Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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Vietnam War - U.S. Army

Charles Clinton Fleek

Details
  • Rank: Sergeant
  • Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry,
    25th Infantry Division
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: May 27, 1967
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Binh Duong 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. Sgt. Fleek distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader in Company C, during an ambush operation. Sgt. Fleek's unit was deployed in ambush locations when a large enemy force approached the position. Suddenly, the leading enemy element, sensing the ambush, halted and started to withdraw. Reacting instantly, Sgt. Fleek opened fire and directed the effective fire of his men upon the numerically superior enemy force. During the fierce battle that followed, an enemy soldier threw a grenade into the squad position. Realizing that his men had not seen the grenade, Sgt. Fleek, although in a position to seek cover, shouted a warning to his comrades and threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing its blast. His gallant action undoubtedly saved the lives or prevented the injury of at least eight of his fellow soldiers. Sgt. Fleek's gallantry and willing self-sacrifice were 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 Charles C. Fleek
Medal of Honor Recipient Charles C. Fleek
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: February 16, 1971
    The White House (East Ballroom), presented by Pres. Richard M. Nixon to his family
  • Born: August 28, 1947, Petersburg, Boone County, KY, United States
  • Died: May 27, 1967, Republic of Vietnam
  • Buried: Petersburg Cemetery, Petersburg, KY, United States
  • Location of Medal: Boone County Administration Building, Burlington, KY
 

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