Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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Vietnam War - U.S. Army

Larry Stanley Pierce

Details
  • Rank: Sergeant
  • Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
  • Unit/Command:
    Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry,
    173d Airborne Brigade
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: September 20, 1965
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: near Ben Cat, Republic of Vietnam
Citation
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Pierce was serving as squad leader in a reconnaissance platoon when his patrol was ambushed by hostile forces. Through his inspiring leadership and personal courage, the squad succeeded in eliminating an enemy machine gun and routing the opposing force. While pursuing the fleeing enemy, the squad came upon a dirt road and, as the main body of his men entered the road, Sgt. Pierce discovered an antipersonnel mine emplaced in the road bed. Realizing that the mine could destroy the majority of his squad, Sgt. Pierce saved the lives of his men at the sacrifice of his life by throwing himself directly onto the mine as it exploded. Through his indomitable courage, complete disregard for his safety, and profound concern for his fellow soldiers, he averted loss of life and injury to the members of his squad. Sgt. Pierce's extraordinary heroism, at the cost of his life, are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
Medal of Honor Recipient Larry S. Pierce
Medal of Honor Recipient Larry S. Pierce
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Fresno, Fresno County, California
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: February 24, 1966
    The White House, presented by Pres. Lyndon B. Johnson to his family
  • Born: July 6, 1941, Wewoka, Seminole County, OK, United States
  • Died: September 20, 1965, Republic of Vietnam
  • Buried: Wasco Cemetery, Wasco, CA, United States
 

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