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 Private First Class Carl Hankerson (ASN: RA-11654648), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile force: Private First Class Hankerson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 17 December 1967 in Dak To, Republic of South Vietnam while serving as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 173d Support Battalion (Airborne). While performing duties as wireman for the brigade supply office, Private Hankerson observed a pre-rigged pallet load of 4.2 inch mortar ammunition burning on a Chinook pad pickup area approximately six hundred meters from his location. With complete disregard for his safety, he drove to the fiercely burning pallet of ammunition and fought the fire at close range with a hand fire extinguisher. His actions checked and retarded the flames enough so that the ammunition did not explode. Thus the fire was able to be completely extinguished by the area fire truck. Furthermore, he contributed greatly to averting the possible loss of life and damage of surrounding aircraft and equipment. Private Hankerson’s heroism and voluntary risk of his own life were in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Awards Received