Michael JOHN Thirkettle

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Michael John Thirkettle (6766414), Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam, on 26 November 1967. On that date, Company A was conducting a combat patrol in the vicinity of Con Thien when it suddenly received a heavy volume of small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire from a well-camouflaged North Vietnamese Army force. In the initial moments of the fire fight, the Marines sustained several casualties and were pinned down. After maneuvering across the fire-swept terrain, Petty Officer Thirkettle administered first aid to two of the casualties and then moved to the side of a wounded man who lay in an area dangerously exposed to the hostile fire. Placing himself between the enemy position and the wounded Marine, he began to administer medical treatment when he, himself, was wounded in the leg. Ignoring his painful injury, Petty Officer Thirkettle continued to minister to the Marine’s wounds. When his patient was wounded a second time, and Petty Officer Thirkettle received two additional wounds, the latter placed his body over the wounded Marine and shielded him from the murderous enemy fire. Although Petty Officer Thirkettle succumbed to his wounds, his heroic and selfless actions saved the life of his comrade and were an inspiration to all who observed him. By his courage, exceptional professionalism, and unwavering devotion to duty, he upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.