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 CommandingOfficer, Company A, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion,
3d Marine Division in action against hostile Viet Cong forces near Danang, Vietnam on 12
July 1965. The reconnaissance patrol led by First Lieutenant Reasoner had deeply
penetrated heavily controlled enemy territory when it came under extremely heavy fire from
an estimated 50 to 100 Viet Cong insurgents. Accompanying the advance party and the point
that consisted of five men, he immediately deployed his men for an assault after the Viet
Cong had opened fire from numerous concealed positions. Boldly shouting encouragement, and
virtually isolated from the main body, he organized a base of fire for an assault on the
enemy positions. The slashing fury of the Viet Cong machine gun and automatic weapons fire
made it impossible for the main body to move forward. Repeatedly exposing himself to the
devastating attack he skillfully provided covering fire, killing at least two Viet Cong
and effectively silencing an automatic weapons position in a valiant attempt to effect
evacuation of a wounded man. As casualties began to mount his radio operator was wounded
and First Lieutenant Reasoner immediately moved to his side and tended his wounds. When
the radio operator was hit a second time while attempting to reach a covered position,
First Lieutenant Reasoner courageously running to his aid through the grazing machine gun
fire fell mortally wounded. His indomitable fighting spirit, valiant leadership and
unflinching devotion to duty provided the inspiration that was to enable the patrol to
complete its mission without further casualties. In the face of almost certain death, he
gallantly gave his life in the service of his country. His actions upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. |
