CORPORAL JAMES L. STUCKEY, United States Marine Corps. For extraordinary heroism as a Fire Team Leader with Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division (Reinforced), in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam on 6 July 1967. While in a defensive Position and surrounded by a large North Vietnamese Army force, Corporal (then Lance Corporal) Stuckey’s fire team occupied a strategic point on the company’s right flank. During one heavy attack, three enemy grenades landed in the fire team’s position. Completely disregarding his own safety, Corporal Stuckey unhesitatingly picked up the grenades and hurled them back toward the enemy. As he was throwing the third grenade, it exploded severing his right hand. Despite the painful wound, he steadfastly refused to abandon his position, and courageously continued to fight and encourage his men. Although he evacuated one of his wounded men, Corporal Stuckey refused to seek aid for himself and staunchly repulsed the furious onslaught throughout the night, accepting treatment only when the enemy had withdrawn the following morning. His valiant leadership and courageous fighting spirit served to inspire the men in his platoon to heroic endeavor in repelling the enemy, and reflected the highest credit upon himself and the Marine Corps. By his heroic conduct and fearless devotion to duty, Corporal Stuckey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Mr. Stuckey is a life member and resides in Florida.