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HERE
ASSAULT ON NVA POSITION 5 KM WEST OF CA LU AFLD 19680408
UTM grid reference is XD951482
W/ Fox 2/1
Comments/Citation:
Tour start date 02/15/1968
The President of the Untied Sates takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal posthumously to Allen E. Groshong Hospital Corpsman Third Class United States Navy for service as set forth in the following Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 8 April 1968 while serving as a corpsman with Company "F", Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam. During a search and destroy operation near Hill 504 in Quang Tri Province, Petty Officer (then Hospitalman) Groshong's platoon became heavily engaged with a North Vietnamese force which was employing command-detonated mines, grenades, automatic weapons, and small arms. While assaulting the hostile positions, the platoon sustained several casualties, and its right flank was pinned down near the enemy. Unhesitatingly moving to the side of the casualties, Petty Officer Groshong commenced treating their wounds. Although painfully wounded while crawling across the fire-swept terrain to assist several casualties lying in an exposed area, he continued to advance until he reached the wounded men. Disregarding his own safety, Petty Officer Groshong resolutely remained in the exposed position, treating and comforting casualties until he was mortally wounded by continuing fire. His heroic actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several of his comrades. By his extraordinary courage, resolute determination, and selfless devotion to duty, Petty Officer Groshong upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. For the President, T. H. Moorer Admiral, United States Navy Chief of Naval Operations
