Congressional Medal of Honor Society

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Vietnam War - U.S. Army

Thomas Joseph McMahon

Details
  • Rank: Specialist Fourth Class
  • Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company A, 2d Battalion, 1st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade,
    Americal Division
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: March 19, 1969
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam
Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. McMahon distinguished himself while serving as medical aidman with Company A. When the lead elements of his company came under heavy fire from well-fortified enemy positions, three soldiers fell seriously wounded. Sp4c. McMahon, with complete disregard for his safety, left his covered position and ran through intense enemy fire to the side of one of the wounded, administered first aid, and then carried him to safety. He returned through the hail of fire to the side of a second wounded man. Although painfully wounded by an exploding mortar round while returning the wounded man to a secure position, Sp4c. McMahon refused medical attention and heroically ran back through the heavy enemy fire toward his remaining wounded comrade. He fell mortally wounded before he could rescue the last man. Sp4c. McMahon's undaunted concern for the welfare of his comrades at the cost of his life are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Medal of Honor Recipient Thomas J. McMahon
Medal of Honor Recipient Thomas J. McMahon
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Portland, Cumberland County, Maine
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: August 6, 1970

    The White House, presented by Pres. Richard M. Nixon to his family

  • Born: June 24, 1948, Washington, DC, United States
  • Died: March 19, 1969, Republic of Vietnam
  • Buried: Mount Hope Cemetery (MH) (N-146), Lewiston, ME, United States
 

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