Marine Corps Vietnam Tankers Historical Foundation©

Marine Corps Vietnam-era Tankers and Ontosmen Have Made History. 

Your Historical Foundation is Making it Known.

CORPORAL JOHN C. CHAMBERS US MARINE CORPS
For service as set forth in the following:

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John C. Chambers, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Tank Commander with Company A Third Tank Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam, on 19 May 1967. During Operation HICKORY in Quang Tri Province, Corporal Chambers' tank was attached to Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, when the unit came under an intense enemy rocket and mortar attack. In the ensuing battle, his tank was hit by hostile fire, wounding al/ crew members and setting the vehicle ablaze. Displaying exceptional presence of mind and leadership, he evacuated his crew and was assured that they had received first aid before allowing treatment of his own wounds. Despite the explosions from .50 caliber rounds board his flaming tank, Corporal Chambers re-entered the vehicle, located a fire extinguisher and directed an infantryman in bringing the fire under control. Assisted by a companion, he then proceeded to deliver effective fire against the enemy, alternately firing the .30 and .50 caliber machine guns and the 90-mm. cannon. Although the heat and smoke within the tank twice forced him to leave to get fresh air, he resolutely returned and aggressively continued to fire on the enemy until he was evacuated. Prior to his medical evacuation, Corporal Chambers instructed an infantryman in the operation of the tank's machine guns, ensuring that the weapons could be used effectively in his absence. His heroic actions and determined fighting spirit inspired his fellow Marines and contributed significantly in repulsing the enemy attack. By his superior leadership, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Chambers upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.