Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Staff Sergeant Horace Shockley, Jr. (ASN: RA-54173909), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile force: Staff Sergeant Shockley distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 14 August 1967 near Dak To, Republic of Vietnam, while serving as a member of Battery A, 3d Battalion, 319th Artillery. Battery A was firing a landing zone preparation mission when a CH-47 helicopter passed low and very close to the rear of number four gun. The turbulence caused by the rotor blades blew sparks from the muzzle flash of the gun into the ammunition ready rack and ignited the exposed powder bags. These burning bags were blown into the ammunition bunker, causing the sandbag walls, ammunition containers and wooden floor and ceiling to catch fire immediately. An alarm was spread throughout the fire support base which contained, in addition to the two artillery batteries, the headquarters elements of the 1st Battalion and 4th Battalion, 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). Without hesitation and at the risk of his life, Sergeant Shockley began moving in and about the bunker and ready rack, pouring water out of five gallon cans upon the ammunition and bunker. The heat of the fire had caused the rounds to reach such a temperature that the water evaporated upon contact with the ammunition. During the next crucial moments, Sergeant Shockley continued pouring water on the burning bunker, throwing burning containers and sandbags out of the danger area and at times carrying fire-scorched artillery rounds to the far side of the parapet. Sergeant Shockley’s heroic actions saved many lives, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Awards Received