Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Laszlo Rabel.
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.
