Born: September 16, 1937
War: Vietnam
Rank: First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
Location of Action: Near Da Nang
Date of Action: July 12, 1965
Official Medal of Honor Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life
above and beyond the call of duty. The reconnaissance patrol led by 1st Lt. Reasoner
had deeply penetrated heavily controlled enemy territory when it came under extremely
heavy fire from an estimated 50 to 100 Viet Cong insurgents.
Accompanying the advance party and the point that consisted of 5 men, he immediately
deployed his men for an assault after the Viet Cong had opened fire from numerous
concealed positions. Boldly shouting encouragement, and virtually isolated from
the main body, he organized a base of fire for an assault on the enemy positions.
The slashing fury of the Viet Cong machinegun and automatic weapons fire made it
impossible for the main body to move forward.
Repeatedly exposing himself to the devastating attack he skillfully provided
covering fire, killing at least 2 Viet Cong and effectively silencing an automatic
weapons position in a valiant attempt to effect evacuation of a wounded man. As
casualties began to mount his radio operator was wounded and 1st Lt. Reasoner immediately
moved to his side and tended his wounds. When the radio operator was hit a second time
while attempting to reach a covered position, 1st Lt. Reasoner courageously running
to his aid through the grazing machinegun fire fell mortally wounded.
His indomitable fighting spirit, valiant leadership and unflinching devotion to
duty provided the inspiration that was to enable the patrol to complete its
mission without further casualties. In the face of almost certain death he
gallantly gave his life in the service of his country. His actions upheld
the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service.
FRANK S. REASONER
