Sergeant Lawrence D. Peters’ Final Stand in Vietnam

On September 4, 1967, during Operation SWIFT in Quang Tin Province, Vietnam, Lawrence D. Peters served as a Squad Leader with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division. When the second platoon of Company M came under intense mortar, machine gun, and small arms fire from a well-entrenched enemy, Sergeant Peters rallied his squad in an assault on a fortified knoll, disregarding his own safety. Amid heavy enemy fire, he stood openly, identifying enemy positions, even after being wounded in the leg. Pressing on, he continued leading his men despite his injury.

As the enemy’s fire intensified, temporarily halting his squad’s advance, Sergeant Peters once again exposed himself to danger, consolidating his position to enhance the squad’s firepower. While directing the fire, he was hit again by a mortar blast, suffering wounds to his face and neck. Observing the enemy trying to infiltrate a nearby platoon’s position, Sergeant Peters stood fully exposed, firing bursts that forced the enemy to reveal their positions. He continued firing until he was critically wounded by a shot to the chest. Although immobilized, he persisted in directing his squad, encouraging his men despite sustaining additional wounds, until he ultimately lost consciousness and succumbed.

Sergeant Peters’ selfless actions inspired his squad to regain fire superiority and resume their assault on the enemy. His extraordinary bravery and sacrifice were recognized with the Medal of Honor.