Honoring the Passing of a Hero
At a time when the nation has been focused on health care legislation, winter storms, and the post office hostage issue, our nation has lost a hero and will probably never realize it.
Retired Army Col. Robert L. Howard, a Medal of Honor winner and one of America’s most decorated soldiers, died Wednesday in Waco after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Howard was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Vietnam. His citation reads:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. 1st Lt. Howard (then Sfc .), distinguished himself while serving as platoon sergeant of an American-Vietnamese platoon which was on a mission to rescue a missing American soldier in enemy controlled territory in the Republic of Vietnam. The platoon had left its helicopter landing zone and was moving out on its mission when it was attacked by an estimated 2-company force. During the initial engagement, 1st Lt. Howard was wounded and his weapon destroyed by a grenade explosion. 1st Lt. Howard saw his platoon leader had been wounded seriously and was exposed to fire. Although unable to walk, and weaponless, 1st Lt. Howard unhesitatingly crawled through a hail of fire to retrieve his wounded leader. As 1st Lt. Howard was administering first aid and removing the officer’s equipment, an enemy bullet struck 1 of the ammunition pouches on the lieutenant’s belt, detonating several magazines of ammunition. 1st Lt. Howard momentarily sought cover and then realizing that he must rejoin the platoon, which had been disorganized by the enemy attack, he again began dragging the seriously wounded officer toward the platoon area. Through his outstanding example of indomitable courage and bravery, 1st Lt. Howard was able to rally the platoon into an organized defense force. With complete disregard for his safety, 1st Lt. Howard crawled from position to position, administering first aid to the wounded, giving encouragement to the defenders and directing their fire on the encircling enemy. For 3 1/2 hours 1st Lt. Howard’s small force and supporting aircraft successfully repulsed enemy attacks and finally were in sufficient control to permit the landing of rescue helicopters. 1st Lt. Howard personally supervised the loading of his men and did not leave the bullet-swept landing zone until all were aboard safely. 1st Lt. Howard’s gallantry in action, his complete devotion to the welfare of his men at the risk of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Howard has the distinction of being the only Soldier in our nation’s history to be nominated for the Medal of Honor for three separate events. The other two nominations were downgraded to a Silver Star and Distinguished Service Cross, the nation’s second and third highest awards for valor. He served FIVE tours in Vietnam.
Texas Governor Rick Perry today made the following statement regarding the passing of Colonel Robert L. Howard, one of America’s most decorated soldiers:
“As one of America’s most decorated veterans, Colonel Howard inspired everyone he met to consider their own commitment to our nation’s essential values, and was the bravest soldier I ever met. His unshakable commitment to freedom, displayed in countless episodes of battlefield gallantry, lives on in the actions of our military men and women who continue to serve in hostile conditions overseas. On behalf of all Texans, Anita and I extend our condolences and prayers to his family in their time of grieving.”
If you’re a reader, check out John Plaster’s book that includes Howard’s story, SOG: The Secret Wars of America’s Commandos in Vietnam.
Update: NBC News actually mentioned his passing and gave a little more information.
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
h/t to This Ain’t Hell for the video link.
