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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT Donald Russell Long.
Congressional Medal of Honor
Episode 2930 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT Donald Russell Long.. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.
In the dense jungles of Vietnam, under the suffocating canopy of war, Army Sergeant Donald Russell Long stood as a pillar of courage. It was June 30, 1966, near the village of Minh Thanh. Long’s platoon, part of the 1st Infantry Division, was ambushed by a force of North Vietnamese soldiers. Gunfire ripped through the air, chaos enveloping the troops as they scrambled for cover.
Amid the roar of battle, Long’s sharp eyes caught movement—a grenade arcing toward the heart of his unit. In that instant, he made a choice that would define not only his life but the lives of those around him. With no hesitation, he flung himself onto the grenade, his body absorbing the full force of the explosion.
The blast tore through him, leaving Long gravely wounded. But his act of selflessness saved the lives of his comrades, allowing them to regroup and fight on. Despite his injuries, Long insisted on ensuring the safety of his fellow soldiers, refusing evacuation until others were secure.
Later awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously, Long’s heroism became a testament to the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. Those who knew him remembered his quiet strength, his steadfast leadership, and the unwavering bond he shared with his men.
Today, his name is etched in the annals of valor, a reminder of the price of freedom and the depth of courage found in the hearts of ordinary men who rise to extraordinary heights. SGT Donald Russell Long’s story lives on, inspiring generations to honor duty above all else.
Listen to Episode 2930 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army SGT Donald Russell Long.
Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.
