|
David Long
Well said, Michael!
I had lunch with one of the corpsmen from Mike Company 3/3/3 (a Medal of Honor Recipient) last week when we were both volunteering at the Heart of America Patriot Foundation Golf Fundraiser. We comiserated on our experiences, as were both in the same place at the same time when he threw himself on a grenade to save 4 other Marines. Fortunately for Doc, the grenade didn't explode and he was able to come home mostly unscathed, as did I. Here is his citation:
BALLARD, DONALD E.
Rank: Hospital Corpsman Second Class
Organization: U.S. Navy
Company: Company M, 3d Battalion
Division: 3rd Marines, 3d Marine Division
Born: 5 December 1945, Kansas City, Mo.
Departed: No
Entered Service At: Kansas City, Mo.
G.O. Number:
Date of Issue: 05/14/1970
Accredited To: Kansas City, MO
Place / Date: Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, 16 May 1968
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty while serving as a HC2c. with Company M, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces. During the afternoon hours, Company M was moving to join the remainder of the 3d Battalion in Quang Tri Province. After treating and evacuating 2 heat casualties, HC2c. Ballard was returning to his platoon from the evacuation landing zone when the company was ambushed by a North Vietnamese Army unit employing automatic weapons and mortars, and sustained numerous casualties. Observing a wounded marine, HC2c. Ballard unhesitatingly moved across the fire swept terrain to the injured man and swiftly rendered medical assistance to his comrade. HC2c. Ballard then directed 4 marines to carry the casualty to a position of relative safety. As the 4 men prepared to move the wounded marine, an enemy soldier suddenly left his concealed position and, after hurling a hand grenade which landed near the casualty, commenced firing upon the small group of men. Instantly shouting a warning to the marines, HC2c. Ballard fearlessly threw himself upon the lethal explosive device to protect his comrades from the deadly blast. When the grenade failed to detonate, he calmly arose from his dangerous position and resolutely continued his determined efforts in treating other marine casualties. HC2c. Ballard's heroic actions and selfless concern for the welfare of his companions served to inspire all who observed him and prevented possible injury or death to his fellow marines. His courage, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
|
