Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

or
  • Filter Recipient Database here
    • Service Branch
    • Conflict / Era
    • Additional Filters
      -  
    or

Vietnam War - U.S. Army

William David Port

Details
  • Rank: Sergeant (rank at time of action: Private First Class)
  • Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company C, 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry,
    1st Air Cavalry Division
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: January 12, 1968
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Que Son Valley, Heip Duc Province, Republic of Vietnam
Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Port distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman with Company C, which was conducting combat operations against an enemy force in the Que Son Valley. As Sgt. Port's platoon was moving to cut off a reported movement of enemy soldiers, the platoon came under heavy fire from an entrenched enemy force. The platoon was forced to withdraw due to the intensity and ferocity of the fire. Although wounded in the hand as the withdrawal began, Sgt. Port, with complete disregard for his safety, ran through the heavy fire to assist a wounded comrade back to the safety of the platoon perimeter. As the enemy forces assaulted in the perimeter, Sgt. Port and three comrades were in position behind an embankment when an enemy grenade landed in their midst. Sgt. Port, realizing the danger to his fellow soldiers, shouted the warning, "Grenade," and unhesitatingly hurled himself towards the grenade to shield his comrades from the explosion. Through his exemplary courage and devotion he saved the lives of his fellow soldiers and gave the members of his platoon the inspiration needed to hold their position. Sgt. Port's selfless concern for his comrades, at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty, 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 William D. Port
Medal of Honor Recipient William D. Port
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Harrisburg, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: August 6, 1970

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

  • Born: October 31, 1941, Petersburg, Huntingdon County, PA, United States
  • Died: November 27, 1968, Republic of Vietnam
  • Buried: Arlington National Cemetery (MH) (7-8120-B), remains recovered 1985, Arlington, VA, United States
 

Questions? For More Information Contact Us!