The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Major [then Second Lieutenant] Warren Henry Brazas, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while serving at the Forward Command Post of the NINTH Marine Regiment at Landing Zone WINCHESTER during Operation TROUSDALE. On 17 September 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam, Major Brazas went to the rescue of injured Marines in a helicopter crash while being at great risk for his own safety. While making an approach to the Regimental Landing Zone, a Command helicopter lost power and veered off to the side with its rotor blades striking the trees and subsequently crashing into a deep ravine. Major Brazas, without regard for his own safety, went through the unit perimeter, which was mined, and rapidly moved to the crash site. Upon reaching the burning helicopter, Major Brazas conducted the rescue operations of the injured personnel oblivious to the threat of exploding fuel and ordnance. Among the more severe injured was the Commanding General of Task Force HOTEL, who was carried by stretcher to the Landing Zone for emergency medical evacuation. Major Brazas was the only Marine to continuously remain with the injured officer from the crash site to the evacuation site. While the conditions of extreme heat, mountainous terrain, and heavy foliage exhausted many of the rescue party, Major Brazas maintained the perseverance necessary for a successful life-saving mission. By his steadfast effort to reach the injured Marines and the exceptional measures to preserve life, Major Brazas undoubtedly saved numerous lives; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.