CAPTAIN RUSSELL L. HUNTER, Medical Corps. For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. On 19 October 1965, the Special Forces camp at Plei Me came under attack by a North Vietnamese regiment. In the early stages of the seige, heavy casualties were sustained by the hard-pressed defenders. Realizing that a mass casualty situation existed and the requirement for helicopter evacuation, Captain Hunter volunteered to fly into the camp in order to provide professional on-the-spot medical care. Immediately upon landing, Captain Hunter began treating and sorting the many wounded under the most adverse conditions of hostile fire and limited facilities. Throughout the attack, he continually exposed himself to hostile small arms and mortar fire in order to retrieve and administer first aid to the wounded. By his presence on the ground, he was able to ascertain when medical evacuation was absolutely necessary, thereby reducing risk to the helicopter pilot and his crew. To minimize the ground time spent by the rescue helicopters in the battle area, he personally sorted the more seriously wounded and the dead troops and efficienly supervised their evacuation. In doing so he was wounded himself by mortar fragments. Despite his wounds and with complete disregard for his own safety, he continued to sort, treat and administer first aid to the wounded, before tending to his own wounds. Captain Hunter’s courage under fire and his professional ability set an example for many other heroic acts by the defenders. His impact on the morale of the Plei Me Garrison contributed immeasurearably to the successful defense of the camp. By his voluntary entry into a dangerous situation, he was not only able to save numerous lives but to instill a greater will to resist among the defenders. Captain Hunter’s actions and example during six days of constant exposure to hostile fire was a source of inspiration to his comrades. His extraordinary heroism and gallantry in action are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

Mr. Hunter resides in Arizona.