Charles Elbert Long

The database page for Charles Elbert Long

5 Sep 2003 Charles was our brother and a soldier. He is still sadly missed and never will be forgotten. Linda, Tom and Richard. His Army Commendation Medal with "V" device for May 12 1969 was awarded posthumously. The Citation reads "For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: On this date, Specialist Four Long was serving as a rifleman with his unit on a reconnaissance in force operation in the vicinity of Fire Support Base Holiday Inn. After establishing a daylight ambush position and advantageous observation posts, Specialist Four Long observed movement to his front and tactically waited for the insurgent force to enter the kill zone. When his claymore mine failed to detonate, Specialist Four Long realized that the approaching aggressors threatened the security of his adjacent comrades and dauntlessly stood on his feet as he placed a devastating barrage of suppressive fire on the enemy with his personal weapon. Killing one insurgent and causing the remainder to flee, he enabled his companions to assume strategic positions. His courageous initiative and selfless concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers significantly contributed to the successful outcome of the encounter and prevented several possible friendly casualties. Specialist Four Long's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army."

A Note from The Virtual Wall B Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, lost five men while conducting a recon mission near Lai Khe on 4 September 1969: 2LT William M Lyons, Fort Lee NJ SGT Walter E Hutchinson, Durand MI SP4 Larry D Fralicks, Cedar Hill TX SP4 Charles E Long, Harrisburg PA SP4 Billy D Weitzel, Albert Lea MN

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With all respect
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Channing Prothro, former CAP Marine
Last updated 08/10/2009