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Maj. Charles Kettles poses in front of a 121st Aviation Company, UH-1H helicopter, during his second tour of duty in Vietnam in 1969.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2916 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army LTC Charles Kettles. Information featured in this episode comes from the US Army website.
On May 15, 1967, deep in the Song Tra Cau Valley in Vietnam, Army Lieutenant Colonel Charles Kettles exemplified unparalleled bravery. Commanding a UH-1D Huey helicopter, Kettles was tasked with leading a mission to extract soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division who were pinned down by a relentless North Vietnamese ambush.
As machine gun fire and mortars rained down, Kettles made multiple trips into the inferno, ferrying dozens of soldiers to safety. Despite intense enemy fire, he displayed unwavering composure, ensuring his crew and passengers remained as protected as possible. Each time, he pushed the limits of his aircraft, flying through barrages of enemy fire with precision.
After what seemed like the final extraction, Kettles learned that eight soldiers had been left behind. Without hesitation, he volunteered to go back. Alone and exposed, he piloted his damaged helicopter through the deadly skies. His Huey was struck by shrapnel, and the cockpit filled with smoke, but Kettles refused to abandon his mission.
With bullets piercing the air, Kettles landed amidst chaos and waited as the stranded soldiers scrambled aboard. As they lifted off, the Huey trembled under the weight and damage. Yet, Kettles’ masterful flying carried them all to safety.
For his extraordinary heroism, Charles Kettles was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2016, nearly five decades later. His selfless actions saved 40 soldiers and earned him a place in history as a symbol of courage and sacrifice. Kettles’ legacy endures as a testament to the valor of those who risk everything for others.
Listen to Episode 2916 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army LTC Charles Kettles.
