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Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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Vietnam War - U.S. Army

Lester Raymond Stone Jr.

Details
  • Rank: Sergeant
  • Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
  • Unit/Command:
    1st Platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, 20th Infantry, 11th Infantry Brigade,
    23d Infantry Division (Americal)
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: March 3, 1969
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: west of Landing Zone Liz, 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. Stone distinguished himself while serving as squad leader of the 1st Platoon. The 1st Platoon was on a combat patrol mission just west of Landing Zone Liz when it came under intense automatic-weapons and grenade fire from a well-concealed company-size force of North Vietnamese regulars. Observing the platoon machine gunner fall critically wounded, Sgt. Stone remained in the exposed area to provide cover fire for the wounded soldier who was being pulled to safety by another member of the platoon. With enemy fire impacting all around him, Sgt. Stone had a malfunction in the machine gun, preventing him from firing the weapon automatically. Displaying extraordinary courage under the most adverse conditions, Sgt. Stone repaired the weapon and continued to place on the enemy positions effective suppressive fire which enabled the rescue to be completed. In a desperate attempt to overrun his position, an enemy force left its cover and charged Sgt. Stone. Disregarding the danger involved, Sgt. Stone rose to his knees and began placing intense fire on the enemy at point-blank range, killing six of the enemy before falling mortally wounded. His actions of unsurpassed valor were a source of inspiration to his entire unit, and he was responsible for saving the lives of a number of his fellow soldiers. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military profession and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Medal of Honor Recipient Lester R. Stone Jr.
Medal of Honor Recipient Lester R. Stone Jr.
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Syracuse, Onondaga County, New York
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: April 7, 1970

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

  • Born: June 4, 1947, Binghamton, Broome County, NY, United States
  • Died: March 3, 1969, Republic of Vietnam
  • Buried: Chenango Valley Cemetery (MH), Binghamton, NY, United States
 

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