[amazinglygraceless]

On 23 December 2009 Colonel Robert L. Howard, one of the most decorated
soldiers to EVER wear the uniform of our nation passed away.

This man represented the best of the United States. God bless him and those
he leaves behind.

A few highlights of this heroes stellar life and career.

Nominated for the Medal of Honor on THREE separate occasions. (No one can
receive the award more than once).

Major awards:

Medal of Honor
Distinguished Service Cross (twice)
Silver Star
Defense Superior Service Medal
Legion of Merit (four times)
Bronze Star (4 times)
Purple Heart (eight times)

MEDAL OF HONOR CITATION:

The President of the United States in the name of The Congress takes pride in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to

FIRST LIEUTENANT

ROBERT L. HOWARD
UNITED STATES ARMY

for service as set forth in the following CITATION:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. 1st Lt. Howard (then Sfc .), distinguished himself while serving as platoon sergeant of an American-Vietnamese platoon which was on a mission to rescue a missing American soldier in enemy controlled territory in the Republic of Vietnam. The platoon had left its helicopter landing zone and was moving out on its mission when it was attacked by an estimated 2-company force. During the initial engagement, 1st Lt. Howard was wounded and his weapon destroyed by a grenade explosion. 1st Lt. Howard saw his platoon leader had been wounded seriously and was exposed to fire. Although unable to walk, and weaponless, 1st Lt. Howard unhesitatingly crawled through a hail of fire to retrieve his wounded leader. As 1st Lt. Howard was administering first aid and removing the officer's equipment, an enemy bullet struck 1 of the ammunition pouches on the lieutenant's belt, detonating several magazines of ammunition. 1st Lt. Howard momentarily sought cover and then realizing that he must rejoin the platoon, which had been disorganized by the enemy attack, he again began dragging the seriously wounded officer toward the platoon area. Through his outstanding example of indomitable courage and bravery, 1st Lt. Howard was able to rally the platoon into an organized defense force. With complete disregard for his safety, 1st Lt. Howard crawled from position to position, administering first aid to the wounded, giving encouragement to the defenders and directing their fire on the encircling enemy. For 3 1/2 hours 1st Lt. Howard's small force and supporting aircraft successfully repulsed enemy attacks and finally were in sufficient control to permit the landing of rescue helicopters. 1st Lt. Howard personally supervised the loading of his men and did not leave the bullet-swept landing zone until all were aboard safely. 1st Lt. Howard's gallantry in action, his complete devotion to the welfare of his men at the risk of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

[phonejunky]

thanks you for posting this and from a soldiers point of view its always hurts to see a good soldier leave us, hopefully his life will serve as an example to current and new soldiers in our great military. hooah!!!!! go army!

[amazinglygraceless]

I am not a veteran, just the son of a USMC Gunnery Sergeant. I do however have
the utmost respect for all who wore, are wearing and will wear the uniform.

At this time of the year when we are enjoying our holiday, our families and the honor
we have to live in the United States let's take a moment to remember those who
got us here and defend us to this very day.

[BigBadWulf]

Thanks Ken, the man was the best this country has to offer. May God hold him near to his heart, and comfort his family and friends.

Posted from my CrackBerry at wapforums.crackberry.com

[zx7rou812]

More than half his was given to the service of this Country.

Stand down Colonel, your battle is over.
You may now rest in peace, hero.

[AaronWasHere]

Wow... Rest in Peace Colonel, and thank you

[12MaNy]

What does one man have to do with an entire generation? Every generation has it's share of truly great people.