Specialist Four Santiago J. Erevia's Brave Actions in Vietnam, 1969

On May 21, 1969, Specialist Four Santiago J. Erevia was serving as a radio telephone operator with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 501st Infantry, 101st Airborne Division during a search-and-clear mission near Tam Ky, Republic of Vietnam. After his unit breached an enemy perimeter, Erevia was assigned by his platoon leader to provide first aid to several wounded soldiers while the rest of the platoon advanced. As he rendered aid, he came under intense fire from four enemy bunkers directly ahead.

Rather than seeking cover, Erevia chose to take action. Exposed to heavy fire, he crawled from one wounded soldier to another, gathering ammunition. With two M-16 rifles and several hand grenades, he launched a one-man assault on the enemy positions, using suppressive fire to cover his approach. As he neared the first bunker, he threw a grenade inside, destroying the fortification and killing the insurgent. Without hesitation, he employed the same tactics to neutralize the second and third bunkers.

By the time he reached the fourth bunker, Erevia had run out of grenades. Undeterred, he advanced under intense fire, using his rifles for cover fire. Upon reaching the edge of the bunker, he silenced the final insurgent at point-blank range. His heroic actions saved the lives of the wounded and relieved the Company Command Post from a perilous situation. His extraordinary bravery and selfless commitment to his comrades inspired his entire unit and significantly contributed to the mission’s success.

For his valor, Specialist Four Erevia was awarded the Medal of Honor. He passed away on March 22, 2016, at the age of 70.