Youngest MOH recipient in Viet Nam

[jim c 351]

I'm normally on the lookout for MOH recipients who used a Thompson.

When I received my copy of the VFW magazine today, this Marine's story really made me take notice. Here is the official citation.

http://projects.militarytimes.com/citations-medals-awards/recipient.php?recipientid=2728

There is much that the official citation doesn't say.

PFC Burke joined the Marines, at 17, to learn motor vehicle repair and completed that school. In 1968 the Marines needed rifleman more than mechanics and Burke had to trade his wrench for a M60 MG.

PFC Burke disobeyed orders on his way to history. He was ordered to stay put, but as the day dragged on with no relief in site ,he took action, and single handedly put the enemy on the defensive.

He had always told his mother that he worked in the rear, out of danger. So the truth shocked the family.

Jim C

[Robert Henley]

Looks a little like Paul Newman when he was 18.