Gary Michael Rose received the award for his service as a medic during the war, when he repeatedly risked his life by running into the line of fire to provide emergency medical treatment to his fellow soldiers. At one point, he reportedly shielded an injured soldier with his own body to keep him from harm.
{mosads}Rose is believed to have aided and saved around 60 to 70 men who were participating in the 1970 Operation Tailwind, a “harrowing” four day mission that aimed to prevent the North Vietnamese from transporting weapons through the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
The president described how Rose continued to save many men despite being seriously injured after shrapnel “left a gaping hole in Mike’s foot.”
“To Mike and all the service members who fought in that battle, you’ve earned the eternal gratitude of the entire American nation,” Trump told the room, which included Vice President Pence, Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin, national security adviser H.R. McMaster and others.
“Your devotion to your country inspires us all,” Trump said.
In 1971, Rose was also awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the nation’s second highest medal for valor.
Trump previously has bestowed the award to James McCloughan, who also served as a Vietnam War medic.