EDWARD L. CARNES, FIRST LIEUTENANT FIELD ARTILLERY, U.S. Army, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 39th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Carnes distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 January 1969 while serving as a forward observer for his company during a reconnaissance-in-force mission near Long Hiep in Kien Phong Province. As his unit crossed an open field adjacent to a woodline, a large enemy force opened fire with small arms, automatic weapons and hand grenades, killing the company commander, with their initial volley. Immediately taking command, LTC Carnes braved the fusillade to lead his men in repelling the first wave of the aggressors. After organizing a defensive perimeter, he made repeated attempts to reach his commander, who lay under a hail of bullets. Finally determining that the man was dead, he withdrew back to the perimeter. Intense hostile fire was now coming from three sides, preventing his men from maneuvering. Taking a dangerously exposed position, Lieutenant Carnes directed tactical air and gun ship strikes against the foe. Seeing that one machine gun was situated to sweep his entire company, he maneuvered alone over thirty meters of bullet-swept terrain and slew the enemy gunner with a burst from his rifle. He killed another Viet Cong before returning to his command group and then began leading his force into position as part of a brigade encirclement. Throughout the night, Lieutenant Carnes continued to command his company and expertly adjusted artillery fire within meters of his own location. First Lieutenant Carnes’ 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.

LTC. Carnes resides in New Jersey and has been a member of the Legion of Valor since 1985. He is a LIFE MEMBER of the Legion of Valor.