A Note from The Virtual Wall
Charlie 1/5 Marines lost two men in the early hours of 11 June 1969: Pfc Russell D. Buckner and
Pfc James M. Wandro
of San Mateo, California (Silver Star).
Mr. Felton, whose addendum appears above, received the Navy Cross for his actions during the engagement. The Citation for his award outlines the circumstances of Pfc Buckner's death:
The President of the United States
takes pride in presenting the
NAVY CROSS
to
SAMUEL L. FELTON, JR.
Private First Class
United States Marine Corps
for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
For extraordinary heroism while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Early on the morning of 11 June 1969, Company C was established in a battalion night defensive perimeter two miles west of An Hoa Combat Base when its sector came under a heavy volume of rocket, mortar, recoilless rifle, and automatic-weapons fire followed by a determined assault by an estimated 100 North Vietnamese Army soldiers. When communications with a three-man listening post seventy-five meters forward of the perimeter were lost, Private First Class Felton established voice contact and learned that all three Marines were wounded and unable to return to the perimeter unassisted. With resolute determination, he left his fighting hole and although wounded by enemy fire, continued across the open terrain until he reached the beleaguered Marines. After administering first aid and ensuring that no equipment or ordnance was left behind, he provided covering fire as he directed the two least seriously wounded men across the hazardous area to the company lines. Despite his weakened condition from loss of blood, Private First Class Felton began to carry the most seriously injured Marine through the knee-deep mud and water of the rice paddy. Suddenly two hostile soldiers jumped in front of him, blocking his chance to return to friendly lines. Reacting instantly, he fired his M-16 rifle with one hand while supporting the wounded Marine with his injured arm, killing both of the enemy, and fearlessly continued his herculean efforts until he delivered his wounded comrade to the battalion aid station. He then returned to the perimeter and continued fighting the attacking force until the enemy was repulsed. His heroic actions and bold fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several fellow Marines. By his courage, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Private First Class Felton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
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