A Marine gunnery sergeant gives his gas mask to a wounded comrade at Belleau Wood and walks unprotected into the gas — knowing it will kill him.
A Marine gunnery sergeant gives his gas mask to a wounded comrade at Belleau Wood and walks unprotected into the gas — knowing it will kill him.
“I moved the old lady out of the way and went in. The whole kitchen was on fire. The ceiling had flashed over…”
“Brady had this warrior inside of him that just got unleashed when these insurgents started shooting at him.”
For his heroics, Marines nicknamed Van Orden, “The Beast.” His reckless, inspiring leadership earned a Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Navy Cross.
The only Marine Aviator awarded a Medal of Honor in Vietnam. The most decorated aircrew of the entire war. All in one afternoon.
Dick Fleming’s book is an easy and enjoyable read, and an important addition to the history of Marines in Vietnam.