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Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Donald R. Johnston.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2902 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Donald R. Johnston. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.
Sp4 Johnston distinguished himself while serving as a mortarman with Company D, at a fire support base in Tay Ninh Province. Sp4 Johnston’s company was in defensive positions when it came under a devastating rocket and mortar attack. Under cover of the bombardment, enemy sappers broke through the defensive perimeter and began hurling explosive charges into the main defensive bunkers. Sp4 Johnston and 6 of his comrades had moved from their exposed positions to 1 of the bunkers to continue their fight against the enemy attackers.
As they were firing from the bunker, an enemy soldier threw 3 explosive charges into their position. Sensing the danger to his comrades, Sp4 Johnston, with complete disregard for his safety, hurled himself onto the explosive charges, smothering the detonations with his body and shielding his fellow soldiers from the blast. His heroic action saved the lives of 6 of his comrades. Sp4 Johnston’s concern for his fellow men at the cost of his life were in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Johnston’s heroic sacrifice saved the lives of the men around him, though he was mortally wounded in the act. His selfless actions, courage, and commitment to his fellow soldiers were recognized posthumously when he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration for valor in the United States. His bravery exemplified the dedication and sacrifices of medics and soldiers throughout the Vietnam War, cementing his legacy as a hero who gave his life so others might live.
Specialist Donald R. Johnston’s story continues to inspire service members and civilians alike, a testament to the extraordinary courage found in ordinary people facing unimaginable dangers.
Listen to Episode 2902 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Donald R. Johnston.
