For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty the Medal of Honor was awarded to SPECIALIST FOUR THOMAS J. McMAHON United States Army
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty Specialist Four Thomas J. McMahon distinguished himself on 19 March 1969 while serving as Medical Aidman with Company A, 2d Battalion, 1st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division, in Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam. When the lead elements of his company came under heavy fire from well-fortified enemy positions, three soldiers fell seriously wounded. Specialist McMahon, with complete disregard for his own safety, left his covered position and ran through intense enemy fire to the side of one of the wounded, administered first aid and then carried him to safety. He returned through the hail of fire to the side of a second wounded man. Although painfully wounded by an exploding mortar round while returning the wounded man to a secure position, Specialist McMahon refused medical attention and heroically ran back through the heavy enemy fire toward his remaining wounded comrade. He fell mortally wounded before he could rescue the last man. Specialist McMahon's undaunted concern for the welfare of his comrades at the cost of his life are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
