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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.
