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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army COL Robert L. Howard.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2881 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Army COL Robert L. Howard and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from a story that appeared on the MACV-SOG website and was titled: Charles L. Howard.
Colonel Robert L. Howard, one of the most highly decorated soldiers in U.S. history, exemplified bravery during the Vietnam War. Born in Alabama in 1939, Howard enlisted in the Army at 17 and quickly rose through the ranks. By the time he served in Vietnam, Howard had become a member of the elite Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG), a highly classified special operations unit.
On December 30, 1968, during a mission deep in enemy territory, Howard’s team came under heavy fire from North Vietnamese forces. Despite being severely wounded by an exploding mine, which left him temporarily blinded, Howard fought back. His commanding officer had been killed, and the enemy was closing in, but Howard took charge of the situation. Under intense fire, he rallied his men, directing their defense while simultaneously attempting to rescue wounded comrades.
At great personal risk, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire, using his own body to shield fellow soldiers. In an incredible display of heroism, he carried out a wounded teammate and held off the enemy until reinforcements arrived. For his extraordinary courage that day, Howard was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Nixon in 1971.
After Vietnam, Howard continued his distinguished military career, retiring as a Colonel in 1992. He passed away in 2009, but his legacy as a fearless warrior and selfless leader endures, forever honored by the nation he served so valiantly.
Listen to Episode 2881 and discover more about Army COL Robert L. Howard. and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.
