Eugene Ashley Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eugene Ashley Jr.
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| Born | October 12, 1930 Wilmington, North Carolina, United States |
| Died | February 7, 1968 (aged 37) Lang Vei, Quang Tri Province, Vietnam |
| Buried |
Rockfish Memorial Park, Fayetteville, North Carolina
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1950–1968 |
| Rank | Sergeant First Class |
| Unit | Company C, 5th Special Forces Group 1st Special Forces |
| Battles/wars | Korean War Vietnam War
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| Awards | Medal of Honor Purple Heart |
Eugene Ashley Jr. (born October 12, 1930 – died February 7, 1968) was a brave soldier in the United States Army Special Forces. He received America's highest military award, the Medal of Honor, for his amazing courage during the Vietnam War.
Ashley joined the Army in 1950 and fought in the Korean War. Later, he was sent to Vietnam. There, he became a hero during a big battle called the Battle of Lang Vei. He led his team to try and rescue American soldiers who were surrounded by enemy tanks and troops. He tried five times, showing incredible bravery. On his fifth attempt, he was badly hurt by an enemy shell. He sadly passed away from his injuries. Because of his heroic actions, he was given the Medal of Honor after he died.
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Early Life and Army Service
Eugene Ashley Jr. was born on October 12, 1930, in Wilmington, North Carolina. His parents were Eugene Ashley Sr. and Cornelia Ashley. He also had a sister named Gertrude.
When he was young, his family moved to New York City. There, Eugene Jr. went to Alexander Hamilton High School. In December 1950, he joined the United States Army from New York City.
Serving in Two Wars
After joining the Army, Ashley served in the Korean War. This war took place from 1950 to 1953. Later, he became a sergeant first class in the 5th Special Forces Group. This group is part of the Army's special forces, known for their tough training and important missions.
In 1968, he was serving in the Vietnam War. This was another major conflict where American soldiers were involved.
Heroism at Lang Vei
On February 6, 1968, Sergeant First Class Ashley was part of the Battle of Lang Vei in Vietnam. During this battle, North Vietnamese soldiers and tanks had surrounded American troops.
Leading the Rescue Mission
Sergeant Ashley bravely led a group of soldiers to try and rescue the trapped Americans. He led several attacks against the enemy forces. Each time, he faced great danger.
He made five attempts to reach the surrounded soldiers. On his fifth and final attempt, he was severely wounded by an enemy shell. He later died from his injuries.
Medal of Honor
For his incredible courage and leadership during the Battle of Lang Vei, Eugene Ashley Jr. was awarded the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award a soldier can receive in the United States military. He received it after he died, as a way to honor his sacrifice.
Legacy
Eugene Ashley Jr.'s body was brought back to the United States. He was buried in Rockfish Memorial Park in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
To remember his bravery, Eugene Ashley High School in Wilmington, North Carolina, was named after him.
See also
