Charles Rogers Honored with Medal of Honor

Charles Rogers Medal Of Honor Recipient

Charles Rogers Posthumously Awarded Medal of Honor for Heroism in Vietnam War

Washington, D.C. — In a solemn ceremony at the White House today, President [Current U.S. President] posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration, to Captain Charles Rogers for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. Rogers, who passed away in 1990, was recognized for his selfless actions on November 1, 1968, when he risked his life to save his fellow soldiers during a fierce enemy assault.

Captain Rogers, a native of Claremont, West Virginia, served as a commander in the U.S. Army’s 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. On that fateful day, his unit was ambushed by a well-entrenched North Vietnamese force in the Tay Ninh Province. Despite being severely outnumbered and under heavy fire, Rogers displayed unparalleled courage and leadership.

According to eyewitness accounts and official military records, Rogers repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to direct his troops and call in artillery support. When his unit’s position was overrun, he single-handedly charged enemy bunkers, eliminating multiple hostile fighters and allowing his men to regroup. Despite sustaining serious injuries, Rogers refused medical attention until all his soldiers were safe.

'Captain Rogers’ actions that day were nothing short of extraordinary,' said Secretary of Defense [Current Secretary of Defense] during the ceremony. 'His bravery under fire and unwavering commitment to his men embody the highest ideals of the United States Armed Forces.'

Rogers’ family, including his children and grandchildren, attended the ceremony to accept the medal on his behalf. His son, James Rogers, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, 'My father was a humble man who never sought the spotlight. He always said he was just doing his job. But to us, and to the men he saved, he was a hero in every sense of the word.'

The Medal of Honor award comes after a years-long review of Rogers’ actions, initiated by veterans and historians who believed his heroism had not been fully recognized. The review culminated in a bipartisan effort in Congress to approve the award, which was signed into law earlier this year.

Captain Rogers’ legacy extends beyond his military service. After retiring from the Army in 1984, he dedicated his life to mentoring young veterans and advocating for improved mental health services for those returning from combat. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the enduring impact of their courage.

The Medal of Honor, first established in 1861, has been awarded to fewer than 3,600 individuals. Charles Rogers now joins the ranks of this elite group, forever enshrined in the annals of American military history.

As the nation reflects on his heroism, Rogers’ story continues to inspire new generations of soldiers and civilians alike, reminding us all of the power of selflessness and valor in the face of adversity.

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Charles Rogers Honored with Medal of Honor

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