Howard V. Lee facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Howard Vincent Lee
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Howard V. Lee, Medal of Honor recipient
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| Born | August 1, 1933 New York City, New York |
| Died | March 23, 2019 (aged 85) Virginia Beach, Virginia |
| Place of burial |
Colonial Grove Memorial Park, Virginia Beach, Virginia
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| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1955-1975 |
| Rank |  Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit | 2nd Battalion 4th Marines |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor Bronze Star with valor device(2) Purple Heart |
Howard Vincent Lee was a brave officer in the United States Marine Corps. He was born on August 1, 1933, and passed away on March 23, 2019. He earned the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military. He received this honor for his amazing courage during the Vietnam War in August 1966.
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Early Life and Joining the Marines
Howard Lee was born in New York City on August 1, 1933. He went to DeWitt Clinton High School and then to Pace College. In 1955, he earned a degree in Business Administration. While still in college, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
In September 1955, he started the Officer Candidates' Course in Quantico, Virginia. After finishing the course in December, he became a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps Reserve. He then completed more training at The Basic School and the Marine Corps Supply School.
After his training, he worked at the Marine Corps Supply Activity in Philadelphia. He was promoted to first lieutenant in June 1957. In January 1958, he joined the Regular Marine Corps.
Military Career and Promotions
In September 1958, First Lieutenant Lee moved to the West Coast. He served as a platoon commander with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines. This unit was part of the 3rd Marine Division.
He later became an officer with H&S Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines. In February 1960, he worked as a Guard Officer at the Marine Barracks in Indian Head, Maryland.
On July 1, 1961, he was promoted to captain. He then worked as a Platoon Commander and Instructor at The Basic School in Quantico until June 1964.
From July 1964 to February 1966, Captain Lee was stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He commanded Company A, 1st Battalion. He also served on the ship USS La Salle (LPD-3) and in the Dominican Republic.
Heroism in the Vietnam War
First Tour in Vietnam
In April 1966, Captain Lee was sent to the Republic of Vietnam. He became the Commanding Officer of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines. He earned the Bronze Star for his brave actions on June 26–27, 1966.
Then, on August 8–9, 1966, he showed incredible courage near Quang Tri. For this, he received the Medal of Honor. He was wounded during this action and was taken to the U.S. Naval Hospital, Bethesda. In November 1966, he returned to duty at Headquarters Marine Corps. He was promoted to major in July 1966.
On October 25, 1967, President Lyndon Johnson presented Major Lee with the Medal of Honor at the White House.
Second Tour in Vietnam
After completing college in June 1970, Major Lee returned to Vietnam for his second tour. He served as an Executive Officer and with the 2nd Combined Action Group. For his service, he earned another Bronze Star Medal.
In July 1972, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel. He retired from the Marine Corps in 1975.
Howard Lee passed away on March 23, 2019, at the age of 85.
Awards and Honors
Howard Lee received many awards for his service, including:
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| Medal of Honor | Bronze Star with 1 award star and valor device | ||
| Purple Heart | Combat Action Ribbon | Navy Presidential Unit Citation | National Defense Service Medal |
| Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal | Vietnam Service Medal with 2 service stars | Vietnam Gallantry Cross with 1 silver and 1 bronze star | Vietnam Campaign Medal |
See also
