Mike & H&S Companies 

Third Battalion, Fifth Marines

Veterans of the Vietnam War

Michael R. Kempel    

Silver Star

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a corpsman with Company M, 3^rd Battalion, 5^th Marines, 1^st Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist forces in the Republic of Vietnam.  On the afternoon of 27 August 1970, HM2 Michael R. Kempel was a member of Company M patrolling just north of Liberty Bridge in Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his platoon unknowingly entered an enemy minefield, the point marine stepped on a hidden mine. The resulting explosion critically wounded the point marine and seriously wounded several other marines.  With total disregard for his safety, knowing there were other mines in the vicinity, HM2 Kempel moved to the front of the platoon to provide aid to the wounded marines. As he neared the seriously wounded point marine, HM2 Kempel stepped on another hidden mine, suffering multiple critical wounds from the explosion. Ignoring his wounds, HM2 Kempel crawled to the point marine and attempted to render medical aid until he succumbed to his wounds. His resolute effort throughout the engagement was a source of inspiration to all who observed him. By his outstanding professional skill, fortitude in the face of enemy fire, and unfaltering dedication to duty, HM2 Kempel’s actions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service.

See actual citation below:

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