Military Records: 1st Lt. Thomas Howard Harrel, Jr., 1969, Winn Parish, LA
Submitted by Greggory E. Davies, 120 Ted Price Lane, Winnfield, LA 71483
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From: August 14, 1969 Winn Parish Enterprise News-American

Bronze Star Awarded Harrel For Courage

First Lt. Thomas Howard Harrel, Jr. of Winnfield had been presented the Bronze
Star for "his aggressive leadership, professional courage, and dedication to
duty in the face of great personal danger."

He arrived home last week following hospitalization in Vietnam and San Diego,
California.

Harrel was presented the medal along with a citation which reads: "For
meritorious service while serving as executive officer, Company M, Third
Battalion, Seventh Marines, First Marine Division, FMF in connection with
operations against aggressive communist (Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army)
forces in the Republic of Vietnam from 22 December 1968 to 16 June 1969.

"Throughout this period 1st Lt. Harrel displayed exceptional professional
skill, resourcefulness, and leadership in the performance of his myriad and
demanding duties as executive officer.  Upon joining his unit, he quickly
established a reputation for exemplary leadership, initiative and courage
while performing his duties as executive officer.

"Participating in numerous combat patrols, this dynamic Marine fearlessly
exposed himself to enemy fire on countless occasions while aggressively
closing with the enemy.  Exceptionally cool and aggressive under fire, he was
always the first to maneuver his company to a vantage point and aggressively
exploit contact with the enemy.

"On 16 June 1969, while in a night defensive position, 1st Lt. Harrel was
seriously injured.  Disregarding his own serious wounds, his silent courage
served as an inspiration to all who observed him.  By his aggressive
leadership, professional knowledge, sustained courage, and dedication to duty
in the face of great personal danger, 1st Lt. Harrel upheld the highest
traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

"First Lt. Harrel is authorized to wear the Combat "V".

"For the President, 

"H. Nickerson, Jr.,
"Lt. General,
"U. S. Marine Corps
"Commanding General, III Marine Amphibious Force"