b. 09/11/1944 Auburn, New York. d. 07/11/1967 near Loc Ninh, Vietnam.
DATE OF MOH ACTION: 07/11/1967 near Loc Ninh, Vietnam.
Vietnam War Medal of Honor Recipient. He served in the United States Army during the War in Vietnam as a Specialist Four in Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery near Loc Ninh, Republic of Vietnam, on November 7, 1967. His family received his posthumous Medal of Honor on November 4, 1969 at The White House from Vice President Spiro T. Agnew.
MOH CITATION:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. Stryker, U.S. Army, distinguished himself while serving with Company C. Sp4c. Stryker was serving as a grenadier in a multicompany reconnaissance-in-force near Loc Ninh. As his unit moved through the dense underbrush, it was suddenly met with a hail of rocket, automatic-weapons, and small-arms fire from enemy forces concealed in fortified bunkers and in the surrounding trees. Reacting quickly, Sp4c. Stryker fired into the enemy positions with his grenade launcher. During the devastating exchange of fire, Sp4c. Stryker detected enemy elements attempting to encircle his company and isolate it from the main body of the friendly force. Undaunted by the enemy machine-gun and small-arms fire, Sp4c. Stryker repeatedly fired grenades into the trees, killing enemy snipers and enabling his comrades to sever the attempted encirclement. As the battle continued, Sp4c. Stryker observed several wounded members of his squad in the killing zone of an enemy claymore mine. With complete disregard for his safety, he threw himself upon the mine as it was detonated. He was mortally wounded as his body absorbed the blast and shielded his comrades from the explosion. His unselfish actions were responsible for saving the lives of at least six of his fellow soldiers. Sp4c. Stryker’s great personal bravery was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
BURIAL LOCATION: PINE HILL CEMETERY, THROOP, NEW YORK.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: FAMILY.