For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. On 5 April 1966, Sergeant McNichol was serving as the reconnaissance sergeant for an artillery forward observer team supporting an infantry company near Trung Lap, Republic of Vietnam. When this company came under attack by a hostile force of battalion strength, Sergeant McNichol noticed the absence of the artillery forward observer. Although wounded during the initial hostile attack, Sergeant McNichol repeatedly exposed himself to intense insurgent fire to effectively observe and adjust friendly artillery support which finally routed the initial Viet Cong onslaught. Although wounded a second time during subsequent fights, he constantly refused to be evacuated and continued to direct devastating artillery fire upon the insurgents with complete disregard for his own personal safety. Sustaining still another wound during the Viet Cong’s final desperate assault, Sergeant McNichol remained at his position and continued to direct murderous fire upon the insurgents until he lost consciousness from shock and loss of blood. The deadly hail of artillery fire which he placed upon the hostile force coupled with his outstanding personal example successfully rallied his embattled comrades to repulse the Viet Cong assaults, inflicting severe casualties upon their ranks. Sergeant McNichol’s 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.