Lance Corporal Knox, Curtis P. USMC Bronze Star Medal The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the BRONZE STAR MEDAL to LANCE CORPORAL CURTIS P. KNOX UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS for service as set fort in the following CITATION: "For heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing. On 26 January 1969, Lance Corporal Knox launched as an Aerial Gunner aboard the second aircraft in a flight of two CH-46 transport helicopters assigned the emergency medical evacuation of a seriously wounded Marine from an area in Quang Nam Province, and en route to the designated location, the lead aircraft executed a crash landing and exploded on contact. Despite flares which were dropped as Lance Corporal Knox's transport hovered overhead, the dense jungle canopy prevented the members of the crew from determining if there were any survivors. Although there was every probability of hostile soldiers in the vicinity, and fully aware of the possible consequences of his selfless actions, Lance Corporal Knox unhesitatingly volunteered to be lowered into the crash site by mechanical hoist. With complete disregard for his own safety, and thinking only to be of assistance to his fellow Marines, he was lowered through the treetops. When the entire length of the cable was extended, he was still fifty feet above the ground and the decision was made to return him to the helicopter. At this point, the rewind mechanism of the hoist became inoperable, and the only alternative method of retrieving him was to carry him to a landing zone and lower him to the ground. With Lance Corporal Knox dangling from the collar of the hoist by the sheer strength of his hands and arms, the pilot carefully raised him from the jungle canopy, and as the Marine steadfastly maintained his precarious grip, he was transported a distance of six miles before a suitable landing zone was located. Lance Corporal Knox's courage, selfless concern for his fellowmen and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk inspired all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service." The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized. FOR THE PRESIDENT /S/ H. W. BUSE, JR. LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC