Silver Star

Awarded posthumously for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospital Corpsman Second Class John E. Schon (NSN: 9149203), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company L, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, on 26 May 1967, during Operation UNION II against North Vietnamese Army forces in the Republic of Vietnam. When the Marines of Company L were landed by helicopters to secure the landing zone for the remainder of the battalion, they were immediately subjected to an intense barrage of automatic weapons, recoilless rifle, and mortar fire from a well-entrenched enemy force, estimated to be of battalion size. The withering fire caused many casualties, and scarcity of cover made it extremely hazardous to extract the wounded Marines from the exposed positions in which they lay. Disregarding his own safety, Petty Officer Schon repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy barrage in order to render vital first aid to the injured Marines and to assist with their evacuation for further medical treatment. He courageously continued his actions until him, himself, was mortally wounded. By his selfless efforts and inspiring devotion to duty, Petty Officer Schon was responsible for saving the lives of many Marines. His heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Action Date: 26-May-67
Service: Navy
Rank: Hospital Corpsman Second Class
Company: Corpsman (Attached), Company L
Battalion: 3d Battalion
Regiment: 5th Marines
Division: 1st Marine Division

Schon, John Edward, HM2