HONORING MEMORIAL DAY

In honor of one of my friends, killed in VietNam - www.thewall-usa.com/mohrec.asp?recid=87&servid=34512

RIP Edgar

Just wanted to make sure all read about your friend JF.

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSjOmaTNf1TtrCmVMmFw7KMdTgy99OLJQEDt1IyFDRL_QXppizB

Medal of Honor Citation
EDGAR LEE MC WETHY
Specialist Fifth Class, U.S. Army
Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Place and Date: Binh Dinh province, Republic of Vietnam, 21 June 1967.
Entered Service at: Denver, Colo.
Born :22 November 1944, Leadville, Colo.

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Serving as a medical aidman with Company B, Sp5c. McWethy accompanied his platoon to the site of a downed helicopter. Shortly after the platoon established a defensive perimeter around the aircraft, a large enemy force attacked the position from 3 sides with a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire and grenades. The platoon leader and his radio operator were wounded almost immediately, and Sp5c. McWethy rushed across the fire-swept area to their assistance. Although he could not help the mortally wounded radio operator, Sp5c. McWethy's timely first aid enabled the platoon leader to retain command during this critical period. Hearing a call for aid, Sp5c. McWethy started across the open toward the injured men, but was wounded in the head and knocked to the ground. He regained his feet and continued on but was hit again, this time in the leg. Struggling onward despite his wounds, he gained the side of his comrades and treated their injuries. Observing another fallen rifleman Lying in an exposed position raked by enemy fire, Sp5c. McWethy moved toward him without hesitation. Although the enemy fire wounded him a third time, Sp5c. McWethy reached his fallen companion. Though weakened and in extreme pain, Sp5c. McWethy gave the wounded man artificial respiration but suffered a fourth and fatal wound. Through his indomitable courage, complete disregard for his safety, and demonstrated concern for his fellow soldiers, Sp5c. McWethy inspired the members of his platoon and contributed in great measure to their successful defense of the position and the ultimate rout of the enemy force. Sp5c. McWethy's profound sense of duty, bravery, and his willingness to accept extraordinary risks in order to help the men of his unit are characteristic of the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.

A True American Hero

He was a great skiing buddy too - took me under his wing when I was first trying to learn to use the T-bar lift at Cooper. Without his help I would probably have become discouraged and never learned to enjoy and love skiing.

Did not now Egar, but can't help wonder if he ever passed through Cam Rhan Bay. Many on the front did for a brief respite from the action. If so we may have passed one another as I was in Cam Rhan Bay from 1965-67.

I do not know the answer to that, but it is certainly possible.

To all the Vietnam Veterans WELCOME HOME,

:thumbsup:

Thanks, Becky. He is my friend's stepson.

My step-grandson is ready to be deployed again. Not sure of the date, however.

WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Panama, Granada, Bosnia, Middle East - I'm sure I left out many small operations - We are grateful to all who served and are serving.

Incredible story.
RIP Edgar, you have my admiration.

And to all those who continue to defend this country! Thanks!