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297 Appendix A. Navy Cross Citation Corporal John E. Rusth United States Marine Corps For service as set forth in the following citation: The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John E. Rusth, Corporal [then Lance Corporal], United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 May 1967. During Operation union, Corporal Rusth was moving with the lead elements of his company, as they secured the crest of Hill 110 in Suoi Cho Valley, advancing against an estimated battalion of North Vietnamese Army regulars. Accompanied by other elements of his company, he was leading his fire team to secure the military crest on the northeastern slope, when they came under intense enemy fire from positions concealed in hedgerows, tree lines and cane fields at the base of the hill, sustaining numerous casualties. Immediately assessing the situation, Corporal Rusth moved among the wounded to ensure that all had received proper care, while he steadfastly remained exposed to hostile fire on the bare hillside. He displayed outstanding leadership, courage, and tactical skill, as he aggressively led his men in the grenade and bayonet assault down the hill against the North Vietnamese positions, routing the enemy and forcing it to flee to alternate ground. Corporal Rusth, completely disregarding his own safety, fearlessly moved down the hillside on nine occasions to assist casualties up the slope to safety. Although painfully wounded in his thigh from an enemy round when he began his tenth trip to rescue a wounded Marine, he quickly bound his injury and, displaying exceptional physical stamina and courage, assisted the stricken man to safety before Appendices: 298 collapsing from the effects of his painful wound and heat exhaustion. By his prompt and courageous action, he was instrumental in saving several Marines from further injury or possible death and contributed significantly to the successful accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his bold initiative and unswerving dedication to duty at great personal risk, Corporal Rusth inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. ...

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