for
service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty while serving as a Assistant Fire Team Leader with Company E, Third
Reconnaissance Battalion, Third Marine Division, in connection with combat operations
against an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. While conducting a patrol during the
early morning hours of 24 August 1969, Lance Corporal Anderson's reconnaissance team came
under a heavy volume of automatic weapons and machine-gun fire from a numerically superior
and well-concealed enemy force. Although painfully wounded in both legs and knocked to the
ground during the initial moments of the fierce fire fight, Lance Corporal Anderson
assumed a prone position and continued to deliver intense suppressive fire in an attempt
to repulse the attackers. Moments later he was wounded a second time by an enemy soldier
who had approached to within eight feet of the team's position. Undaunted, he continued to
pour a relentless stream of fire at the assaulting unit, even while a companion was
treating his leg wounds. Observing an enemy grenade land between himself and the other
Marine, Lance Corporal Anderson immediately rolled over and covered the lethal weapon with
his body, absorbing the full effects of the detonation. By his indomitable courage,
inspiring initiative, and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Anderson was
instrumental in saving several Marines from serious injury or possible death. His actions
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life in the service of his country. |
