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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp5 John J. Kedenburg.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2907 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp5 John J. Kedenburg. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.
Kedenburg joined the Army from his birthplace of Brooklyn, New York in 1965,[1] and by June 13, 1968, was serving as a Specialist Five in the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. During a fierce firefight on that day, in the Republic of Vietnam/Laos, Kedenburg voluntarily gave the last spot on an extraction helicopter to a South Vietnamese soldier. Ordering the full helicopter to leave, he then continued to engage the enemy alone until being overrun. A road at Fort Bragg, NC is named in his honor.
Army Specialist 5 John J. Kedenburg, a member of the 5th Special Forces Group during the Vietnam War, exemplified selfless heroism on June 14, 1968. Leading a reconnaissance mission deep into enemy territory, Kedenburg and his South Vietnamese comrades were ambushed by a superior North Vietnamese force. As they faced overwhelming odds, Kedenburg quickly took command, organizing their defense and directing air support to counter the enemy.
When rescue helicopters arrived, Kedenburg insisted his men board first. As he prepared to board the final helicopter, he noticed that one South Vietnamese soldier remained on the ground. Without hesitation, Kedenburg sacrificed his seat for the man and stayed behind, fighting valiantly until he was killed by enemy fire. For his extraordinary courage and ultimate sacrifice, Kedenburg was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, leaving a legacy of valor and loyalty to his brothers-in-arms.
Listen to Episode 2907 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp5 John J. Kedenburg.
