Navy Federal Credit Union

On the date that he earned the Navy Cross, Billie Holmes was part of an 18-man reconnaissance patrol under Marine Gunnery Sergeant Jimmie E. Howard, that engaged in enemy in actions that earned Howard the Medal of Honor, and earned Holmes and three of his comrades the Navy Cross. The remaining men were awarded Silver Stars netting the 18-man patrol a combined total of 1 Medal of Honor, 4 Navy Crosses, 13 Silver Stars, and 18 Purple Hearts–perhaps making them the Most Decorated squad-size unit in Marine Corps history.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Hospitalman Third Class

    Batallion:

    1st Force Reconnaissance Battalion

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.) FMF

    Action Date:

    June 15 – 16, 1966

    Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Hospitalman Third Class Billie Don Holmes (NSN: 6848245), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism on the night of 15 – 16 June 1966 as a Medical Corpsman, Company C, First Force Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam. Serving with a platoon which was attacked by a determined and well-trained North Vietnamese battalion after the platoon had established an observation post deep within Viet Cong-controlled territory, Petty Officer Holmes, in the face of the intense enemy fire, left the meager cover of his position on the perimeter to render aid to the wounded. Oblivious to the shouted warnings of his Platoon Leader to take cover, he repeatedly exposed himself to the hostile fire by moving from one wounded man to the next, administering emergency treatment. On two separate occasions when there were enemy grenades exploding, he covered the body of his wounded companion with his own to prevent further injury. Although twice painfully wounded, he continued giving aid and comfort to the wounded throughout the night and morning. Petty Officer Holmes’ outstanding professional skill, extraordinary heroism, and deep concern for his comrades were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.