Living History of Medal of Honor Recipient Roy Benavidez
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Raoul "Roy" Benavidez's Military Career Highlights
- Started career in the Texas Army National Guard during the Korean War.
- Became an advisor to an ARVN infantry regiment in South Vietnam.
- Overcame paralysis from a landmine incident and walked again after seven months.
- Made three parachute jumps in one day and returned to Vietnam.
- Rescued a wounded friend behind enemy lines using a McGuire rig.
- Volunteered to rescue a trapped team and directed a rescue helicopter to a nearby clearing.
Heroic Actions of Benevidez in Vietnam
- Benevidez ran 75 meters under heavy enemy fire to provide aid to wounded team members.
- Despite his own injuries, he carried or dragged the wounded to the safety of an extraction helicopter.
- He recovered the fallen sergeant's body and secured classified documents.
- After the helicopter crashed, Benevidez fought his way back to the wreckage to free the wounded and form a defensive perimeter.
- He directed air strikes to create a safe landing zone for another rescue attempt.
- Benevidez endured six hours of intense combat, sustaining multiple gunshot wounds and other injuries.
A Proud American and Green Beret's Perspective on Unity and Patriotism
- Working together and never letting each other down.
- Addressing an unasked question about whether they would do it again.
- Expressing unwavering commitment despite any amount of money or material possessions.
- Emphasizing the importance of looking past skin color and focusing on being Americans.
Extraordinary Acts of Heroism and Dedication to Duty
- Served in the Texas Army National Guard during the Korean War.
- Became an advisor to an ARVN infantry regiment in South Vietnam.
- Overcame paralysis from a landmine incident and regained the ability to walk.
- Made three parachute jumps in one day and returned to Vietnam.
- Rescued a wounded friend behind enemy lines using a McGuire rig.