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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Navy CPT Thomas G. Kelley.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2911 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Navy CPT Thomas G. Kelley. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and The Medal of honor – Speak Out and Save Lives Organization.
In the dense jungles of Vietnam, Navy Captain Thomas G. Kelley led his men with unwavering bravery. On June 15, 1969, Kelley, then a lieutenant, was tasked with a critical mission. He commanded eight river assault boats on the Ong Muong Canal in Kien Hoa Province, a perilous area frequently ambushed by enemy forces. His mission was to extract a company of Army infantry who were under heavy enemy fire and pinned down in the open.
As Kelley’s boats approached the extraction point, they came under intense enemy attack from all sides. Despite the withering fire, Kelley maintained his composure, positioning the boats to shield the soldiers onshore. He realized that without swift action, his men and the troops they were rescuing would not survive.
Standing exposed on the boat’s bow, Kelley took full command of the situation, guiding each boat through precise maneuvers. Amid the chaos, a rocket-propelled grenade exploded near him, sending shrapnel into his head and shoulders. Severely wounded, Kelley’s vision was impaired, and blood covered his face, yet he refused to retreat. Ignoring his own safety, he continued directing his boats until every soldier was safely aboard.
Only after ensuring the mission’s success did Kelley allow himself to receive medical attention. His actions saved countless lives that day, demonstrating an exceptional level of bravery and selflessness. For his heroic efforts, Kelley was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration for valor.
Kelley’s story didn’t end with his heroics on the riverbanks of Vietnam. After recovering, he continued to serve in various roles, advocating tirelessly for veterans and becoming an inspiration for generations. Despite the severe injuries that plagued him for years, Kelley showed a steadfast commitment to service. His story serves as a powerful testament to the courage and dedication of those who put their lives on the line for others.
Today, Captain Thomas G. Kelley is remembered not only for his Medal of Honor but for his lasting legacy of leadership and sacrifice. His bravery under fire continues to stand as a symbol of the highest ideals of military service, inspiring others to live with courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
Listen to Episode 2911 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Navy CPT Thomas G. Kelley.
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