SSG Stumpf's Gallant Action

SSG Kenneth E. Stumpf, a squad leader in the 3rd Platoon of Company C, was on a search and destroy mission when his company encountered a North Vietnamese rifle company entrenched in a fortified bunker complex. As the platoon made initial contact, three of Stumpf’s squad members were wounded in front of an enemy machine gun position. Heavy enemy fire blocked any attempts to reach them, but SSG Stumpf left the safety of his trench, braving the intense fire, to rescue his injured comrades. He ran through the barrage, carrying each of the three wounded soldiers back to safety, making three separate trips despite the enemy’s concentrated gunfire.

After rescuing his squad members, SSG Stumpf organized his team and led an assault against several enemy bunkers, eliminating two but facing a heavily defended machine gun position still blocking the platoon’s advance. Equipping himself with extra grenades, SSG Stumpf ran across open ground under fire, reaching the bunker and throwing a grenade through its opening. When the enemy threw it back, he took cover, then activated two more grenades, holding them briefly before tossing them in again, this time successfully neutralizing the threat. With the machine gun position destroyed, his unit advanced and overran the enemy position. For his exceptional bravery, SSG Stumpf was awarded the Medal of Honor.