Medal of Honor
EVANS, RODNEY J.
Company
D, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)
18
July 1969
Entered
service at:
Born:
17 July 1948,
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the
risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Evans distinguished
himself by extraordinary heroism while serving as a squad leader in a
reconnaissance sweep through heavy vegetation to reconnoiter a strong enemy
position. As the force approached a well-defined trail, the platoon scout
warned that the trail was booby-trapped. Sgt. Evans led his squad on a route
parallel to the trail. The force had started to move forward when a nearby
squad was hit by the blast of a concealed mine. Looking to his right Sgt. Evans
saw a second enemy device. With complete disregard for his safety he shouted a
warning to his men, dived to the ground and crawled toward the mine. Just as he
reached it an enemy soldier detonated the explosive and Sgt. Evans absorbed the
full impact with his body. His gallant and selfless action saved his comrades
from probable death or injury and served as an inspiration to his entire unit.
Sgt. Evans' 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