U.S. MARINE CORPS

Walter K. Singleton

Rank:

SERGEANT

Conflict/Era:

VIETNAM WAR

Unit/Command:

COMPANY A, 1ST BATTALION, 9TH MARINES, 3D MARINE DIVISION (REIN) FMF

Military Service Branch:

U.S. MARINE CORPS

Medal of Honor Action Date:

MARCH 24, 1967

Medal of Honor Action Place:

GIO LINH DISTRICT, QUANG TRI PROVINCE, REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM

Citation:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Singleton's company was conducting combat operations when the lead platoon received intense small-arms, automatic-weapons, rocket, and mortar fire from a well-entrenched enemy force. As the company fought its way forward, the extremely heavy enemy fire caused numerous friendly casualties. Sensing the need for early treatment of the wounded, Sgt. Singleton quickly moved from his relatively safe position in the rear of the foremost point of the advance and made numerous trips through the enemy killing zone to move the injured men out of the danger area. Noting that a large part of the enemy fire was coming from a hedgerow, he seized a machine gun and assaulted the key enemy location, delivering devastating fire as he advanced. He forced his way through the hedgerow directly into the enemy strong point. Although he was mortally wounded, his fearless attack killed eight of the enemy and drove the remainder from the hedgerow. Sgt. Singleton's bold actions completely disorganized the enemy defense and saved the lives of many of his comrades. His daring initiative, selfless devotion to duty and indomitable fighting spirit reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps, and his performance upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Additional Information:

Awarded Posthumously:

YES

Born:

DECEMBER 7, 1944, MEMPHIS, SHELBY COUNTY, TENNESSEE

Died:

MARCH 24, 1967, REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM