Michael A. McClean, United States Army: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: Specialist Four McClean distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 February 1969 while serving as a member of an ambush patrol operating in Long An Province. While established in a night defensive position, his platoon came under an intense Viet Cong attack. When a rocket-propelled grenade landed in the command post killing the radio- telephone operator and seriously wounding both the platoon leader and platoon sergeant, Specialist McClean immediately rushed forward to lay suppressive fire on the enemy and direct his comrades into effective firing positions. When the squads were in place, he began maneuvering from position to position assisting the wounded. He then moved to the damaged command post and assumed command of the platoon from the wounded leaders. As the battle progressed, he became aware that one hostile emplacement seemed immune to the machine gun fire being placed on it. Obtaining an M-72 light antitank weapon, Specialist McClean advanced through the hail of bullets well ahead of his squad’s position and eliminated the hostile fortification. Returning to the command post, he found a radio and began to call in gunships, artillery, and medical evacuation helicopters. After adjusting supporting fire on the enemy positions, he began to supervise the extraction of casualties. Learning of another communist machine gun emplacement that escaped the deadly gunship barrage, Specialist McClean again used a light antitank weapon to silence the bunker. He then continued to move among his men directing retaliatory fire until the enemy force was routed. Specialist McClean’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.

The above picture was taken while Michael and his wife Judy were in Alaska. They currently live in Templeton, CA.