Vietnam War - U.S. Marine Corps

James Donnie Howe

• Rank: Lance Corporal
• Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
• Unit/Command:
  Company I, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines,
  1st Marine Division (Rein) FMF
• Military Service Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
• Medal of Honor Action Date: May 6, 1970
• Medal of Honor Action Place: Republic of Vietnam

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company I, during operations against enemy forces. In the early morning hours L/Cpl. Howe and two other marines were occupying a defensive position in a sandy beach area fronted by bamboo thickets. Enemy sappers suddenly launched a grenade attack against the position, utilizing the cover of darkness to carry out their assault. Following the initial explosions of the grenades, L/Cpl. Howe and his two comrades moved to a more advantageous position in order to return suppressive fire. When an enemy grenade landed in their midst, L/Cpl. Howe immediately shouted a warning and then threw himself upon the deadly missile, thereby protecting the lives of the fellow marines. His heroic and selfless action was in keeping with the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the U.S. Naval Service. He valiantly gave his life in the service of his country.