John Loda Haines

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John Loda Haines (US54959324), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry, 2d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Haines distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 March 1968 as medical aidman for an infantry platoon conducting a sweep and secure mission near Hoc Mon. As his unit moved into a dense wood line, it was subjected to intense small arms, automatic weapons, and anti-tank rocket fire from an enemy force of unknown size. Five members of his platoon were seriously wounded by the initial burst of savage hostile fire. Fearlessly exposing himself to the withering fusillade, Specialist Haines raced forward to assist his stricken comrades. With bullets striking all around him, he courageously moved from one casualty to another, administering first aid. Specialist Haines was hit while treating one of the soldiers, but disregarded his wound and continued his lifesaving mission. Observing his platoon sergeant severely wounded and lying in an open area raked by enemy machine gun fire, he rushed to the man and began attending him. Specialist Haines was instantly killed by the machine gun fire while applying the last bandage to his fallen comrade. His gallant and determined actions in close combat saved the lives of several fellow soldiers. Specialist Four Haines’ extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, 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 United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1839 (May 22, 1967)