On January 31, 1968, Spc. 5 Dwight W. Birdwell's tank column was ambushed by three PAVN battalions. The lead tank was disabled by an explosion that prevented the following units from being able to push through the attack, followed by a coordinated assault from both sides of the road. After escorting his wounded tank commander to safety, Birdwell assumed his position. His actions in the ensuing battle helped inspire his fellow soldiers to press on against a larger force, ultimately leading to victory for U.S. forces at Tan Son Nhut Air Base. For heroism in this battle, Birdwell was awarded the Medal of Honor on July 5, 2022.
30 янв 2023