades
  James Anderson, Jr. † Marine Corps Private First Class Near Cam Lộ February 28, 1967 For covering an enemy grenade with his body to protect fellow Marines
  Richard A. Anderson † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Quảng Trị Province August 24, 1969 For covering an enemy grenade with his body to protect fellow Marines on a recon mission.
  Webster Anderson Army Staff Sergeant Tam Kỳ October 15, 1967 Although wounded multiple times he continued to fight and refused medical aid until the enemy attack was over.
Eugene Ashley, Jr. † Army Sergeant First Class Lang Vei—South Vietnamnear Lang Vei February 6, 1968 – February 7, 1968 Risked his life attempting to save the lives of his entrapped comrades and commanding officer
  Oscar P. Austin † Marine Corps Private First Class Da Nang—South Vietnamwest of Da Nang February 23, 1969 Threw himself between enemy fire and an injured fellow Marine
  John P. Baca Army Specialist Four Phước Long Province February 10, 1970 Covered a grenade with his helmet and body, saving eight men
  Nicky D. Bacon Army Staff Sergeant Tam Ky—South Vietnamwest of Tam Kỳ August 26, 1968 Risked his life by repeatedly leading groups of men in fighting back an enemy attack
  John F. Baker, Jr. Army Private First Class South Vietnam November 5, 1966 He was directly responsible for saving the lives of several of his comrades, and inflicting serious damage on the enemy.
  Donald E. Ballard Navy Hospital Corpsman Second Class Quảng Trị Province May 16, 1968 Risked his life by smothering a grenade with his own body
  Jedh C. Barker † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Con Thien—South Vietnamnear Con Thien September 21, 1967 Threw himself on a grenade to save fellow Marines
  John A. Barnes, III † Army Private First Class Đắk Tô November 12, 1967 Sacrificed his life by throwing himself directly onto a hand grenade as it exploded.
  Harvey C. Barnum, Jr. Marine Corps First Lieutenant Ky Phu, Quảng Tín Province December 18, 1965 Assumed command of a rifle company upon death of the commander in an ambush and directed the counterattack.
  Gary B. Beikirch Army Sergeant Kon Tum Province April 1, 1970 Endured hostile gunfire and serious injuries to save several wounded soldiers.
  Ted Belcher † Army Sergeant Plei Djerang November 19, 1966 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
—
 Leslie A. Bellrichard † Army Private First Class Kon Tum Province May 20, 1967 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Roy P. Benavidez Army Staff Sergeant Loc Ninh—South Vietnamwest of Lộc Ninh May 2, 1968 For a series of daring and valorous actions despite severe wounds
  Steven L. Bennett † Air Force Captain Quảng Trị June 29, 1972 Sacrificed his life to save the life of his passenger
  Thomas W. Bennett † Army Corporal Chu Pa Region, Pleiku Province February 9, 1969 – February 11, 1969 For saving many lives as a medic during a number of vicious firefights. Second conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor.
  Dwight W. Birdwell Army Specialist Five Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Saigon January 31, 1968 For his role in the Tet offensive attack on Tan Son Nhut Air Base. Medal awarded on 5 July 2022.
  Michael R. Blanchfield † Army Specialist Four Bình Định Province July 3, 1969 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  John P. Bobo † Marine Corps Second Lieutenant Quảng Trị Province March 30, 1967 Held his position in the face of enemy ambush despite having his lower leg blown off, allowing the remainder of his outnumbered unit to move to safety.
—
 James L. Bondsteel Army Staff Sergeant An Lộc, Bình Phước Province May 24, 1969 He destroyed 10 enemy bunkers and accounted for a large toll of the enemy, including two key enemy commanders
—
 Hammett L. Bowen, Jr. † Army Staff Sergeant Bình Dương Province June 27, 1969 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Patrick H. Brady Army Major Chu Lai—South Vietnamnear Chu Lai January 6, 1968 Flew multiple missions against heavy fire to evacuate 51 wounded men
  Daniel D. Bruce † Marine Corps Private First Class Fire Support Base Tomahawk, Quảng Nam Province March 1, 1969 Carried an explosive device away from three other Marines
—
 William M. Bryant † Army Sergeant First Class Long Khánh District March 24, 1969 Showed conspicuous leadership while organizing his unit's defense during a 34-hour enemy attack
  Paul W. Bucha Army Captain Phuoc Vinh—Bình Dương Province—South Vietnamnear Phuoc Vinh, Bình Dương Province March 16, 1968 – March 19, 1968 Led his company in the decimation of a superior enemy force which left 156 dead on the battlefield
—
 Brian L. Buker † Army Sergeant Châu Đốc Province April 5, 1970 Sacrificed his life to lead his men against the enemy and personally destroyed two enemy bunkers with hand grenades
  Robert C. Burke † Marine Corps Private First Class southern Quảng Nam Province May 17, 1968 After his unit was ambushed, he assaulted the enemy forces, allowing the remainder of the unit to recover wounded and continue their advance
  John Canley Marine Corps Gunnery sergeant Huế January 31, 1968 –

February 6, 1968

Awarded for his role in the Battle of Huế. Originally awarded the Navy Cross which was upgraded to the Medal of Honor on October 17, 2018.
  Vincent R. Capodanno † Navy Lieutenant Quảng Tín Province September 4, 1967 A Chaplain who was killed while attempting to rescue a wounded corpsman
  Wayne M. Caron † Navy Hospital Corpsman Third Class Quảng Nam Province July 28, 1968 Was killed while providing medical attention to several wounded Marines
  Bruce W. Carter † Marine Corps Private First Class Quảng Trị Province August 7, 1969 Sacrificed his life to save several Marines by smothering a grenade with his body
  Jon R. Cavaiani Army Staff Sergeant South Vietnam June 4, 1971 – June 5, 1971 Risked his life by attacking a wave of enemy forces alone to allow the rest of his platoon to escape
  Raymond M. Clausen, Jr. Marine Corps Private First Class South Vietnam January 31, 1970 Risked his life to rescue several Marines and corpsman from a minefield
  Ronald L. Coker † Marine Corps Private First Class Quảng Trị Province March 24, 1969 For assaulting an enemy position and aiding a fallen Marine despite severe wounds to himself
  Felix M. Conde-Falcon † Army Staff Sergeant Ap Tan Hoa April 4, 1969 Killed while assaulting heavily fortified enemy bunkers
  Peter S. Connor † Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Quảng Nam Province February 25, 1966 For absorbing the blast of a malfunctioning grenade in order to protect his fellow Marines
  Donald G. Cook † Marine Corps Captain South Vietnam December 31, 1964 – December 8, 1967 For assisting fellow prisoners while a prisoner of war
  Ardie R. Copas † Army Specialist Four Ph Romeas Hek, Cambodia May 12, 1970 Killed while holding off an enemy ambush while wounded, so his comrades could be evacuated
  Bruce P. Crandall Army Major Battle of Ia Drang November 14, 1965 For repeatedly flying into a landing zone under intense enemy fire to rescue and resupply ground troops
  Thomas E. Creek † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Cam Lo—South Vietnamnear Cam Lộ February 13, 1969 Sacrificed his life to save five Marines by smothering a grenade with his body
  Michael J. Crescenz † Army Corporal Hiệp Đức Valley area November 20, 1968 For single-handedly destroying two bunkers while under fire from a third machine gun during an ambush
—
 Nicholas J. Cutinha † Army Specialist Four Gia Định—South Vietnamnear Gia Định March 2, 1968 Maintained his position, refused assistance, and provided defensive fire for his comrades until he fell mortally wounded. He was solely responsible for killing 15 enemy soldiers while saving the lives of at least nine members of his own unit.
