CORPORAL

THOMAS C. WHEELER

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Squad Leader with Company M, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 30 April 1967. Corporal Wheeler’s company (-) was advancing to secure Hill 881 South in the first Battle of Khe Sanh when a numerically superior enemy force attacked and inflicted heavy casualties on his platoon. The Platoon Leader was killed and in the chaos of battle, Corporal Wheeler assumed command and rallied the remaining platoon members. He sustained a severe wound and was medevaced to a bomb crater for treatment and concealment. After refusing medical aid, Corporal Wheeler concluded that the wounded Marines in the crater were becoming a primary enemy target. Unable to walk, he crawled from the crater to a forward attack position, where he single-handedly killed six or more enemy soldiers and halted numerous enemy attacks against his wounded comrades. In the ensuing battle, Corporal Wheeler killed 15 to 20 more enemy personnel and ensured the safety of the Marines and Corpsmen in the crater. Repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire, he relentlessly attacked the enemy from multiple sites, thus confusing them as to his position and the diminished capability of his platoon. Although the pain from his wound was intense, and despite substantial blood loss, Corporal Wheeler again refused medical aid. Seeing the ferocity with which he fought inspired his platoon to rally and repulse multiple attacks until the enemy force was defeated. By his steadfast resolve, courageous fighting spirit, aggressive and confident leadership, and unwavering dedication to duty, Corporal Wheeler reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

For the President,

Donald C. Winter

Secretary of the Navy