Jose L. Ortiz

For gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, Staff Sergeant Ortiz distinguished himself while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company B, 3d Battalion, 12th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. On 12 March 1969, Sergeant Ortiz’s company and a sister element were establishing and fortifying the perimeter of Landing Zone Swift when they were subjected to intense enemy automatic weapons and mortar fire. Immediately, Sergeant Ortiz reorganized his scattered platoon, and repeatedly exposing himself to the enemy fire, he moved from position to position reestablishing the perimeter and making sure the wounded were treated. Spotting two wounded members of his platoon exposed to the enemy fire. Sergeant Ortiz maneuvered to their position, and carried them to a protected location. Staff Sergeant Ortiz’s courageous actions, outstanding leadership, and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.