22 Comments
User's avatar
Sika57's avatar

Great story! Kettles probably didn't care that it took 50 years to get the medal, like all MOH recipients the metal belonged to all. Thanks Tara for these stories of those who make America great!!!

Expand full comment
Will Southcombe's avatar

Unbelievable! If this was proposed as a movie plot it would be ridiculed as: too fantastic to believe, even on a screen. And modest (as always, right?) - All 74 were Heroes. But even so, Kettles stands out - going back alone, no cover, far overweight. His guardian angel was busy that day! Thank you, Tara Ross, for keeping these memories alive.

Expand full comment
Samuel Vanderburg's avatar

“It belongs to them. Not to me. I was simply a leader of the pack.” But he was the one who hop scotched down a creek bed to get airborne with a damaged, leaking Huey… Even in his humility he deserved the recognition. I am glad he was finally recognized. But, I think he gave great honor to his men. Thanks, Tara!

Expand full comment
Johnny Baker Jr. MLA's avatar

The men who get to live to wear the Medal always do it for the others, even if it takes 50 years to get to wear it. All the Vietnam 🚁 pilots did there first round of training at Ft. Wolters near Mineral Wells, TX. The camp surrounds our family farm.

Expand full comment
Bruce Barlond's avatar

Over and over again he risked his all to save others!

Thank you, Tara, for this story of heroism under fire!

Expand full comment
Patty's avatar

Another fantastic tale of our outstanding military leadership and courage. Kettles is one of so many who only thought about his wounded comrades. Humility is part of the DNA. Always giving credit to others who served honorably. Thank you for sharing these profiles in courage that wouldn’t otherwise be known, Tara.

Expand full comment
Justin. Hart's avatar

A wonderful story of a 2nd generation son of the greatest generation . Being afraid was not in his blood just courage . Charles Kettles was not just a lifeline to the 8 soldiers he went back for he was their savior . Like all those who came before him he was a humble , thankful , MOH recipient who recognized all the men who served with him as the REAL HEROES and he was just doing what any of them would have done. Great story Tara of a great man, thank you .

Expand full comment
Wally Firkins's avatar

Charles Kettle, the son of a two war pilot inherited the flying gene and served in two wars himself. His bravery in action was undeniable as he led his helicopter squadron into the thick of the action multiple times. His final flight on that day saved lives that were expected to be lost.

Typical of so many MOH honorees, Mr. Kettle believes that the award belongs to all who were part of the battle but it was his efforts that allowed the final eight soldiers to evacuate to safety. God bless Charles Kettle and God bless all who have served or currently serve this great nation. Thank you Tara for another MOH story this week.

Expand full comment
Charlie Kendall's avatar

Thank you Charles Kettle for putting your flying DNA to work for your brothers. What a story!

Expand full comment
Belinda's avatar

Just wow! These heroic stories always get me, but this one is unforgettable. Maybe because I was just a child during those Vietnam years, really did not know or understand what was going on but would catch some news from radio or tv- I just knew it was a terrible situation. An amazing story, you are such a wonderful historian and storyteller Tara! 🇺🇸

Expand full comment
Tara Ross's avatar

Thank you! ❤️

Expand full comment
Joe's avatar

Sometimes, when I read these stories of bravery beyond understanding, all I can say is “wow” . . . . .

Expand full comment
glenna.p's avatar

Thanks, Tara, for sharing this amazing account. You made it sing and our hearts are thankful for what he did!

Expand full comment
Tara Ross's avatar

Thank you! ❤️

Expand full comment
Jody's avatar

Good morning Tara Ross!💯🇱🇷🏴‍☠️❤️

Expand full comment
Jim Groth's avatar

A Hero amongst Men

Expand full comment
James M Airesman's avatar

Thank you, Tara.

Expand full comment
Tv's avatar

🇺🇲 With the selflessness that is typical of those who've earned the MoH, Charles Kettles reminds us, that all involved shared this honor. 🎖

Thank you for sharing the Lieutenant Colonel's story, TR! 🇺🇸

Expand full comment