US Navy HM3 James Ashby: Vietnam War Navy Cross Recipient

Navy Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Third Class James Wesley Ashby (NSN: 9140268), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 1 June 1967 while serving as a Corpsman with Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam. During a search and destroy operation, Petty Officer Ashby's company came under intense fire from a large, North Vietnamese Army force deeply entrenched in a cleverly-concealed and heavily defended bunker complex, and suffered heavy casualties during the first few minutes of the fierce battle. Responding immediately, Petty Officer Ashby dashed from his position of relative safety and, seemingly impervious to the murderous hostile, automatic-weapons fire sweeping the area, moved through the open terrain, treating and encouraging the wounded. Completely aware of the grave danger involved in remaining in a position exposed to the withering enemy fire, he staunchly refused to seek cover while there were wounded Marines in need of assistance, placing the welfare of his wounded comrades above his own personal safety. As he knelt over a seriously wounded Marine, shielding the Marine with his own body while administering lifesaving first aid, Petty Officer Ashby was mortally wounded by enemy sniper fire. By his inspiring courage in the face of great personal danger, his deep compassion for his comrades-in-arms, his outstanding professional ability, and his unfaltering devotion to duty, he succeeded in saving the lives of many Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Please view our other video to learn about our Medal of Honor heroes.

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