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Vietnam MoH Recipient Army CPL Frank R. Fratellenico

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2862  of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army CPL Frank R. Fratellenico and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from stories that appeared on Wikipedia and the Find a Grave website and was titled: Frank Rocco Fratellenico.

Army Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico was a brave soldier who gave his life for his comrades and country during the Vietnam War. Born in 1947 in New York, Fratellenico joined the U.S. Army and was deployed to Vietnam as part of the 101st Airborne Division. On August 19, 1970, while serving in Quang Tri Province, his unit came under heavy enemy fire during a patrol. As the battle intensified, one of his fellow soldiers was critically wounded and lay exposed in the open, vulnerable to the relentless enemy fire.

Without hesitation, Fratellenico raced through the hail of bullets to reach his comrade. Despite the danger, he managed to reach the wounded soldier and began to drag him to safety. As he shielded the soldier with his own body, Fratellenico was struck and fatally wounded. His selfless action saved the life of his comrade, but it cost him his own.

For his extraordinary heroism and sacrifice, Frank R. Fratellenico was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His courage in the face of overwhelming danger remains an enduring example of valor and devotion to his brothers in arms.

Listen to Episode 2862 and discover more about Army CPL Frank R. Fratellenico and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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Vietnam MoH recipient Marine COL Wesley L. Fox

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2861  of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Marine COL Wesley L. Fox and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a story that appeared on Wikipedia and the Virginia Tech  website that was titled: In Memoriam: Col. Wesley L. Fox, Medal of Honor recipient and honorary Virginia Tech alumnus. It was submitted by Shay Barnhart.

Colonel Wesley L. Fox, a U.S. Marine Corps legend, epitomized leadership, bravery, and selflessness during his storied career. Born in 1931, Fox enlisted in the Marines in 1950, quickly rising through the ranks due to his dedication and exceptional combat skills.

His heroism during the Vietnam War earned him the Medal of Honor. On February 22, 1969, then-Captain Fox led Company A, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, during Operation Dewey Canyon in Quang Tri Province. While under intense enemy fire, his company faced heavy casualties, including all key officers. Despite being wounded, Fox assumed command and organized his men for a counterattack.

He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, coordinating air support, and inspiring his troops to repel the enemy. His personal courage and steadfast leadership turned the tide of the battle, ensuring the survival of his men and a decisive victory. Refusing evacuation for his injuries, Fox led his company through the mission, embodying the Marine Corps ethos of never leaving a man behind.

Fox continued his service after Vietnam, ultimately retiring as a colonel in 1993 after 43 years of service. His life serves as a testament to the core values of honor, courage, and commitment. Beyond the battlefield, Fox was a mentor, passing his knowledge and leadership skills to the next generation of Marines. His legacy endures as a symbol of unwavering duty to his country and comrades.

Listen to Episode 2861 and discover more about Marine COL Wesley L. Fox and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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Recommended Reading

Buy Now

Episode 2860  of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature an interview with Eva Nguyen Whitfield and Jason Nulton, authors of the excellent book Uncommon Cargo.

In this episode, Jason and Eva will describe the events leading up to the creation of this impactful book. Eva was a three year old child when her family escaped the carnage of the communist takeover of her home country.

She recounts the actions taken by her father Chau Nguyen, a South Vietnamese Air Pilot, to get his family out of the war torn country.

In April 1975, Saigon was a dangerous place. American forces had left Vietnam two years prior, and the northern and southern governments were functioning as two independent countries following the Paris Peace Accords of 1973. But peace wouldn’t last. By the early months of 1975, northern communist forces had begun making their way violently southward to depose the American-backed South Vietnamese government and “unify” the country.

Knowing his family could face imprisonment or execution if they stayed, Chau Tan Nguyen, a 40-year old lieutenant colonel and C-130 pilot in the South Vietnamese Air Force, hatched a daring plan to save his family – his wife, Mai, their 3-year-old daughter Truc, 18-month-old son Trung, Mai’s parents, Hong and Dat, and Mai’s three younger brothers, Son, Dzung, and Tuan.

Uncommon Cargo is based on the true story of the Nguyen family’s harrowing race against time to escape South Vietnam and reach freedom. It would not be without heartache, tragedy, and despair, but it is also a story of love, strength of family, and raw determination.

Much has been written about the American war experience in Vietnam, but precious little chronicles the lives of the Vietnamese families who survived it. Uncommon Cargo is the incredible story of one that did.

Listen to Episode 2860 and discover more about the excellent book Uncommon Cargo from the authors.

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Medal of Honor recipient Army PFC James W. Fous

Congressional Medal of Honor

James Fous Avenue Ceremony

Episode 2859 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army PFC James W. Fous and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a story that appeared on Wikipedia and another on the U.S. Army Junior ROTC website titled: A Lasting Tribute to a Vietnam Hero.

