Glen Thomas Lunsford

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Glen Thomas Lunsford (2101197), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Platoon Right Guide with Company D, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 3 February 1968. Upon the discovery of a large cave complex, at Phu Son (2), Sergeant Lunsford volunteered to accompany a reactionary force to destroy the tunnels. Locating several camouflaged underwater entrances to the cave, he placed a Marine near each of them to prevent the Viet Cong’s escape. Unable to use explosives because of the necessity of obtaining prisoners, he supervised the excavation of an above ground entrance. Upon completing the new entrance, he threw a tear gas grenade into the opening, routing three Viet Cong who broke from the cave throwing grenades and were killed. Armed only with a pistol and a flashlight, he entered the tunnel and moved along a narrow passageway until he discovered a large room. Observing two Viet Cong trying to escape through an underwater passageway, he killed one and captured the other. Interrogation of the prisoner revealed that there were numerous enemy soldiers still in the cave complex. Realizing that the enemy was aware of the tunnel being searched and confined in a small area, Sergeant Lunsford nevertheless reentered the tunnel. As he neared a sharp bend in the tunnel, a Viet Cong, who was concealed around a corner, tossed a grenade which wounded him in both legs. Although painfully wounded, Sergeant Lunsford lunged forward and captured the Viet Cong as he attempted to escape. After bringing his prisoner to the top, he fearlessly reentered the tunnel with several comrades and searched the numerous small rooms and tunnels. His diligent efforts resulted in the capture of several weapons, supplies and valuable intelligence information. Sergeant Lunsford reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Glen Thomas Lunsford (2101197), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 6, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Lunsford upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.