Michael Braxton – USMC 1968-70

(The following except is taken from Captain Hopgood’s draft of the Bronze Star Award citation)

Michael Braxton served with Company “E”, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division. Until April 1, 1970. He served as the Company Radio Operator and participated in many combat operations, including "Pipestone Canyon", and was always a highly visible and inspiring leader to all those with whom he worked. Sgt. Braxton called in over thirty emergency medical evacuations: his prompt and professional actions undoubtedly resulted in the saving of many lives and materially enhanced the morale of his unit. An expert in calling in close air support and adjusting supporting arms, he was instrumental in many defeats suffered by the enemy at his units’ hands. Reassigned as the Right Guide on 1 April 1970, he continued to provide outstanding service as he readily carried out and directed all the supply and logistic functions of his unit. While his actions in many combat operation were brave and produced outstanding results, his actions on 19 May 1970, about six miles south of Da Nang are typical. Sgt Braxton led his unit against a suspected enemy bunker. He simultaneously directed air support and automatic weapons fire on a suspected enemy bunker. His bold and decisive actions resulted in the capture of four enemy soldiers and two rifles at no cost to his unit.