Army PFC James W. Fous, a Medal of Honor recipient, served with distinction during the Vietnam War. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Fous was a thoughtful young man who believed in duty and sacrifice. In May 1968, at just 21 years old, he found himself in the thick of the war, serving with Company E, 4th Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division.

On May 14, 1968, in the Mekong Delta, Fous and his unit were ambushed by a Viet Cong force. Under intense fire, they took cover. A grenade was hurled into the middle of Fous’s squad, threatening the lives of his comrades. In a split second, Fous made a fateful decision—without hesitation, he threw himself on the grenade, absorbing the blast with his body.

His selfless act saved the lives of three fellow soldiers at the cost of his own. For his extraordinary bravery and sacrifice, Fous was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His citation noted his “complete disregard for his personal safety” and his willingness to give his life to protect others.

James W. Fous’s courage and devotion to his comrades remain a testament to the highest ideals of military service. His sacrifice exemplifies the heroism of so many who served in Vietnam, and his memory endures as an inspiration to all who value duty, honor, and country.

Listen to Episode 2859 and discover more about Army 1LT PFC James W. Fous and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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First Lieutenant Douglas B. Fournet Memorial dedication.

Medal of Honor recipient Army 1LT Douglas B. Fournet

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2858  of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army 1LT Douglas B. Fournet and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a story that appeared on Wikipedia and the City of lake Charles, Louisiana.

First Lieutenant Douglas B. Fournet was a man of quiet resolve, serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Born in Louisiana, he was raised with a deep sense of duty and a love for his country. His journey led him to Vietnam, where he became a platoon leader in Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).

On May 4, 1968, in the A Shau Valley, Fournet and his platoon were conducting a reconnaissance mission when they encountered a well-concealed enemy force. The terrain was unforgiving, and the enemy was relentless. As his platoon moved forward, they were suddenly pinned down by intense fire. Amidst the chaos, Fournet noticed an enemy claymore mine, rigged to explode, that would surely decimate his men.

Without hesitation, Fournet shouted a warning to his platoon and, with selfless bravery, lunged forward to disarm the mine. In that brief moment, he chose the lives of his men over his own. The mine detonated as he attempted to neutralize it, and Fournet was killed instantly. His actions, however, saved the lives of his comrades.

For his extraordinary heroism and ultimate sacrifice, 1LT Douglas B. Fournet was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His legacy lives on as a testament to the courage and selflessness that define the very best of America’s

Listen to Episode 2858 and discover more about Army 1LT Douglas B. Fournet and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Marine SGT Paul H. Foster.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2857  of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Marine SGT Paul H. Foster and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and was verified with several other sources.

Marine Sergeant Paul H. Foster was a Vietnam War hero and Medal of Honor recipient who served with exceptional bravery. Born on April 17, 1939, in San Mateo, California, Foster enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and quickly rose through the ranks due to his dedication and leadership. During the Vietnam War, he served as a radio operator with the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division.

On October 14, 1967, during Operation Medina in the Thừa Thiên Province, Foster’s unit was ambushed by a large enemy force. Despite being seriously wounded by enemy fire, Foster selflessly exposed himself to intense gunfire to direct artillery and air support. When an enemy grenade landed near his comrades, Foster, without hesitation, threw himself on the grenade, sacrificing his life to save his fellow Marines.

For his extraordinary courage and self-sacrifice, Paul H. Foster was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His actions embody the highest ideals of the Marine Corps, reflecting unparalleled valor and commitment to his fellow soldiers. His legacy endures as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve in the armed forces.

Listen to Episode 2857 and discover more about Marine SGT Paul H. Foster and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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Medal of Honor recipient Army Corporal Michael Fleming Folland.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2856  of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army Corporal Michael Fleming Folland and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a story that appeared on WTVR and was titled: Holmberg revisits local troublemaker who sacrificed his life and won Medal of Honor. The story was submitted by Mark Holmberg.

Army Corporal Michael Fleming Folland was from Richmond, Virginia.  As a boy, Michael Folland had been sent to a reformatory and his family feared for the hard-headed young man. In 1969, at just 20 years old, he found himself in the thick of the Vietnam War, serving as a radio operator with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 199th Light Infantry Brigade.

On July 3rd, Folland’s platoon was patrolling near Long Khanh Province when they were ambushed by a well-concealed enemy force. The jungle erupted with gunfire, and chaos ensued. Folland, recognizing the immediate danger to his comrades, sprang into action. As the battle raged, a grenade suddenly landed in the midst of his platoon. Without a second thought, Folland made a split-second decision that would save the lives of his fellow soldiers.

In an act of extraordinary heroism, he threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing the full force of the explosion with his body. The blast was devastating, but his selfless act shielded his comrades from certain death. Folland’s bravery and sacrifice were beyond measure, a testament to his character and devotion to his brothers in arms.