  Larry G. Dahl † Army Specialist Four An Khê, Bình Định Province February 23, 1971 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Paris Davis Army Captain Bồng Sơn, Bình Định Province July 18, 1965 For rescuing several of his men though wounded and defending their position until relieved
  Rodney M. Davis † Marine Corps Sergeant Quảng Nam Province September 6, 1967 Sacrificed his life to save several of his fellow Marines by smothering a grenade with his body
  Sammy L. Davis Army Private First Class Cai Lay—South VietnamWest of Cai Lậy November 18, 1967 For defending his 42-man unit from hundreds of attacking Viet Cong
  George E. Day Air Force Major North Vietnam August 26, 1967 For actions as a prisoner of war from August 26, 1967 – March 4, 1973
  Emilio A. De La Garza, Jr. † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Da Nang—South Vietnamnear Da Nang April 11, 1970 Sacrificed his life and saved several Marines by blocking them from the blast of a grenade
  Merlyn H. Dethlefsen Air Force Captain North Vietnamover North Vietnam March 10, 1967 Flew repeated close range strikes to silence enemy defensive positions, ignoring overwhelming firepower and damage to his own aircraft
—
 Edward A. DeVore, Jr. † Army Specialist Four Saigon—South Vietnamnear Saigon March 17, 1968 Sacrificed his life to draw the enemy fire upon himself allowing a trapped squad to rejoin their platoon
  Ralph E. Dias † Marine Corps Private First Class Quế Sơn Mountains November 12, 1969 Although severely wounded multiple times by enemy fire, he continued to throw grenades at an enemy bunker until it was destroyed and he was killed by enemy gunfire.
  Douglas E. Dickey † Marine Corps Private First Class South Vietnam March 26, 1967 Sacrificed his life to save several fellow Marines by diving on a grenade and absorbing the explosion with his body
  Drew D. Dix Army Staff Sergeant Châu Đốc Province January 31, 1968 – February 1, 1968 His actions resulted in 14 confirmed Viet Cong killed in action and possibly 25 more, the capture of 20 prisoners, 15 weapons, and the rescue of the 14 United States and free world civilians
—
 Stephen H. Doane † Army First Lieutenant Hậu Nghĩa Province March 25, 1969 Although already wounded, he sacrificed his life to save other soldiers who were pinned down by silencing two enemy gun emplacements and diving into a third with a grenade.
  David C. Dolby Army Specialist Four South Vietnam May 21, 1966 For silencing three enemy positions and rescuing several wounded comrades
  Roger H. C. Donlon Army Captain Nam Dong—South Vietnamnear Nam Đông July 6, 1964 Rescued and administered first aid to several wounded soldiers and led a group to defeat an enemy force, causing them to retreat and leaving behind 54 of their dead, many weapons, and grenades.
  John J. Duffy Army Major Firebase Charlie, Kon Tum province April 14, 1972 – April 15, 1972 For his role leading the defense of Firebase Charlie during the Battle of Kontum. Medal awarded on 5 July 2022.
—
 Kern W. Dunagan Army Captain Quảng Tín Province May 13, 1969 Although wounded, he directed fire onto enemy positions and rescued several wounded soldiers.
  Jesus S. Duran † Army Sergeant Ph Romeas Hek, Cambodia April 10, 1969 Saved wounded Americans on a search and clear operation
—
 Harold Bascom Durham, Jr. † Army Second Lieutenant Ong Thanh, South Vietnam October 17, 1967 Although wounded he directed fire on enemy positions and continued to fight until he died from his wounds
  Glenn H. English, Jr. † Army Staff Sergeant Phù Mỹ District September 7, 1970 Was killed while attempting to rescue a wounded soldier from a personnel carrier
  Santiago J. Erevia Army Specialist Four near Tam Kỳ May 21, 1969 For his courageous actions while serving as radio telephone operator in Company C, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 501st Infantry, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) during search and clear mission.[11][12]
  Michael J. Estocin † Navy Lieutenant Commander Hai Phong, North Vietnam April 20, 1967 and April 26, 1967 Risked his life by attacking an enemy SAM site and other enemy targets multiple times
  Richard Etchberger † Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Lima Site 85, Laos March 11, 1968 Exposed himself to enemy fire in order to place his three surviving wounded comrades in rescue slings, permitting them to be airlifted to safety. It took an act of Congress for Etchberger to be reconsidered for this 2010 Medal of Honor, since the existence of Lima Site 85 had to be kept secret in 1968.
  Donald W. Evans, Jr. † Army Specialist Four Tam Tri January 27, 1967 Was a medic who was killed while treating and rescuing members of his unit. Evans Army Community Hospital, Ft Carson, was named after Evans.
—
 Rodney J. Evans † Army Sergeant Tây Ninh Province July 18, 1969 Killed protecting others during an ambush
  Frederick E. Ferguson Army Chief Warrant Officer Huế January 31, 1968 Risked his life by flying his helicopter into heavy enemy fire to evacuate several wounded passengers and aircrew of a downed helicopter
  Daniel Fernandez † Army Specialist Four Củ Chi, Hậu Nghĩa Province February 18, 1966 Threw himself on an enemy grenade as it exploded, saving the lives of four comrades at the sacrifice of his life
  Bernard F. Fisher Air Force Major Biên Hòa and Pleiku, South Vietnam March 10, 1966 For rescuing a downed airman despite heavy fire
  Michael J. Fitzmaurice Army Specialist Four Khe Sanh March 23, 1971 For absorbing an explosive charge and continuing to fight with weapons and hand to hand before successfully defending a bunker.
