Post by Anonymous Vet on Dec 1, 2003 9:13:56 GMT -5
Widow gets MOH at Pentagon
Ivy NCO inspires platoon
WASHINGTON, (USARV)
The Medal of Honor has been awarded posthumously to a 4th Infantry Division sergeant who, despite fatal wounds from enemy rifle and rocket fire, helped his platoon beat off a savage attack in Vietnam.
Platoon Sgt. Elmelindo R. Smith distinguished himself during combat operations on February 16, 1967 with the 1st platoon,Co. C, 2nd Bn., 8th Inf., 4th Infantry Division
The citation accompanying the award gave this description of the action:
"During a reconnaissance patrol his platoon was suddenly engaged by intense machine gun fire hemming in the platoon on three sides. A defensive perimeter was hastily establishid, but the enemy added mortar and rocket fire to the deadly fusillade and assaulted the position from several directions.
Disregarded own safety
"With complete disregard for his own safety, Sgt. Smith moved through the deadly fire along the defensive line, positioning soldiers, distributing ammunition and encouragmg his men to repel the enemy attack.
"Struck to the ground by enemy fire which caused a severe shoulder wound, he regained his feet, killed the enemy soldier and continued to move about the perimeter. He was again wounded in the shoulder and stomach but continued moving on his knees to assist in the defense.
Enemy massing
“Noting the enemy massing at a weakened point on the perimeter", he crawled into the open and poured deadly fire into the enemy ranks. As he crawled on, he was struck by a rocket. Moments later, he regained consciousness, and drawing on his fast dwindling strength, continued to crawl from man to man.
"When he could move no farther, he chose to remain in the open where he could alert the, perimeter to the approaching enemy.
"Sgt. Smith perished, never relenting in his determined effort against the enemy. The valorous acts and heroic leadership of this outstanding soldier inspired those remaining members of his platoon to beat back the enemy assaults."
Mrs. Jane N. Smith received the nation's highest award for valor on behalf of her husband during a ceremony at the Pentagon. Secretary of the Army Stanley R. Resor made the presentation.
Smith entered the Army at Honolulu, Hawaii on June 3, 1953 and served with the 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division during the Korean con0flict.
He served two tours in Korea during his Army career and also saw duty in Okinawa, Italy, Hawaii and Ft. Lewis, Wash.
The Army Reporter (October 19, 1968)
Ivy NCO inspires platoon
WASHINGTON, (USARV)
The Medal of Honor has been awarded posthumously to a 4th Infantry Division sergeant who, despite fatal wounds from enemy rifle and rocket fire, helped his platoon beat off a savage attack in Vietnam.
Platoon Sgt. Elmelindo R. Smith distinguished himself during combat operations on February 16, 1967 with the 1st platoon,Co. C, 2nd Bn., 8th Inf., 4th Infantry Division
The citation accompanying the award gave this description of the action:
"During a reconnaissance patrol his platoon was suddenly engaged by intense machine gun fire hemming in the platoon on three sides. A defensive perimeter was hastily establishid, but the enemy added mortar and rocket fire to the deadly fusillade and assaulted the position from several directions.
Disregarded own safety
"With complete disregard for his own safety, Sgt. Smith moved through the deadly fire along the defensive line, positioning soldiers, distributing ammunition and encouragmg his men to repel the enemy attack.
"Struck to the ground by enemy fire which caused a severe shoulder wound, he regained his feet, killed the enemy soldier and continued to move about the perimeter. He was again wounded in the shoulder and stomach but continued moving on his knees to assist in the defense.
Enemy massing
“Noting the enemy massing at a weakened point on the perimeter", he crawled into the open and poured deadly fire into the enemy ranks. As he crawled on, he was struck by a rocket. Moments later, he regained consciousness, and drawing on his fast dwindling strength, continued to crawl from man to man.
"When he could move no farther, he chose to remain in the open where he could alert the, perimeter to the approaching enemy.
"Sgt. Smith perished, never relenting in his determined effort against the enemy. The valorous acts and heroic leadership of this outstanding soldier inspired those remaining members of his platoon to beat back the enemy assaults."
Mrs. Jane N. Smith received the nation's highest award for valor on behalf of her husband during a ceremony at the Pentagon. Secretary of the Army Stanley R. Resor made the presentation.
Smith entered the Army at Honolulu, Hawaii on June 3, 1953 and served with the 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division during the Korean con0flict.
He served two tours in Korea during his Army career and also saw duty in Okinawa, Italy, Hawaii and Ft. Lewis, Wash.
The Army Reporter (October 19, 1968)