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Rank and
organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 3d
Engineer Combat Battalion, 24th Infantry Division. Place and
date: Near Taejon, Korea, 20 July 1950. Entered service
at: Waterbury, Conn. Birth: Bridgton, Maine. G.O.
No.: 62, 2 August 1951.
Citation:
Sgt. Libby distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action.
While breaking through an enemy encirclement, the vehicle in
which he was riding approached an enemy roadblock and
encountered devastating fire which disabled the truck, killing
or wounding all the passengers except Sgt. Libby. Taking cover
in a ditch Sgt. Libby engaged the enemy and despite the heavy
fire crossed the road twice to administer aid to his wounded
comrades. He then hailed a passing M-5 artillery tractor and
helped the wounded aboard. The enemy directed intense small-arms
fire at the driver, and Sgt. Libby, realizing that no one else
could operate the vehicle, placed himself between the driver and
the enemy thereby shielding him while he returned the fire.
During this action he received several wounds in the arms and
body. Continuing through the town the tractor made frequent
stops and Sgt. Libby helped more wounded aboard. Refusing first
aid, he continued to shield the driver and return the fire of
the enemy when another roadblock was encountered. Sgt. Libby
received additional wounds but held his position until he lost
consciousness. Sgt. Libby's sustained, heroic actions enabled
his comrades to reach friendly lines. His dauntless courage and
gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself
and uphold the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.
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The
President of the United States