—
 Charles C. Fleek † Army Sergeant Bình Dương Province May 27, 1969 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  James P. Fleming Air Force First Lieutenant Duc Co—South Vietnamnear Đức Cơ November 26, 1968 For the rescue of a six-man special forces unit
  Robert F. Foley Army Captain Quan Dầu Tiếng—South Vietnamnear Dầu Tiếng November 5, 1966 Despite his painful wounds, he refused medical aid and persevered in the forefront of the attack on the enemy redoubt. He led the assault on several enemy gun emplacements and, single-handedly, destroyed three such positions.
—
 Michael F. Folland † Army Corporal Long Khánh Province July 3, 1969 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
  Paul H. Foster † Marine Corps Sergeant Con Thien—South Vietnamnear Con Thien October 14, 1967 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
—
 Douglas B. Fournet † Army First Lieutenant A Shau Valley May 4, 1968 Sacrificed his life in an attempt to defuse a claymore mine
—
 James W. Fous † Army Private First Class Kien Hoa Province May 14, 1968 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Wesley L. Fox Marine Corps First Lieutenant Quảng Trị Province February 22, 1969 Although wounded, he directed fire on the enemy and led his platoon to drive the enemy back.
—
 Frank R. Fratellenico † Army Corporal Quảng Trị Province August 19, 1970 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him.
  Ed Freeman Army Captain Ia Drang Valley November 14, 1965 For gallantry conducted as a UH–1 Huey pilot at LZ X–Ray
  Harold A. Fritz Army First Lieutenant Bình Long Province January 11, 1969 Despite his wounds, he returned to his position, assisted his men, and refused medical attention until all of his wounded comrades had been treated and evacuated.
  Dennis Fujii Army Specialist Four Firebase Ranger North, Savannakhet province, Laos February 18, 1971 – February 22, 1971 For his role in the defense of Firebase Ranger North during Operation Lam Son 719. Medal awarded on 5 July 2022.
  Candelario Garcia † Army Sergeant Lai Khê December 8, 1968 Destroyed two enemy machine gun nests while saving wounded comrades
—
 James A. Gardner † Army First Lieutenant My Canh, South Vietnam February 7, 1966 Sacrificed his life by single-handedly destroying several enemy gun positions until he was killed
—
 John G. Gertsch † Army Staff Sergeant A Shau Valley July 15, 1969 – July 19, 1969 For providing covering fire for a medic working on a wounded soldier
  Alfredo C. Gonzalez † Marine Corps Sergeant Thừa Thiên—Huế—South VietnamHuế February 4, 1968 Although seriously wounded, he destroyed an enemy bunker and fought back an enemy attack until he was killed.
  James A. Graham † Marine Corps Captain Que Son Valley June 2, 1967 After fighting off the enemy, he sacrificed his life by allowing the rest of his company to return to friendly lines, while he remained alone with an injured soldier who could not be moved due to his wounds.
—
 Bruce A. Grandstaff † Army Platoon Sergeant Pleiku Province May 18, 1967 Fought off an enemy attack until killed by an enemy rocket
—
 Joseph X. Grant † Army First Lieutenant South Vietnam November 13, 1966 Killed by enemy mortar fire while attempting to rescue several injured Marines
  Terrence C. Graves † Marine Corps Second Lieutenant Quảng Trị Province February 16, 1968 For courageous leadership on an eight-man Marine recon patrol
—
 Peter M. Guenette † Army Specialist Four Tân Uyên, Bình Dương May 18, 1968 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
  Charles C. Hagemeister Army Specialist Four Bình Định Province March 20, 1967 Risked his life to render medical aid to several injured soldiers and protected them until they could be evacuated
—
 Loren D. Hagen † Army First Lieutenant A Shau Valley August 7, 1971 For attempting to aid a critically wounded Special reconnaissance team member Bruce Allen Berg during a massive North Vietnamese Army assault.
—
 Robert W. Hartsock † Army Staff Sergeant Hậu Nghĩa Province February 23, 1969 For smothering an explosion with his body to protect those around him
—
 Carmel B. Harvey, Jr. † Army Specialist Four Bình Định Province June 21, 1967 Sacrificed his life and attacked a group of enemy soldiers so that several injured members of his squad could escape
  Frank A. Herda Army Private First Class Dak To—Quang Trang Province—South Vietnamnear Đắk Tô June 29, 1968 Risked his life to protect several wounded soldiers by smothering a grenade with his body
—
 Robert J. Hibbs † Army Second Lieutenant Don Dien Lo Ke, South Vietnam March 5, 1966 Sacrificed his life to eliminate two companies of the enemy, rescue a fellow soldier and destroyed the starlight scope attached to his rifle to prevent its capture and use by the Viet Cong.
  John N. Holcomb † Army Sergeant Quan Loi—South Vietnamnear Quần Lợi, South Vietnam December 3, 1968 Risked his life to lead his men to fight back an attacking enemy force three times
  Joe R. Hooper Army Sergeant Huế—South Vietnamnear Huế February 21, 1968 Airborne infantry company squad leader with many decorations and awards including eight Purple Hearts in the Vietnam War:
Repeatedly risked his life to rescue wounded soldiers and attack groups of enemy soldiers, clearing multiple bunkers and houses sometimes single-handed. Refused medical treatment or evacuation until after action and his men were settled.
"... His supreme valor, inspiring leadership and heroic self-sacrifice were directly responsible for the company's success and provided a lasting example in personal courage for every man in the field ...."
  Charles E. Hosking, Jr. † Army Sergeant First Class Phước Long Province March 21, 1967 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Jimmie E. Howard Marine Corps Staff Sergeant South Vietnam June 16, 1966 Repeateadly repulsed enemy attacks and although severely wounded was able maintain control of his unit until help could arrive
  Robert L. Howard Army Sergeant First Class South Vietnam December 30, 1968 For actions during a rescue mission in enemy territory
  James D. Howe † Marine Corps Lance Corporal South Vietnam May 6, 1970 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  George A. Ingalls † Army Specialist Four Đức Phổ—South Vietnamnear Đức Phổ April 16, 1967 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Robert R. Ingram Navy Hospital Corpsman Third Class Quảng Ngãi Province March 28, 1966 Although badly wounded, he continued to assist and treat the injuries of the Marines around him who had been hurt in combat with the enemy.
  Joe M. Jackson Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Kham Duc May 12, 1968 For a daring airborne rescue of American special forces troops
  Jack H. Jacobs Army First Lieutenant Kien Phong Province March 9, 1968 Drove off squads of enemy soldiers on three occasions who were searching for allied wounded and weapons. He killed three and wounded several others.
  Don J. Jenkins Army Private First Class Kien Phong Province January 6, 1969 Repeatedly attacked the enemy and although severely wounded risked his life to rescue several wounded soldiers
  Robert H. Jenkins, Jr. † Marine Corps Private First Class Firebase Argonne, South Vietnam March 5, 1969 For using his body to shield a fellow Marine from a grenade blast
—
 Delbert O. Jennings Army Staff Sergeant Kim Son Valley, South Vietnam December 27, 1966 Repeatedly attacked and defended his unit from enemy fire and assisted 8 wounded men who were trapped behind enemy lines
  Jose F. Jimenez † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Quảng Nam Province August 28, 1969 Killed while attacking a group of enemy soldiers
  Lawrence Joel Army Specialist Five South Vietnam November 8, 1965 Provided medical treatment to fellow soldiers while under heavy fire, despite being wounded twice, during Operation Hump
  Dwight H. Johnson Army Specialist Five Đắk Tô—Kon Tum Province—South Vietnamnear Đắk Tô, Kon Tum Province January 15, 1968 Repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to man several different machine-guns until the enemy had been fought back
  Ralph H. Johnson † Marine Corps Private First Class Quan Duc Valley—South Vietnamnear the Quan Duc Valley, South Vietnam March 5, 1968 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Donald R. Johnston † Army Specialist Four Tây Ninh Province March 21, 1969 For smothering explosive blasts with his body to protect those around him
  William A. Jones, III † Air Force Colonel Đồng Hới—North Vietnamnear Đồng Hới, North Vietnam September 1, 1968 Risked his life to fly his heavily damaged plane back to base to relay the location of a downed pilot
—
 Edward N. Kaneshiro † Army Staff sergeant Kim Son Valley, Bình Định province December 1, 1966 For his role in pushing forward an attack. Medal awarded on 5 July 2022.
—
 Stephen E. Karopczyc † Army First Lieutenant Kon Tum Province March 12, 1967 Sacrificed his life to save other soldiers by smothering a grenade with his body
  Terry T. Kawamura † Army Corporal Camp Radcliff, South Vietnam March 20, 1969 For smothering an explosive blast with his body to protect those around him
  Kenneth M. Kays Army Private Thừa Thiên Province May 7, 1970 Risked his life to assist several fallen comrades and although injured in the attempt was able to administer first aid to himself and several of the wounded and helped them to safety.
  John J. Kedenburg † Army Specialist Five South Vietnam June 13, 1968 For letting a Vietnamese soldier take his spot in a helicopter rescue, while he stayed behind to attempt to hold off advancing Viet Cong by which he was overrun.
  Miguel Keith † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Quảng Ngãi Province May 8, 1970 Sacrificed his life to single-handedly eliminate a group of enemy soldiers
  Leonard B. Keller Army Sergeant Ap Bac Zone, South Vietnam May 2, 1967 Assaulted an enemy platoon with another soldier preventing further casualties
  Thomas G. Kelley Navy Lieutenant Ong Muong Canal, Kien Hoa Province, South Vietnam June 15, 1969 Successfully relayed commands through one of his men until an enemy attack was silenced and the boats he was leading were able to move to safety
  Allan J. Kellogg Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Quảng Nam Province March 11, 1970 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  J. Robert Kerrey Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade Nha Trang Bay—South Vietnamnear Nha Trang Bay,South Vietnam March 14, 1969 Led his SEAL team on a mission to capture important members of the enemy and although seriously injured in the battle they eliminated an enemy force and took several prisoners. Later became a U.S. Senator for the state of Nebraska. Prior to becoming a senator, he served as the governor from 1983 to 1987.
  Charles Kettles Army Major near Đức Phổ, South Vietnam May 15, 1967 As a helicopter pilot, reinforced and then evacuated an embattled unit despite intense hostile fire
  Thomas J. Kinsman Army Private First Class Vinh Long—South Vietnamnear Vĩnh Long February 6, 1968 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
—
 Paul R. Lambers Army Sergeant Tây Ninh Province August 20, 1968 For taking command of his platoon and exposing himself to enemy fire to reestablish communication, tend to wounded men, and continued fighting
—
 George C. Lang Army Specialist Four Kien Hoa Province, South Vietnam February 22, 1969 For destroying three enemy bunkers with grenades and rifle fire, helping to secure an enemy supply cache and directing his men after being seriously wounded.
—
 Garfield M. Langhorn † Army Private First Class Pleiku Province, South Vietnam January 15, 1969 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Joseph G. LaPointe, Jr. † Army Specialist Four Quảng Tín Province June 2, 1969 Sacrificed his life by using his own body as a shield in an attempt to save a wounded soldier.
  Clyde E. Lassen Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade North Vietnam June 19, 1968 For the rescue of two downed naval aviators
—
 Billy L. Lauffer † Army Private First Class Bong Son—Bình Định Province—South Vietnamnear Bong Son, Bình Định Province September 21, 1966 Rushed an enemy machine gun to distract the enemy so that his wounded comrades could be moved to safety
—
 Robert D. Law † Army Specialist Four Phước Thành Province February 22, 1969 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Howard V. Lee Marine Corps Captain Cam Lo—South Vietnamnear Cam Lộ August 8, 1966 – August 9, 1966 Volunteered to reinforce a squad of Marines who were under heavy fire. He assumed command and directed the defense of their position and despite being wounded by a grenade, he continued to direct them, saving many lives.
—
 Milton A. Lee † Army Private First Class Phu Bai—Thừa Thiên Province—South Vietnamnear Phu Bai, Thừa Thiên Province April 26, 1968 Exposed himself to enemy fire and overran an enemy squad, continuing to provide cover fire until the lead element had overrun a second enemy squad and he fell mortally wounded.
—
 Robert R. Leisy † Army Second Lieutenant Phước Long Province December 2, 1969 Sacrificed his life to shield another soldier from a rocket blast, absorbing the full blast with his body. He continued to direct his men and refused treatment until his men were taken care of.
  Peter C. Lemon Army Specialist Four Firebase Illingworth, Tây Ninh Province April 1, 1970 The only Canadian recipient since World War II, and one of only four since 1900. He received it for exposing himself to enemy gunfire multiple times. While wounded he secured a machine gun and fired on the enemy, refusing evacuation until his injured comrades were taken.
  Matthew Leonard † Army Platoon Sergeant Suoi Da—South Vietnamnear Suoi Da, South Vietnam February 28, 1967 After being shot in the hand by a sniper, he exposed himself to enemy gunfire and charged a machine gun, killing the enemy there. He was shot multiple times and propped himself up against a tree and continued to fire until he succumbed to his injuries.
  John L. Levitow Air Force Airman First Class Long Binh Army post, South Vietnam February 24, 1969 For diving on top of a flare to eject it from an aircraft, saving the aircraft and the entire crew on board
  Angelo J. Liteky Army Captain Phuoc—Lac—Biên Hòa Province—South Vietnamnear Phuoc-Lac, Biên Hòa Province December 6, 1967 Was a Chaplain who carried 20 wounded men from the battlefield under heavy fire. He later renounced his medal of honor.
  Gary L. Littrell Army Sergeant First Class Kon Tum Province April 4, 1970 – April 8, 1970 Risked his life to direct artillery and air support by day and marked the unit's location by night; despite enemy fire he led his men against the enemy until help arrived.
  James E. Livingston Marine Corps Captain Dai Do, South Vietnam May 2, 1968 Although twice painfully wounded by grenade fragments, he refused medical treatment and courageously led his men in the destruction of over 100 mutually supporting bunkers, driving the remaining enemy from their positions, and relieving the pressure on the stranded Marine company. Also while wounded and in the open, continued to give orders to his troops to repel the enemy. He refused to be evacuated until his men were safe.
  Donald R. Long † Army Sergeant South Vietnam June 30, 1966 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Carlos J. Lozada † Army Private First Class Đắk Tô November 20, 1967 For providing covering fire at the cost of his own life during a withdrawal
  Andre C. Lucas † Army Lieutenant Colonel Fire Support Base Ripcord July 1, 1970 – July 23, 1970 For extraordinary heroism while serving as the commanding officer of the 2d Battalion
  Allen J. Lynch Army Specialist Four My An—Bien Dinh Province—South Vietnamnear Mỹ An (2), Bình Định Province December 15, 1967 For providing critical aid to wounded comrades under heavy fire
  Walter J. Marm, Jr. Army Second Lieutenant Ia Drang Valley—South Vietnamnear Ia Drang Valley November 14, 1965 For actions in Ia Drang, in which he led a successful one man assault on an enemy hill
  Gary W. Martini † Marine Corps Private First Class Bình Sơn April 21, 1967 Sacrificed his life to move a wounded comrade to safety
  Larry L. Maxam † Marine Corps Corporal Cam Lộ District, Quảng Trị Province February 2, 1968 Sacrificed his life to single-handedly repel a large enemy force from attacking through a weakened perimeter for over 1½ hours.
  Finnis D. McCleery Army Platoon Sergeant Quảng Tín Province May 14, 1968 Although wounded in an assault on a bunker complex, he continued attacking until wounded a second time by shrapnel eliminating the enemy from the hill
  James C. McCloughan Army Private First Class Quảng Nam Province May 13, 1969–May 15, 1969 Continued to treat wounded and help repulse enemy assault although himself wounded
—
 Phill G. McDonald † Army Private First Class Kon Tum City—South Vietnamnear Kon Tum City June 7, 1968 Was killed after attacking the enemy multiple times with grenades and rifle fire
  John J. McGinty III Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Quảng Trị Province July 18, 1966 Found a separated unit of twenty wounded men, reloaded their weapons and directed their fire at the enemy until they attempted a counter-attack. He then directed fire at the enemy and although wounded adjusted artillery and air strikes within fifty yards of his position until the enemy had been repelled.
—
 Ray McKibben † Army Sergeant near Song Mao, South Vietnam December 8, 1968 Single-handedly destroyed an enemy bunker, rescued a wounded comrade from under heavy fire, and attacked and destroyed two more bunkers by himself before being mortally wounded while attacking a fourth bunker.
  Thomas J. McMahon † Army Specialist Four Quảng Tín Province March 19, 1969 While attempting to rescue three wounded soldiers despite heavy enemy fire, he was able to carry two of the men to safety but was killed while trying to rescue the third.
  David H. McNerney Army First Sergeant Polei Doc, South Vietnam March 22, 1967 Despite being wounded after his unit was attacked, he assumed command of the unit when the company commander was killed, organized the defense, and helped arrange a helicopter evacuation of the wounded. He refused his own medical evacuation and instead stayed with the company until a new commander arrived.
  Edgar L. McWethy, Jr. † Army Specialist Five Bình Định Province June 21, 1967 Repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to treat his wounded comrades despite being wounded three times himself and continued to help his fellow soldiers until suffering a fourth and fatal wound.
  Don L. Michael † Army Specialist Four South Vietnam April 8, 1967 Single-handedly destroyed a Viet Cong bunker and was then killed while chasing the retreating enemy soldiers.
—
 Franklin D. Miller Army Staff Sergeant Kon Tum Province January 5, 1970 He single-handedly held off an enemy assault, arranged for a helicopter extraction of his unit, and again fought off the enemy alone until relief arrived, although wounded himself.
—
 Gary L. Miller † Army First Lieutenant Bình Dương Province February 16, 1969 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Robert J. Modrzejewski Marine Corps Captain South Vietnam July 15, 1966 – July 18, 1966 Led his men in the seizure of enemy ammunition and supplies and continued to counterattack the enemy using artillery fire and air support.
—
 Ferenc Zoltán Molnár † Army Staff Sergeant Kon Tum Province May 20, 1967 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  James H. Monroe † Army Private First Class Bồng Sơn, Hoài Nhơn District February 16, 1967 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  William D. Morgan † Marine Corps Corporal Quảng Trị Province February 25, 1969 For creating a diversion at the expense of his own life and providing his squad time to evacuate two wounded soldiers
  Charles B. Morris Army Sergeant South Vietnam June 29, 1966 Continued to lead his squad, fight the enemy, and help the wounded despite being wounded himself four separate times.
  Melvin Morris Army Staff Sergeant near Chi Lăng September 17, 1969 For his courageous actions while serving as Commander of a Strike Force drawn from Company D, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, during combat operations against an armed enemy.[11][13]
—
 Robert C. Murray † Army Staff Sergeant Hiep Duc—South Vietnamnear Hiệp Đức June 7, 1970 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
—
 David P. Nash † Army Private First Class Giao Duc District, Dinh Tuong Province December 29, 1968 For covering a grenade with his body in order to protect those around him
  Melvin E. Newlin † Marine Corps Private First Class Quảng Nam Province July 4, 1967 Killed while single-handedly attacking an enemy force, breaking up and disorganizing the enemy
  Thomas P. Noonan, Jr. † Marine Corps Lance Corporal near Vandegrift Combat Base, Quảng Trị Province February 5, 1969 Killed while attempting to rescue a wounded man
  Thomas R. Norris Navy Lieutenant Quảng Trị Province April 10, 1972 – April 13, 1972 Rescued two downed pilots deep within heavily controlled enemy territory
  Michael J. Novosel Army Chief Warrant Officer Kien Tuong Province October 2, 1969 For the rescue of 29 American and South Vietnamese soldiers from a heavily fortified enemy training area without any cover or gunship support.
  Milton L. Olive, III † Army Private First Class Phu Cuong October 22, 1965 For smothering a grenade blast with his body. The first African American Medal of Honor recipient of the Vietnam War.
  Kenneth L. Olson † Army Specialist Four Long An May 13, 1968 For smothering a grenade blast with his body
  Robert E. O'Malley Marine Corps Corporal An Cu'ong—South Vietnamnear An Cu'ong 2, South Vietnam August 18, 1965 Risked his life and led his men to repeatedly attack the enemy, assist another Marine unit that had inflicted heavy casualties and led his unit to a helicopter for evacuation.
—
 David G. Ouellet † Navy Seaman Mekong River March 6, 1967 Placed himself between an enemy grenade and his shipmates, absorbing most of the blast fragments with his own body in order to protect his shipmates from injury and death.
  Robert M. Patterson Army Specialist Four near La Chu, Thừa Thiên Province May 6, 1968 During a firefight he single-handedly destroyed a series of enemy bunkers
  Joe C. Paul † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Chu Lai—South Vietnamnear Chu Lai August 18, 1965 Killed while defending his wounded comrades from the enemy and delivered effective suppressive fire in order to divert the Viet Cong long enough to allow the casualties to be evacuated.
  Richard A. Penry Army Sergeant Bình Tuy Province January 31, 1970 Helped to organize defenses and repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to retrieve supplies and return fire. Voluntarily left the perimeter, set up a guiding beacon, established the priorities for evacuation and successively carried 18 wounded men to the extraction site. After all wounded had been evacuated he joined another platoon and assisted in pursuing the enemy.
  William T. Perkins, Jr. † Marine Corps Corporal Quảng Trị Province October 12, 1967 Sacrificed himself by smothering an enemy grenade with his body to save the lives of three fellow Marines and is the only combat photographer to have received the Medal of Honor.
  Lawrence D. Peters † Marine Corps Sergeant Quảng Tín Province September 4, 1967 After being struck by enemy mortar, machine gun, and small arms fire he continuously fought and led his men against the enemy until dying from his wounds.
—
 Danny J. Petersen † Army Specialist Four Tây Ninh Province January 9, 1970 Repeatedly exposed himself and his armored personnel carrier to enemy fire in order to protect the other soldiers of his unit and after his vehicle was disabled, he stayed behind and was killed while providing covering fire so others could withdraw.
  Jimmy W. Phipps † Marine Corps Private First Class near An Hoa Combat Base May 27, 1969 Sacrificed himself to save others by smothering an enemy grenade with his body
  Larry S. Pierce † Army Sergeant Ben Cat—South Vietnamnear Bến Cát September 20, 1965 Sacrificed himself to save others by smothering an enemy grenade with his body
  William H. Pitsenbarger † Air Force Airman First Class Cam My—South Vietnamnear Cẩm Mỹ April 11, 1966 For refusing evacuation while tending wounded and defending the unit's position. Originally awarded the Air Force Cross, was upgraded to Medal of Honor by Congress in 2000, after review of his actions.
  Richard A. Pittman Marine Corps Lance Corporal Demilitarized Zone—South Vietnamnear the Demilitarized Zone July 24, 1966 Risked his life to assist a group of Marines who had been attacked by a larger enemy force
  Riley L. Pitts † Army Captain Ap Dong October 31, 1967 Killed after attacking an enemy force with rifle fire and grenades. Was the first African American commissioned officer to be awarded the Medal of Honor.
  Stephen W. Pless Marine Corps Captain Quang Nai—South Vietnamnear Quảng Ngãi August 19, 1967 For rescuing a group of surrounded American troops with his helicopter
—
 William D. Port † Army Private First Class Que Son Valley, Quảng Tín Province January 12, 1968 Rescued a wounded comrade and then smothered the blast of an enemy-thrown grenade with his body to protect other soldiers. He survived the blast, but was seriously wounded and captured by the enemy dying while a prisoner of war ten months later.
—
 Robert L. Poxon † Army First Lieutenant Tây Ninh Province June 2, 1969 Was wounded when attempting to rescue a wounded soldier and despite his injuries, led his platoon and succeeded in destroying an enemy bunker before being killed.
  William R. Prom † Marine Corps Lance Corporal near An Hoa Combat Base February 9, 1969 Sacrificed his life to direct fire at the enemy at point blank range
—
 Robert J. Pruden † Army Staff Sergeant Quảng Ngãi Province November 29, 1969 Sacrificed himself to ensure evacuation helicopters were able to withdraw his team.
  Laszlo Rabel † Army Staff Sergeant Bình Định Province November 13, 1968 For falling on a grenade to save his comrades
  Alfred V. Rascon Army Specialist Four South Vietnam March 16, 1966 Specialist Rascon's showed extraordinary valor in the face of deadly enemy fire, heroism in rescuing the wounded, and gallantry by repeatedly risking his own life for his fellow soldiers.
  David R. Ray † Navy Hospital Corpsman Second Class Quảng Nam Province March 19, 1969 For gallantry and intrepidity in defending his position and giving aid to wounded Marines
  Ronald E. Ray Army First Lieutenant Ia Drang Valley June 19, 1966 For eliminating enemy fire with available weapons and shielding his men from an enemy grenade
  Frank S. Reasoner † Marine Corps First Lieutenant Da Nang—South Vietnamnear Da Nang July 12, 1965 For attempting to rescue one of his wounded men on a Marine recon patrol
—
 Anund C. Roark † Army Sergeant Kon Tum Province May 16, 1968 Sacrificed his life to save his fellow soldiers by smothering a grenade with his body
  Gordon R. Roberts Army Specialist Four Thừa Thiên Province July 11, 1969 For efforts in retrieving wounded personnel and defending his platoon
—
 James W. Robinson, Jr. † Army Sergeant South Vietnam April 11, 1966 Sacrificed his life to destroy an enemy bunker and protect several of his fellow soldiers
  Louis R. Rocco Army Sergeant First Class northeast of Katum May 24, 1970 Distinguished himself when he volunteered to accompany a medical evacuation team on an urgent mission to evacuate eight critically wounded Army of the Republic of Vietnam personnel.
  Jose Rodela Army Sergeant First Class Phuoc Long Province September 1, 1969 Repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to attend to the fallen and eliminate an enemy rocket position.
  Charles C. Rogers Army Lieutenant Colonel Fishhook, near Cambodian border November 1, 1968 Risked his life to repel the enemy and protect his soldiers during an enemy assault on his firebase.
  Gary M. Rose Army Captain Chavan, Laos September 11, 1970 – September 14, 1970 Risked his life to treat 60–70 personnel, despite being wounded multiple times during Operation Tailwind.
  Eurípides Rubio † Army Captain Tây Ninh Province November 8, 1966 For efforts in directing an air strike on enemy forces
  Leslie H. Sabo, Jr. † Army Specialist Four Near Se San Village, Cambodia May 10, 1970 For heroic action when his platoon was ambushed by North Vietnamese forces near the village of Se San in eastern Cambodia.
  Héctor Santiago-Colón † Army Specialist Four Quảng Trị Province June 28, 1968 For falling on a grenade to save his comrades and is one of five Puerto Ricans who have been posthumously presented with the Medal of Honor.
—
 Ruppert L. Sargent † Army First Lieutenant Hậu Nghĩa Province March 15, 1967 On that day, while in Hậu Nghĩa Province in the Republic of Vietnam, Sargent threw himself on two enemy hand grenades, sacrificing himself but saving the lives of two men nearby.
  Clarence E. Sasser Army Private First Class Dinh Tuong Province January 10, 1968 Risked his life to save several wounded soldiers and although severely wounded himself continued treating their wounds for five hours until they were rescued.
  William W. Seay † Army Sergeant Ap Nhi—South Vietnamnear Ap Nhi August 25, 1968 When his convoy came under attack that day, near Ap Nhi in the Republic of Vietnam, Seay twice left his protective cover to toss enemy-thrown hand grenades back at the North Vietnamese forces. Despite being wounded in the wrist, he again exposed himself to enemy fire and was fatally shot.
  Daniel J. Shea † Army Private First Class Quảng Trị Province May 14, 1969 Killed by enemy gunfire after assisting in the defeat of an attacking enemy force
  Marvin G. Shields † Navy Construction Mechanic Third Class Đồng Xoài June 10, 1965 Killed after rescuing several wounded, assisting in destroying an enemy gun emplacement and resupplying ammunition to his unit
  Lance P. Sijan † Air Force Captain North Vietnam November 9, 1967 For actions as a prisoner of war from November 9, 1967 – January 22, 1968
—
 Clifford C. Sims † Army Staff Sergeant Huế—South Vietnamnear Huế February 21, 1968 Sims threw himself onto a triggered booby-trap device. He was killed in the ensuing explosion, but was successful in protecting the members of his squad.
  Walter K. Singleton † Marine Corps Sergeant Gio Linh District, Quảng Trị Province March 24, 1967 Killed in an attack where he killed eight of the enemy and drove the remainder away
  George K. Sisler † Army First Lieutenant South Vietnam February 7, 1967 Organized the defense, rescued a wounded soldier, and single-handedly attacked an enemy position before being killed
—
 Donald S. Skidgel † Army Sergeant Song Be—South Vietnamnear Sông Bé September 14, 1969 Killed attempting to draw enemy fire away from his convoy after manning a machine gun in his vehicle
  Donald P. Sloat † Army Specialist Four Quảng Tín Province January 17, 1970 Killed using his body to shield comrades from a grenade blast
  Larry E. Smedley † Marine Corps Corporal Quảng Nam Province December 21, 1967 Assaulted the enemy with grenades and rifle fire until dying from his wounds
  Elmelindo R. Smith † Army Staff Sergeant South Vietnam February 16, 1967 Although wounded by a rocket he led his platoon in a patrol when enemy forces attacked with machine gun, mortars and rocket fire.
  James M. Sprayberry Army First Lieutenant South Vietnam April 25, 1968 Led a patrol which rescued men who had been wounded and cut off from the rest of the company and in the process destroyed several enemy bunkers and machine gun emplacements.
—
 Russell A. Steindam † Army First Lieutenant Tây Ninh Province February 1, 1970 For defending company from an enemy grenade
—
 Jimmy G. Stewart † Army Staff Sergeant South Vietnam May 18, 1966 Sacrificed himself to hold his company's position against the enemy allowing others to come to his aid and repel the enemy force
  James B. Stockdale Navy Captain Hỏa Lò Prison, Hanoi, North Vietnam September 4, 1969 For action as a prisoner of war
—
 Lester R. Stone, Jr. † Army Sergeant west of Landing Zone Liz March 3, 1969 Sacrificed his life by manning a machine gun in an exposed position during an enemy attack, allowing others to rescue a wounded comrade
—
 Mitchell W. Stout † Army Sergeant Khe Gio Bridge March 12, 1970 Sacrificed his life to save others by smothering a grenade with his body
—
 Robert F. Stryker † Army Specialist Four Loc Ninh—South Vietnamnear Lộc Ninh November 7, 1967 Sacrificed his life to save several fellow soldiers by smothering a claymore mine with his body
  Kenneth E. Stumpf Army Specialist Four Duc Pho—South Vietnamnear Đức Phổ April 25, 1967 Risked his life by rescuing three injured squad members and then led his squad to attack and destroy a heavily fortified enemy bunker complex.
  Jon E. Swanson † Army Captain Cambodia February 26, 1971 Sacrificed his life by flying his aircraft dangerously slow and low to destroy enemy machine gun emplacements until his aircraft was shot down.
James A. Taylor Army First Lieutenant Que Son—South Vietnamwest of Quế Sơn November 9, 1967 Risked his life to save the lives of a number of his fellow soldiers
  Karl G. Taylor, Sr. † Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Dodge City, Quảng Nam Province December 8, 1968 Sacrificed his life to save the lives of several Marines by taking out an enemy bunker
  Larry Taylor Army First Lieutenant Bình Dương province June 12, 1969 AH-1 Cobra pilot who rescued four soldiers under enemy fire
  Brian M. Thacker Army First Lieutenant Kon Tum Province March 31, 1971 Risked his own life to allow his unit to escape
  Michael E. Thornton Navy Engineman Second Class Quảng Trị Province October 31, 1972 Saved the life of his superior officer and allowed the other members of his patrol to escape
  Leo K. Thorsness Air Force Major over North Vietnam April 19, 1967 Risked his life to assist in the rescue of three downed aviators
  Jay R. Vargas Marine Corps Captain Dai Do April 30, 1968 – May 2, 1968 Vargas requested that his mother's name, M. Sando Vargas, Jr., be engraved on the medal and added to the rolls.
  Humbert R. Versace † Army Captain Cà Mau October 29, 1963 – September 26, 1965 Was executed by the Viet Cong while a prisoner of war after repeated escape attempts, torture and maltreatment
  John E. Warren, Jr. † Army First Lieutenant Tây Ninh Province January 14, 1969 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
  Charles J. Watters † Army Major Battle of Dak To November 19, 1967 Was a chaplain who sacrificed himself to rescue several wounded men
—
 Dale E. Wayrynen † Army Specialist Four Quảng Ngãi Province May 18, 1967 For smothering a grenade blast with his body to protect those around him
  Lester W. Weber † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Quảng Nam Province February 23, 1969 After fighting back four enemy soldiers and causing 11 others to retreat was killed by a fifth enemy soldier
  Gary G. Wetzel Army Private First Class Ap dong An—South Vietnamnear Ap Dong An January 8, 1968 Although losing his arm and repeatedly losing consciousness from loss of blood after the helicopter he was on was shot down he fought back an enemy gun emplacement and assisted in the rescue of a fallen officer.
  Roy M. Wheat † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Dien Ban District, Quảng Nam Province August 11, 1967 Sacrificed his life by smothering a mine with his body
  Jerry W. Wickam † Army Corporal Loc Ninh—South Vietnamnear Lộc Ninh January 6, 1968 Killed after repeatedly attacking and defeating the enemy
  Hilliard A. Wilbanks † Air Force Captain Da Lat—South Vietnamnear Da Lat February 24, 1967 Distinguished himself by realizing that Army Rangers were walking into an ambush and, with no air support close by and no radio communication with the Rangers, he sacrificed his life to alert the Rangers of the danger.
—
 Louis E. Willett † Army Private First Class Kon Tum Province February 15, 1967 For twice providing covering fire for his squad's withdrawal despite heavy enemy fire
—
 Charles Q. Williams Army Second Lieutenant Đồng Xoài June 9, 1965 – June 10, 1965 After a group of enemy insurgents attacked he organized a defense and repelled the enemy throughout the night
  Dewayne T. Williams † Marine Corps Private First Class Quảng Nam Province September 18, 1968 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
  James E. Williams Navy Boatswain's Mate First Class Mekong River October 31, 1966 Against overwhelming odds, several times Williams led his PBRs (Patrol Boats, River) against concentrations of enemy junks and sampans. As a result of the three-hour battle, the American naval force killed numerous Viet Cong guerrillas, destroyed over fifty vessels, and disrupted a major enemy logistic operation.
  Alfred M. Wilson † Marine Corps Private First Class Quảng Trị Province March 3, 1969 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
  David F. Winder † Army Private First Class South Vietnam May 13, 1970 Sacrificed his life in an attempt to assist a wounded soldier
  Kenneth L. Worley † Marine Corps Lance Corporal Bo Ban, Quảng Nam Province August 12, 1968 Sacrificed his life by smothering a grenade with his body
  Raymond R. Wright Army Specialist Four Ap Bac Zone May 2, 1967 Along with another soldier attacked and defeated multiple enemy bunkers
  Maximo Yabes † Army First Sergeant Phu Hoa Dong—South Vietnamnear Phu Hoa Dong February 26, 1967 Used his body as a shield to protect others in a bunker, moved two wounded men to a safer position where they could be given medical treatment and destroyed an enemy machine gun position before being killed.
  Rodney J. T. Yano † Army Sergeant First Class Biên Hòa—South Vietnamnear Biên Hòa January 1, 1969 For sacrificing his life to save the other members of his aircrew
—
 Gordon D. Yntema † Army Sergeant Thang Binh—South Vietnamnear Thăng Bình January 16, 1968 – January 18, 1968 Defended several fallen comrades and forced the Vietnamese to kill him rather than be captured.
  Gerald O. Young Air Force Captain Khe Sanh November 9, 1967 Distinguished himself while serving as a helicopter rescue crew commander
—
 Marvin R. Young † Army Staff Sergeant Ben Cui—South Vietnamnear Bến Củi August 21, 1968 For sacrificing his life so his unit could escape
—
 Fred W. Zabitosky Army Staff Sergeant February 19, 1968 Zabitosky directed the defense until rescue helicopters arrived, and when the helicopter that was to extract him from the battlefield crashed, he ignored his own injuries to save the downed craft's pilot.

Unknown soldier edit

The unknown soldier from the Vietnam War who was buried in the Tomb of the Unknowns was authorized a Medal of Honor and in 1998 was identified as 1st Lieutenant Michael Blassie, USAF. After DNA testing confirmed his identity, the remains were removed from the tomb and returned to Blassie's family, but the Medal of Honor did not transfer with him. It remains awarded to "the unknown soldier" as a tribute to the war dead who have not yet been identified. The Blassie family requested that the Medal of Honor be granted to him but the request was denied by the Department of Defense.[14]

See also edit

References edit

  This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Army Center of Military History.
  1. ^ "A Brief History — The Medal of Honor". Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Department of Defense. August 8, 2006. Archived from the original on May 19, 2009. Retrieved February 9, 2010.
  2. ^ "Vietnam War". Encyclopædia Britannica. Archived from the original on July 25, 2008. Retrieved March 5, 2008. Meanwhile, the United States, its military demoralized and its civilian electorate deeply divided, began a process of coming to terms with defeat in its longest and most controversial war
  3. ^ The Medal of Honor Historical Society of the United States at http://www.mohhsus.com/medal-of-honor shows 266 awards for Vietnam excluding the Vietnam Unknown listed with the group of nine Unknowns. The Congressional Medal of Honor Society at http://www.cmohs.org/medal-statistics.php lists 262 awards for Vietnam including the Vietnam Unknown. Both societies include US Navy recipient William McGonagle, in the Eastern Mediterranean on June 8, 1967, in their Vietnam totals.
  4. ^ Murphy, 1987, pp. 13–23
  5. ^ Murphy, 1987, pp. 36–38
  6. ^ Murphy, 1987, p. 97
  7. ^ Murphy, 1987, pp. 156–158
  8. ^ Murphy, 1987, pp. 150–151
  9. ^ "Medal of Honor recipients". Vietnam War (A–L). United States Army Center of Military History. June 8, 2009. Archived from the original on June 27, 2009. Retrieved June 29, 2009.
  10. ^ "Medal of Honor recipients". Vietnam War (M–Z). United States Army Center of Military History. June 8, 2009. Archived from the original on April 24, 2008. Retrieved June 29, 2009.
  11. ^ a b Vergun, David (21 February 2014). "President announces 24 Soldiers to receive Medals of Honor". Army News Service. Retrieved 22 February 2014.
  12. ^ Wilson, Scott (21 February 2014). "Obama to award Medal of Honor to two dozen veterans, including 19 discrimination victims". Washington Post. Retrieved 22 February 2014.
  13. ^ "President Obama to Award Medal of Honor". The White House, Office of the Press Secretary. 21 February 2014. Retrieved 22 February 2014.
  14. ^ "Vietnam Unknown's Medal of Honor Transfer Denied". Press release. American Forces Press Service. August 25, 1998. Archived from the original on December 1, 2009. Retrieved February 11, 2010.
  • Murphy, Edward F. (July 1987). Vietnam Medal of Honor Heroes. New York: Ballantine Books. ISBN 978-0-345-33890-7.

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