Richard A. Pittman

Master Sergeant Richard Allan Pittman was a United States Marine who served with distinction during the Vietnam War. He is best known for his extraordinary heroism on July 24, 1966, for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration for valor.

While serving as a lance corporal with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, Pittman's unit came under intense enemy fire. Upon hearing that a companion platoon was heavily engaged and suffering casualties, he immediately rushed forward with his machine gun to provide crucial support. Despite facing a devastating onslaught of enemy fire, he advanced courageously, destroying multiple enemy positions and single-handedly routing a numerically superior enemy force to save his wounded comrades.

Pittman continued his dedicated service in the Marine Corps, eventually reaching the rank of Master Sergeant. His career and legacy remain a testament to the courage and selflessness of American Marines in combat during the Vietnam conflict.