For his actions, Corporal Michael Folland was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States. His legacy endures as a symbol of courage, honor, and the ultimate sacrifice in the service of others. His name is etched in history, a reminder of the profound cost of freedom.

Listen to Episode 2856 and discover more about Army Corporal Michael Fleming Folland and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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Medal of Honor recipient Army LTG Robert F. Foley.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2855 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army LTG Robert F. Foley and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a story that appeared on the Medal of Honor Speak Out website and was titled: Robert F. Foley, Captain, U.S. Army Company A, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division

Army Lieutenant General Robert F. Foley is a living embodiment of courage and leadership. On November 5, 1966, as a young captain in Vietnam, he led his company, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, through one of the fiercest battles of the war. The dense jungle and treacherous terrain were not the only enemies; they faced relentless fire from well-entrenched Viet Cong forces.

Despite the intense enemy fire, Foley’s commitment to his soldiers never wavered. When his men were pinned down by a barrage of enemy machine gun fire, Foley moved from position to position, rallying his troops and providing clear, decisive orders. When he saw that one of his squads was trapped and taking heavy casualties, he personally led a charge through enemy fire to relieve them. Foley’s extraordinary bravery didn’t stop there. He single-handedly assaulted a Viet Cong machine gun position, eliminating the threat and allowing his men to advance.

For his gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, Robert F. Foley was awarded the Medal of Honor. His actions that day saved countless lives and exemplified the highest ideals of military service. Foley’s leadership continued throughout his distinguished career, where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant General, always remaining an inspiring figure to those who served under him. His legacy is one of selfless service, unwavering courage, and profound dedication to his country and fellow soldiers.

Listen to Episode 2855 and discover more about Army LTG Robert F. Foley and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT Charles Clinton Fleek

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2854 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army SGT Charles Clinton Fleek and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a story that appeared on the Kentucky History website and was titled: Marker #2604 Charles Clinton Fleek (1947-1969)/Medal of Honor Recipient. The story was submitted by Olivia Dale.

Charles Clinton “Chalky”[2] Fleek (August 28, 1947 – May 27, 1969) was a United States Army soldier and a posthumous recipient of the United States military’s highest decoration—the Medal of Honor—for his actions in the Vietnam War.

Fleek was drafted and entered Army service at Cincinnati, Ohio in 1968, and by May 27, 1969, was serving as a sergeant in Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.

Sergeant Fleek distinguished himself on May 27, 1969, in the Binh Duong Province, Vietnam, while serving as the squad leader for Company C during an ambush operation. The platoon was given an order to withhold fire, because their forces were much smaller than that of the North Vietnamese. The unit was deployed in ambush locations when a large combatant force approached their position. The North Vietnamese sensed the ambush and began to withdraw. In response, Fleek immediately started to fire. He then directed his men to pursue the enemy. Amid this, a North Vietnamese soldier threw a grenade into Fleek’s squad position. When he realized his men had not seen the grenade land amongst them, Fleek shouted a warning and threw himself onto the explosive. Although his position would have allowed him to seek cover, he chose to absorb the blast. His actions saved the lives of eight U.S. soldiers.

On August 17, 2018, a section of state highway Kentucky Route 20 in Petersburg, was named the Charles “Chalky” Fleek Memorial Highway.

Listen to Episode 2854 and discover more about Army SGT Charles Clinton Fleek and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.

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Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Michael John Fitzmaurice.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2853 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army Sp4 Michael John Fitzmaurice and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a podcast episode that appeared on the Tales of Honor Podcast and was titled: Michael J Fitzmaurice.

Army Specialist 4 (Sp4) Michael John Fitzmaurice is a distinguished recipient of the Medal of Honor, the United States’ highest military decoration, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. Born on March 9, 1950, in Jamestown, North Dakota, Fitzmaurice enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1969, during the Vietnam War. He served as a specialist with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division, also known as the “Wolfhounds.”

Fitzmaurice’s extraordinary bravery was demonstrated on March 23, 1971, during an intense enemy assault at Khe Sanh, in South Vietnam. When the North Vietnamese Army launched a massive attack on his unit’s position, Fitzmaurice responded with selflessness and determination. After an enemy grenade landed in his bunker, he threw himself onto it, shielding his comrades from the blast with his own body. Despite severe injuries, Fitzmaurice continued to fight, repelling the enemy forces and refusing medical evacuation until the situation was under control.

His actions, which epitomized courage and sacrifice, earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Richard Nixon on October 15, 1973. Fitzmaurice’s valor not only saved the lives of his fellow soldiers but also served as a powerful testament to the extraordinary heroism displayed by American servicemen in the face of overwhelming danger. He remains an enduring symbol of bravery and dedication, inspiring generations of military personnel and civilians alike.

Listen to Episode 2853 and discover more about Army Sp4 Michael John Fitzmaurice and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.