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Vietnam MoH recipient Army LTC Harold A. Fritz.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2863 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army LTC Harold A. Fritz and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from stories that appeared on Wikipedia and the Medal of Honor Speak Out – Save Lives website.
Lieutenant Colonel Harold A. Fritz is a living embodiment of courage under fire. On January 11, 1969, while serving as a platoon leader in Vietnam, then First Lieutenant Fritz was leading a convoy of armored personnel carriers when they were ambushed by a force of enemy soldiers that far outnumbered his men.
The enemy initiated the attack with a barrage of rocket-propelled grenades and automatic weapons fire, severely wounding Fritz and many of his comrades. Despite his injuries, Fritz immediately leapt into action. Realizing that the enemy was attempting to overrun their position, he disregarded his own safety, moving through heavy gunfire to rally his troops.
Fritz organized his men into a defensive perimeter, personally directing their efforts and returning fire with precision. At one point, he left the safety of cover to man a machine gun on a disabled vehicle, providing critical support to his men. His leadership and calm in the chaos inspired his troops to stand their ground.
As the battle raged, Fritz coordinated a successful counterattack, leading his men in a charge that drove the enemy back and secured the safety of the convoy. His actions saved countless lives and prevented a catastrophic defeat.
For his extraordinary heroism, Fritz was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1971, becoming a symbol of selfless service and valor. His legacy remains a testament to the power of leadership, bravery, and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
Listen to Episode 2863 and discover more about Army LTC Harold A. Fritz and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.
