MANSFIELD, GORDON H. CAPTAIN INFANTRY United States Army, Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infantry, 2d Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Mansfield distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 4 February 1968 as commanding officer of an airborne infantry company on a search and clear operation near Hai Lang. When his company came under devastating enemy fire, he immediately manuevered his elements into positions for an attack. Receiving word that one platoon had been pinned down by enemy automatic weapons fire, he led a second platoon into position for a frontal assault upon the enemy. When the attack stalled in the face of ravaging fire, he led five men to the enemy’s flank. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he led a savage charge upon the enemy position that completely destroyed it. Captain Mansfield repeatedly exposed himself to enemy weapons fire to evacuate his wounded men. While moving the casualties to safety, he was seriously wounded. Refusing aid, he continued to direct the evacuation of the wounded and coordinated with an adjoining company for aid. Only when he was certain that his men were safe did he agree to his own evacuation. Captain Mansfields’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Mr. Mansfield, a life member resides in Maryland and has been a member of the Legion of Valor since 1981.