Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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Vietnam War - U.S. Army

Rodney John Evans

Details
  • Rank: Sergeant
  • Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company D, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry,
    1st Cavalry Division
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: July 18, 1969
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Tay Ninh 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. Evans distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism while serving as a squad leader in a reconnaissance sweep through heavy vegetation to reconnoiter a strong enemy position. As the force approached a well-defined trail, the platoon scout warned that the trail was booby-trapped. Sgt. Evans led his squad on a route parallel to the trail. The force had started to move forward when a nearby squad was hit by the blast of a concealed mine. Looking to his right Sgt. Evans saw a second enemy device. With complete disregard for his safety he shouted a warning to his men, dived to the ground, and crawled toward the mine. Just as he reached it an enemy soldier detonated the explosive and Sgt. Evans absorbed the full impact with his body. His gallant and selfless action saved his comrades from probable death or injury and served as an inspiration to his entire unit. Sgt. Evans' gallantry in action at the cost of his life was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Medal of Honor Recipient Rodney J. Evans
Medal of Honor Recipient Rodney J. Evans
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Montgomery, Montgomery County, Alabama
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: April 22, 1971
    The White House, presented by Pres. Richard M. Nixon to his family
  • Born: July 17, 1948, Chelsea, Suffolk County, MA, United States
  • Died: July 18, 1969, Republic of Vietnam
  • Buried: Liberty Hill Cemetery (MH), Florala, AL, United States
 

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