Daniel John Shea

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Private First Class Shea, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, distinguished himself while serving as a medical aidman with Company C, 3d Battalion, during a combat patrol mission. As the lead platoon of the company was crossing a rice paddy, a large enemy force in ambush positions opened fire with mortars, grenades and automatic weapons. Under heavy crossfire from 3 sides, the platoon withdrew to a small island in the paddy to establish a defensive perimeter. Private First Class Shea, seeing that a number of his comrades had fallen in the initial hail of fire, dashed from the defensive position to assist the wounded. With complete disregard for his safety and braving the intense hostile fire sweeping the open rice paddy, Private First Class Shea made 4 trips to tend wounded soldiers and to carry them to the safety of the platoon position. Seeing a fifth wounded comrade directly in front of one of the enemy strong points, Private First Class Shea ran to his assistance. As he reached the wounded man, Private First Class Shea was grievously wounded. Disregarding his welfare, Private First Class Shea tended his wounded comrade and began to move him back to the safety of the defensive perimeter. As he neared the platoon position, Private First Class Shea was mortally wounded by a burst of enemy fire. By his heroic actions Private First Class Shea saved the lives of several of his fellow soldiers. Private First Class Shea's gallantry in action at the cost of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.