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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Marine LCpl Thomas P. Noonan Jr.
Medal of Honor
Episode 2956 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Marine LCpl Thomas P. Noonan Jr. Information featured in this episode comes from the Military Hall of Honor website.
Marine Lance Corporal Thomas P. Noonan Jr. was no stranger to courage, but on February 5, 1969, during the Vietnam War, he demonstrated extraordinary valor that would etch his name into history. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Noonan had a strong sense of duty, a trait that carried him into the ranks of the United States Marine Corps.
Noonan’s unit, part of Company G, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, was engaged in a fierce firefight near Vandegrift Combat Base in Quảng Trị Province. The Marines were tasked with moving to a new location. They were hit with enemy fire atop an unforgiving ridge. The terrain was steep, and the enemy was relentless, raining down bullets and grenades.
Amid the chaos, Noonan volunteered to lead the rescue despite the near-certain danger. Climbing the treacherous slope under a hail of enemy fire, he pressed forward with singular determination. Reaching the wounded Marines, Noonan worked tirelessly, administering aid and organizing their evacuation.
As he carried one of his comrades to safety, an enemy grenade exploded nearby, mortally wounding him. Despite his injuries, Noonan’s efforts saved lives and inspired his fellow Marines to complete the mission. For his selflessness and heroism, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
Thomas P. Noonan Jr. embodied the Marine Corps ethos of honor, courage, and commitment. His sacrifice reminds us of the profound price of freedom and the enduring legacy of those who serve with unwavering valor. Today, his name is enshrined among heroes, a testament to a life of extraordinary bravery.
Listen to Episode 2956 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Marine LCpl Thomas P. Noonan Jr.
