b. 24/06/1948 Washington DC. d. 19/03/1969 Quang Tin Province, Vietnam.
DATE OF MOH ACTION: 19/03/1969 Quang Tin Province, Vietnam.
Thomas J McMahon MOH
McMahon joined the Army from Portland, Maine in 1967, and by March 19, 1969, was a Specialist Four serving as a combat medic in Company A, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, 196th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. On that day, in Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam, he attempted to rescue three wounded soldiers despite heavy enemy fire. He was able to carry two of the men to safety but was mortally wounded while trying to rescue the third.
McMahon, aged 20 at his death, was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery, Lewiston, Maine. A Lewiston elementary school is currently named in his honour. His Medal of Honor was presented posthumously to his family on August 6, 1970 at The White House by President Richard M. Nixon.
MOH CITATION:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. McMahon distinguished himself while serving as medical aidman with Company A. When the lead elements of his company came under heavy fire from well-fortified enemy positions, three soldiers fell seriously wounded. Sp4c. McMahon, with complete disregard for his 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, Sp4c. 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. Sp4c. 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 U.S. Army.
BURIAL LOCATION: MOUNT HOPE CEMETERY, LEWISTON, MAINE.
SECTION N, GRAVE 146.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: FAMILY.
