Medal of Honor Monday: Army Sgt. John Baca
Published February 10, 2025 at 12:42 PM
Army Sgt. John Baca was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. On February 10, 1968, Baca’s platoon was ambushed near Song Be, South Vietnam. Baca was wounded in the leg and chest, but he continued to fight, killing several enemy soldiers. When his comrades were running low on ammunition, Baca crawled through enemy fire to resupply them.
Baca’s actions saved the lives of his fellow soldiers and helped to turn the tide of the battle. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1971.
Baca was born in Trinidad, Colorado, in 1946. He enlisted in the Army in 1966 and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He was wounded four times during his service.
After the war, Baca worked as a police officer and a private investigator. He also wrote a book about his experiences in Vietnam, “Medal of Honor: A Journey of Courage and Sacrifice.”
Baca died in 2016 at the age of 69. He is survived by his wife, three children, and seven grandchildren.
Baca’s Medal of Honor citation reads:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sergeant Baca distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While participating in a reconnaissance patrol near Song Be, Republic of Vietnam, on February 10, 1968, Sergeant Baca’s unit came under heavy enemy fire. Although painfully wounded by fragments from an exploding enemy grenade, Sergeant Baca refused medical attention and continued to fire upon the advancing enemy. When his comrades’ ammunition was running low, Sergeant Baca crawled through a hail of enemy bullets to resupply them. As darkness approached and friendly supporting elements were moving to their relief, Sergeant Baca’s platoon was ordered to withdraw. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Baca volunteered to stay behind to cover the withdrawal of his comrades. Armed only with a rifle and grenades, he stood his ground and engaged the enemy until they were driven back. Sergeant Baca’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty saved the lives of several of his comrades and inspired the entire platoon to fight on.”
Baca was a true American hero. His courage and selflessness saved the lives of his fellow soldiers and helped to ensure the success of their mission. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Medal of Honor Monday: Army Sgt. John Baca
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