Corporal Kennith W Wheeler, USMC

Corporal Kennith W Wheeler, USMC, was born in Brownwood on December 20, 1945 to Mr. and Mrs. Alvie I Wheeler from May. He graduated from May High School in 1964. He was the most decorated big country soldier in the Vietnam War. He was killed in action on May 10, 1969. Corporal Wheeler's posthumous Silver Star citation reads: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as crew chief while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 May 1969. Corporal Wheeler launched aboard the second aircraft in the fourth section of a flight of eight CH-46 transport helicopters assigned to support the First Battalion, Ninth Marines during an assault landing into Landing Zone Erskine in Quang Tri Province. After disembarking the initial load of Marines and returning to the area with a second element of the assault force, Corporal Wheeler's aircraft came under intense hostile fire and crashed a few feet from the landing zone. When the helicopter slid off the crest of a hill and rolled over, a fire ignited in the rear of the aircraft near the fuel tanks. With complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Wheeler, after helping a crew member through a window, immediately proceeded to the rear of the helicopter and, with the aid of one of his aerial gunners, commenced assisting the 12 Marines out of the aircraft through the rear hatch. After six men were outside the helicopter, a series of secondary explosions completely destroyed the aircraft, mortally injuring Corporal Wheeler and the other Marines inside. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of six Marines who were trapped inside the helicopter. By his courage, sincere concern for his fellow men, and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Wheeler upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country". He was posthumously promoted to sergeant. In addition to the Silver Star, Corporal Kennith W Wheeler received the Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, 18 air medals (First Strike/Flight Award, 2 through 17 for strike flights against the enemy, and one for heroic achievement in the Khe Sanh Engagement), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnamese Service Medal, and Vietnamese Campaign Medal. Corporal Wheeler is buried in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery.