Episode 2978 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient U.S. Army LTC Alfred V. Rascon – A Saint.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army LTC Alfred V. Rascon.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army LTC Alfred V. Rascon.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2978 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army LTC Alfred V. Rascon. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the the Department of Defense Medal of Honor Monday program story by Katie Lang.

U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Alfred V. Rascon is a true American hero, earning the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary valor during the Vietnam War. On March 16, 1966, then-Specialist Four Rascon was serving as a medic with Reconnaissance Platoon, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade in Long Khánh Province, South Vietnam.

During a ferocious enemy ambush, Rascon braved intense enemy fire to aid his wounded comrades. Disregarding his own safety, he ran through a hail of bullets to reach the most critically injured soldiers. Despite being wounded multiple times, he shielded others with his own body, absorbing grenade blasts and shrapnel. Severely injured and bleeding, Rascon continued to treat the wounded, refusing evacuation until his fellow paratroopers were safe.

His selfless heroism and unwavering courage ensured the survival of many that day. However, due to the chaos of battle, his actions went unrecognized for decades. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded Rascon the Medal of Honor, correcting the historical oversight and honoring his exceptional bravery.

Beyond his combat heroism, Rascon dedicated his life to serving fellow soldiers, later becoming the Inspector General of the Selective Service System. His story remains an inspiration, embodying the highest ideals of duty, honor, and sacrifice. Today, he stands as a shining example of the Vietnam War’s unsung heroes, a soldier who risked everything for his brothers in arms.

Listen to Episode 2978 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army LTC Alfred V. Rascon.

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Episode 2977 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient U.S. Army SSG Laszlo Rabel – A Saint.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Laszlo Rabel.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Laszlo Rabel.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2977 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Laszlo Rabel. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the Minnesota Medal of Honor Memorial..

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Laszlo Rabel was a true American hero who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War. Born in Hungary in 1939, Rabel later immigrated to the United States, where he enlisted in the U.S. Army and became part of the elite 75th Infantry Regiment (Ranger), 1st Infantry Division. His courage and selflessness on November 13, 1968, in Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam, earned him the nation’s highest military decoration—the Medal of Honor.

On that fateful day, SSG Laszlo Rabel and his long-range reconnaissance patrol (LRRP) were conducting a dangerous mission deep in enemy-controlled territory. As they moved through the dense Vietnamese jungle, a concealed Viet Cong force ambushed them. Without warning, an enemy soldier lobbed a grenade into their small patrol’s position.

Realizing the imminent danger to his team, Rabel made a split-second decision that would define his legacy. With extraordinary bravery, he threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing the full blast with his body. His selfless action saved the lives of his fellow soldiers but cost him his own.

For his conspicuous gallantry, unwavering devotion, and extraordinary heroism, SSG Laszlo Rabel was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His sacrifice epitomizes the Army values of loyalty, duty, and selfless service.

Today, his name is etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., a lasting tribute to a Ranger who gave his life so others might live.

Listen to Episode 2977 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Laszlo Rabel.

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Episode 2976 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient U.S. Marine LCpl .William R. Prom – A Saint

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine LCpl .William R. Prom.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine LCpl .William R. Prom.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2976 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine LCpl William R. Prom. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and Tara Ross.

Lance Corporal William R. Prom was a U.S. Marine who displayed extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War, ultimately earning the Medal of Honor for his selfless bravery.

On February 9, 1969, while serving as a machine gunner with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, LCpl Prom’s unit was conducting a combat patrol in Quảng NamProvince when they were ambushed by a heavily armed North Vietnamese Army (NVA) force. Under intense enemy fire, Prom fearlessly maneuvered forward, providing devastating suppressive fire to cover his fellow Marines. His aggressive actions allowed his unit to regroup and counterattack.

As the battle raged, Prom relentlessly advanced, even as enemy machine guns, mortars, and grenades rained down. Despite sustaining multiple wounds, he refused to retreat, continuing to fire his M60 machine gun with deadly accuracy, eliminating numerous enemy fighters.

Realizing his unit was still vulnerable, LCpl Prom once again charged forward, delivering effective fire that enabled his squad to reposition. In this final act of valor, he was mortally wounded, but his unwavering courage inspired his comrades to secure victory.

For his conspicuous gallantry, LCpl William R. Prom was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His fearless devotion to duty, indomitable fighting spirit, and self-sacrifice epitomize the Marine Corps motto: Semper Fidelis. His heroic legacy lives on as a testament to the bravery of those who fought in Vietnam.

Listen to Episode 2976 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine LCpl .William R. Prom.

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Episode 2975 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient Army 1LT Robert L. Poxon – A Saint

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 1LT Robert L. Poxon.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 1LT Robert L. Poxon.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2975 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army 1LT Robert L. Poxon. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and issuu.com.

1st Lt. Robert L. Poxon was a true hero of the Vietnam War, displaying extraordinary bravery in combat. Serving with B Company, 1st Regiment, 9th  Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, U.S. Army, he was deployed to Tay Ninh Province, South Vietnam in June 1969. On June 2, 1969, Poxon led his platoon on a search-and-clear mission when they came under intense enemy fire from well-fortified Viet Cong positions.

Despite the dangerous terrain and heavy resistance, Poxon fearlessly led an assault against the enemy bunkers. Advancing through a hail of bullets, he engaged the enemy, eliminating threats and directing his men to safety. During the battle, he was seriously wounded by enemy fire but refused to retreat. Instead, he continued fighting, urging his fellow soldiers forward and ensuring they gained the upper hand.

Though mortally wounded, Poxon’s courageous actions helped his unit overwhelm the enemy. He was later evacuated but succumbed to his injuries. For his selfless sacrifice and unwavering leadership, 1st Lt. Poxon was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration for valor. His legacy endures as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in Vietnam.

Poxon’s name is forever etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., ensuring that future generations remember his heroism, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice for his country.

Listen to Episode 2975 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army 1LT Robert L. Poxon.

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Episode 2974 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient Army SGT William D. Port – A Saint

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT William D. Port.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT William D. Port.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2974 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT William D. Port. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the Department of Defense Medal of Honor Monday program.

Army Sergeant William D. Port was a true hero of the Vietnam War, earning the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery in combat. Born in Petersburg, Pennsylvania, in 1941, SGT Port served with Company C, 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) during the conflict.

On January 12, 1968, near Que Son, Vietnam, SGT Port and his unit came under intense enemy fire from North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces. Amid the chaotic battle, he and his comrades were pinned down, fighting for their lives. As enemy fire rained upon them, a grenade landed dangerously close to their position. Without hesitation, SGT Port selflessly threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing the blast to save his fellow soldiers. Miraculously, though severely wounded, he survived the explosion.

Despite his injuries, SGT Port was captured by enemy forces and endured brutal conditions as a Prisoner of War (POW). He was later listed as Missing in Action (MIA) before being officially declared deceased. His unwavering courage and sacrifice were recognized posthumously when he was awarded the Medal of Honor on December 17, 1973.

SGT William D. Port’s valor, selflessness, and ultimate sacrifice embody the highest ideals of military service. His legacy lives on through his Medal of Honor citation, ensuring that future generations remember his heroism on the battlefield of Vietnam.

Listen to Episode 2974 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT William D. Port.

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Episode 2973 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient Marine Major Stephen W. Pless – A Bonafide Hero

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Marine Major Stephen W. Pless.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Marine Major Stephen W. Pless.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2973 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Major Stephen W. Pless. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

Major Stephen W. Pless, a United States Marine Corps officer, displayed extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War, earning the prestigious Medal of Honor. On August 19, 1967, then-Captain Pless was piloting a UH-1E Huey gunship with Marine Observation Squadron 6 (VMO-6) when he and his crew responded to a distress call near Quang Ngai Province.

Pless and his team encountered a harrowing scene—four American soldiers surrounded by a superior force of Viet Cong on a beach, facing imminent death. Demonstrating unparalleled courage and determination, he executed repeated low-altitude, high-risk attack runs, using his aircraft’s rockets and machine guns to suppress enemy fire. As his crew provided cover, Pless skillfully landed amid the chaos, personally pulling the wounded soldiers aboard under intense enemy gunfire.

Despite taking heavy fire and with his helicopter severely damaged, Pless performed a masterful takeoff, saving the American troops and his crew from certain death. For his selfless bravery and unwavering leadership, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, becoming the only Marine aviator to receive the nation’s highest military decoration for heroism during the Vietnam War.

Pless later achieved the rank of Major, continuing his service until his untimely death in 1969. His legacy as a courageous Marine pilot and a Vietnam War hero remains an inspiration to all who serve. His name is etched in the annals of Marine Corps history as a testament to bravery, sacrifice, and duty.

Listen to Episode 2973 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Marine Major Stephen W. Pless.

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Episode 2972 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient Army CPT Riley L. Pitts – A Bonafide Hero

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army CPT Riley L. Pitts.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army CPT Riley L. Pitts.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2972 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine MSG Richard A. Pittman. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

U.S. Army Captain Riley L. Pitts was a true American hero and the first Black officer to receive the Medal of Honor for combat valor. Serving in Vietnam with the 25th Infantry Division, CPT Pitts demonstrated extraordinary bravery on October 31, 1967, near Ap Dong, South Vietnam.

Leading his company into battle, CPT Pitts faced intense enemy fire. Despite overwhelming odds, he fearlessly charged enemy positions, throwing grenades and directing airstrikes to support his men. When one grenade failed to clear a bunker, he heroically picked it up and tried again, fully exposing himself to enemy fire. His selfless actions saved lives but ultimately cost him his own.

For his unparalleled courage and leadership, CPT Riley L. Pitts was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on December 10, 1968. His sacrifice remains a testament to the valor and dedication of U.S. soldiers in the Vietnam War.

His honors include: Pitts Park in Oklahoma City is named in his honor. A mural depicting Pitts is to be unveiled 2023-11-11 at Pitts Park

Post No. GR07 of The American Legion, Department of France, at Wiesbaden, Germany, was named after him.[The Post was originally chartered on April 15, 1988, at Worms, West Germany.

Listen to Episode 2972 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army CPT Riley L. Pitts.

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Episode 2971 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient U.S. Marine MSG Richard A. Pittman – A Bonafide Hero

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine MSG Richard A. Pittman.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine MSG Richard A. Pittman.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2971 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine MSG Richard A. Pittman. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

Marine Master Sergeant Richard A. Pittman was a true hero of the Vietnam War, earning the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery in combat. Born in Stockton, California, Pittman enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1964, determined to serve his country during one of its most challenging conflicts.

On July 24, 1966, then-Sergeant Pittman was serving as a machine gunner with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division near Quang Tin Province, Vietnam. As his unit advanced on a narrow jungle trail, they were suddenly ambushed by a North Vietnamese Army (NVA) force with intense automatic weapons, mortars, and recoilless rifle fire. The Marines suffered heavy casualties and became pinned down.

Realizing the dire situation, Pittman grabbed a M60 machine gun and extra ammunition, charging through enemy fire to assist his trapped comrades. Single-handedly, he engaged multiple NVA positions, neutralizing enemy gunners and disrupting their assault. He continued advancing, ultimately forcing the enemy to withdraw. His fearless actions saved numerous Marines and turned the tide of battle.

For his selfless courage, Pittman was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968. After Vietnam, he continued his distinguished Marine Corps career, retiring as a Master Sergeant. Pittman’s legacy remains a shining example of the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment.

His bravery in Vietnam serves as an enduring tribute to the sacrifice of all U.S. Marines who fought in one of America’s toughest wars.

Listen to Episode 2971 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine MSG Richard A. Pittman.

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Episode 2970 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient Air Force SSG William H. Pitsenbarger – A Bonafide Hero

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Air Force Pararescueman SSG William H. Pitsenbarger.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Air Force Pararescueman SSG William H. Pitsenbarger.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2970 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Air Force Pararescueman SSG William H. Pitsenbarger. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and The Air and Space Forces Magazine.      

Staff Sergeant William H. Pitsenbarger had a choice. He could have stayed safe aboard the HH-43 Huskie, circling high above the jungle. Instead, he chose to descend into hell.

It was April 11, 1966. In the dense Vietnamese jungle near Cam My, soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division were pinned down by a relentless Viet Cong assault. Their wounded lay scattered, dying. Pitsenbarger, a U.S. Air Force Pararescueman, volunteered to lower himself into the chaos.

Under a rain of gunfire, he moved from man to man, treating wounds, offering reassurance, dragging the fallen to safety. When the evacuation order came, he refused to leave. He chose to stay behind, knowing the next helicopter might not return.

With ammunition running low, he picked up a rifle and fought. He manned a wounded soldier’s M16, fired at the advancing enemy, and redistributed ammunition to his brothers in arms. Despite wounds of his own, he never stopped. A sniper’s bullet finally felled him, but his courage lived on in those he saved.

For his heroism, William H. Pitsenbarger was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His legacy endures, a testament to the selflessness of a man who chose to stay, to fight, to save. His sacrifice is etched in history, not just in medals, but in the lives he touched.

He was more than an airman. He was a guardian angel, descending from the skies, giving everything for his brothers.

The United States Navy Container Ship MV A1C William H. Pitsenbarger (T-AK-4638) was christened in his honor, but was decommissioned and returned to its original owner in 2008 with the new name Black Eagle.

In addition several buildings have been named in his honor including William H. Pitsenbarger Dining Hall, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio; William H. Pitsenbarger Professional Military Education Center, Beale Air Force Base, California; William H. Pitsenbarger Airman Leadership School, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany; Pitsenbarger Hall, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas and Pitsenbarger Fitness Center, Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas.

The 2019 film The Last Full Measure depicting Pitsenbarger’s life stars Jeremy Irvine as Pitsenbarger.

Listen to Episode 2970 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Air Force Pararescueman SSG William H. Pitsenbarger.

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Episode 2969 – Tribute to Vietnam MoH recipient Army SSG Larry S. Pierce – A Saint

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Larry S. Pierce.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Larry S. Pierce.

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

Episode 2969 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Larry S. Pierce. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and The Hawaii Reporter.    

Army Staff Sergeant Larry Stanley Pierce was a true American hero. Born on July 6, 1941, in Wewoka, Oklahoma, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the U.S. Army. As a member of the 1st Battalion, 1st of the 503rd Inf, 173 Airborne Brigade, he fought with courage and dedication during the Vietnam War.

On September 20, 1965, near Ben Cat, South Vietnam, SSG Pierce displayed extraordinary bravery that earned him the Medal of Honor. While leading a reconnaissance platoon, he encountered an enemy ambush. Under heavy fire, he skillfully maneuvered his men into defensive positions, suppressing enemy attacks. As his unit advanced, they came upon a deadly minefield. Suddenly, SSG Pierce spotted a concealed mine directly in their path. Without hesitation, he lunged forward, using his own body to shield his fellow soldiers from the blast. The explosion took his life instantly, but his selfless sacrifice saved countless others.

For his gallantry and unwavering heroism, SSG Pierce was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His name is forever etched in history as a symbol of courage, selflessness, and duty. His bravery exemplifies the highest ideals of the U.S. Army and the Vietnam War’s unsung heroes.

Today, his legacy lives on. On February 6, 2008, the post office in Taft was renamed the “Larry S. Pierce Post Office” in his honor. A portion of California State Route 46 which runs through Wasco was designated the “Staff Sgt. Larry S. Pierce Memorial Highway” in 2009.[SSG Larry S. Pierce gave everything for his brothers-in-arms and his country—his story is one of ultimate sacrifice and true patriotism.

SSG Larry S. Pierce gave everything for his brothers-in-arms and his country—his story is one of ultimate sacrifice and true patriotism.

Listen to Episode 2969 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Larry S. Pierce.

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