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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT John Noble Holcomb.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2878 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army SGT John Noble Holcomb and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and a story about Holcomb in the Corvallis Gazette-Times that was submitted by Hans Boyle.
Army Sergeant John Noble Holcomb was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery during the Vietnam War. Born on June 11, 1946, in Baker City, Oregon, Holcomb joined the U.S. Army in 1967 and served as a squad leader in Company D, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).
On December 3, 1968, during a fierce battle in Binh Dinh Province, Holcomb and his platoon were ambushed by an overwhelming North Vietnamese force. Despite being severely outnumbered, Holcomb displayed remarkable courage. When his squad leader was killed, Holcomb took command and organized a defense. Even after being wounded by a rocket-propelled grenade, he continued to lead his men, rallying them to fight against the enemy.
Holcomb personally charged an enemy machine gun position, taking out the gunner and allowing his platoon to regroup. He then exposed himself to enemy fire multiple times to assist wounded soldiers. Although wounded again, he refused medical treatment, remaining on the front lines to protect his comrades.
In the midst of battle, Holcomb directed artillery fire and coordinated air support, helping to break the enemy attack. His leadership and heroism saved the lives of many soldiers that day.
For his selflessness, valor, and devotion to duty, Sergeant Holcomb was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on October 15, 1969. His legacy lives on as a symbol of the bravery and sacrifice of American soldiers in Vietnam.
Listen to Episode 2878 and discover more about Army SGT John Noble Holcomb and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.
