Biography

Colonel Robert L. Howard, a Medal of Honor recipient, is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his service against an armed enemy of the United States and for service within the Ranger Community. He distinguished himself under hostile fire numerous times, earning the Medal of Honor, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Colonel Howard then a Sergeant First Class, distinguished himself while serving as platoon sergeant of an American- Vietnamese platoon which was on a mission to rescue a missing American soldier in enemy controlled territory in the Republic of Vietnam. The platoon had left its helicopter landing zone and was moving out on its mission when it was attacked by an estimated two-company force. During the initial engagement,Colonel Howard was wounded and his weapon destroyed by a grenade explosion. Colonel Howard saw that his platoon leader had been wounded seriously and was exposed to fire. Although unable to walk, and weaponless, Colonel Howard unhesitatingly crawled through a hail of fire to retrieve his wounded leader. As Colonel Howard was administering first aid and removing the officer's equipment, an enemy bullet struck one of the ammunition pouches on the lieutenant's belt, detonating several magazines of ammunition. Colonel Howard momentarily sought cover and then realized that he must rejoin his platoon, which had been disorganized by the enemy attack. Again he started to drag the seriously wounded officer toward the platoon area. Through his outstanding example of indomitable courage and bravery, Colonel Howard was able to rally the platoon into an organized defense force. With complete disregard for his safety, Colonel Howard crawled from position to position, administering first aid to the wounded, giving encouragement to the defenders and directing their fire on the encircling enemy. For over three and one-half hours Colonel Howard's small force and supporting aircraft successfully repulsed enemy attacks and finally were in sufficient control to permit the landing of rescue helicopters. Colonel Howard personally supervised the loading of his men and did not leave the bullet-swept landing zone until all were aboard safely. Colonel Howard's gallantry in action, his complete devotion to the welfare of his men at the risk of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army. In addition, Colonel Howard earned the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star and eight Purple Hearts. Serving as Company Commander of three different companies in the Second Ranger Battalion, Colonel Howard performed in a superior manner. Colonel Howard approached every situation with a determination not only to succeed, but to excel.