CORPORAL WILLIAM T. PERKINS, JR.
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
 

For conspicuous gallantry and  intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call
of duty while serving as a combat photographer attached to Company C, First Battalion, First
Marines, First Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam on 12 October 1967.  During
Operation MEDINA, a major reconnaissance in force, southwest of Quang Tri, Company C made heavy combat contact with a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army Force estimated at from two to three companies.  The focal point of the intense fighting was a helicopter landing zone which
was also serving as the Command Post of Company C.  In the course of a strong hostile attack,an enemy grenade landed in the immediate area occupied by Corporal Perkins and three other Marines.  Realizing the inherent danger, he shouted the warning, "Incoming Grenade" to his fellow Marines, and in a valiant act of heroism, hurled himself upon the grenade absorbing the impact of the explosion with his own body thereby saving the lives of his comrades at the cost of his own.  Through his exceptional courage and inspiring valor in the face of certain death, Corporal Perkins reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.  He gallantly gave his life for hiscountry.
 

RICHARD M. NIXON
President of the United States

Return to Top of PageReturn to Main PageReturn to Alphabetical Page