Stationed at Plei Djereng Special Forces Camp about 10 miles from the Cambodian border near Pleiku, his unit was primarily tasked with search and destroy missions while monitoring activity on and around the Ho Chi Minh Trail. It was during one of these missions that Sgt. Ted Bunker laid down his life to protect the men he was leading. In doing so, he not only prevented any other casualties, but he also distinguished himself among so many brave men who simply felt they were doing their job and doing what anyone else would have done having been in their position. For his actions that day, 49 years ago today, he was recognized with the Medal of Honor.
I have read many stories of Medal of Honor recipients and a few things stand out. Unparalleled bravery in the face of some really tough circumstances, incredible humility about what they did, and an unwavering respect and honoring attitude towards those they served with, many who were killed in the actions the recipients were recognized for. I can't recall one that I've heard speak who didn't emphatically say that the Medal they wear around their neck is not theirs, it belongs to the men they fought with, they are just the keepers. In my opinion, you cannot be the type of person who would lay down or risk your own life for others, without feeling the way they do afterward. It is the most selfless attitude a person can have.
Ted Belcher demonstrated those qualities the day he gave his life for his brothers. Let us never forget men like Sgt Belcher, who willingly do what they do with no thought what so ever about any recognition or medal that they me get afterward.
Sgt Belcher's Medal of Honor citation reads:
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Sergeant Ted Belcher (ASN: 35657249), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces at Plei Djerang, Republic of Vietnam, on 19 November 1966. Sergeant Belcher's unit was engaged in a search and destroy mission with Company B, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, the Battalion Reconnaissance Platoon and a Special Forces company of civilian irregular defense group personnel. As a squad leader of the 2d Platoon of Company C, Sergeant Belcher was leading his men when they encountered a bunker complex. The reconnaissance platoon, located a few hundred meters northwest of Company C, received a heavy volume of fire from well camouflaged snipers. As the 2d Platoon moved forward to assist the unit under attack, Sergeant Belcher and his squad, advancing only a short distance through the dense jungle terrain, met heavy and accurate automatic weapons and sniper fire. Sergeant Belcher and his squad were momentarily stopped by the deadly volume of enemy fire. He quickly gave the order to return fire and resume the advance toward the enemy. As he moved up with his men, a hand grenade landed in the midst of the sergeant's squad. Instantly realizing the immediate danger to his men, Sergeant Belcher, unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his safety, lunged forward, covering the grenade with his body. Absorbing the grenade blast at the cost of his life, he saved his comrades from becoming casualties. Sergeant Belcher's profound concern for his fellow soldiers, at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
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