John Lee Levitow
Era | Vietnam War |
---|---|
Branch | U.S. Air Force |
Rank | Staff Sergeant |
Military Decorations | Medal of Honor |
Wall | B |
Wall Side | 2 |
Row | 1 |
Plaque Number | 5 |
As loadmaster on an AC-47 gunship on a mission near Long Binh Army Post, on the night of February 24, 1969 John's aircraft was hit by enemy ground fire which penetrated the plane's skin wounding half the crew and causing the aircraft to go out of control. As the AC-47 was buffeted about, it released and activated an aerial flare within the airplane. Though badly and painfully wounded, he dragged himself forward, fell on the smoking flare and then hurled it from the aircraft just before it ignited. His quick and decisive action at the risk of his own life saved the airplane and the lives of his comrades.
Flew The AC-47 "Spooky" Gunship