– Roger Donlon Vietnam War
– Roger Donlon Medal of Honor recipient.
Title: Captain Donlon, Vietnam War Hero, Passes Away at 89
Date: [Insert Date]
In a tragic incident, Captain Donlon, a decorated war veteran and the first Medal of Honor recipient from the Vietnam War, has passed away at the age of 89. The news of his death comes as a shocking development for the military community and the nation as a whole. Captain Donlon, who retired with the rank of colonel, died on Thursday in Leavenworth, Kan.
Captain Donlon’s remarkable journey began on January 30, 1934, in Saugerties, N.Y. Born to hardworking parents, his father employed at a coal and lumber yard and his mother a homemaker, he grew up with a strong sense of duty and service.
Joining the Army in 1958, Captain Donlon went on to earn the prestigious green beret of the Special Forces at the Army Special Warfare School in Fort Bragg, N.C. He served in Vietnam, where he demonstrated immense bravery and resilience in the face of adversity.
The events leading to Captain Donlon’s heroic act took place on July 6, 1964. As the base he was stationed at, Nam Dong, came under heavy mortar fire, he led the defense against two Viet Cong battalions. Despite being wounded four times during the battle, Captain Donlon fought valiantly, saving ammunition and weapons while ensuring the safety of his teammates.
The battle for Nam Dong lasted for days, with the North Vietnamese soldiers and allied guerrillas attempting to overrun the camp. Captain Donlon’s leadership and courage inspired those around him, and he became a symbol of hope amidst the chaos.
During the intense firefight, Captain Donlon sustained multiple injuries, including a shrapnel wound in his left leg and a coin-sized wound in his stomach. Despite the pain, he continued to crawl between defensive pits, checking on his team and others. Tragically, several members of his team, including Master Sergeant Gabriel Ralph Alamo and Sergeant John L. Houston, lost their lives in the battle.
With the camp surrounded and the mortar barrages relentless, Captain Donlon took it upon himself to request flare ship and an airstrike. The subsequent airstrikes proved to be a turning point, as the North Vietnamese positions were blasted, and the remaining enemy forces finally retreated. Captain Donlon’s actions saved countless lives and earned him the Medal of Honor, the highest military award for valor.
After retiring from the military in 1988, Captain Donlon continued to contribute to society through his memoir, “Beyond Nam Dong,” published in 1998. He also worked with veterans’ groups, including Wreaths Across America, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who have served.
Captain Donlon’s dedication to his country and his unwavering spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, including his wife Norma Shinno Irving, his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter, as well as his brothers.
In a shocking turn of events, the nation mourns the loss of a true American hero. Captain Donlon’s remarkable story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our military personnel and the lasting impact they have on our lives. May his soul rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire generations to come..
Roger Donlon, first Medal of Honor recipient from Vietnam War, dies at 89
Roger Donlon, first Medal of Honor recipient from Vietnam War, passes away at 89.
