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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Edward N. Kaneshiro.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2903 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Edward N. Kaneshiro. Information featured in this episode comes from a story titled: Medal of Honor Monday: Army Staff Sgt. Edward Kaneshiro that appeared on the DoD website. The story was submitted by Katie Lange.
Army Staff Sergeant Edward N. Kaneshiro, a Vietnam War hero, was born in Hawaii, the son of Japanese immigrants. His courage in battle, later recognized with the Medal of Honor, became a symbol of valor and duty. In December 1966, while on patrol with his unit near Phu Huu 2, Vietnam, Kaneshiro’s platoon was ambushed by North Vietnamese forces in a well-coordinated attack. Outnumbered and under heavy fire, his platoon faced grave danger.
Recognizing the imminent threat to his comrades, Kaneshiro took swift and decisive action. Armed with a rifle and hand grenades, he crawled forward, undeterred by the bullets flying around him. He engaged the enemy in close combat, moving strategically from trench to trench, skillfully using grenades to neutralize enemy soldiers hiding within bunkers. His assault disrupted the ambush, allowing his platoon to regroup and ultimately withdraw from the killing zone without further casualties. His fearless actions saved the lives of his fellow soldiers and turned the tide of the encounter.
Kaneshiro’s bravery earned him posthumous recognition, receiving the Medal of Honor in 2022 for his extraordinary heroism and selflessness. Though he died in action months later in 1967, his legacy endures as a testament to the valor and sacrifice of soldiers who stand ready to protect their comrades at all costs. Today, Kaneshiro’s story of courage and loyalty serves as an inspiration to generations who follow in his footsteps.
Listen to Episode 2903 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Edward N. Kaneshiro.
