CAMPBELL-JOSEPH

Joseph Timothy Campbell

Date of birth: July 3, 1944
Date of death: June 15, 1968
Home of record: Stoneham Massachusetts
Status: KIA

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War
 

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Joseph Timothy Campbell (MCSN: 0-101784), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism while serving as Executive Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations in the Republic of Vietnam. On 15 June 1968 during Operation MARMELUKE THRUST in Quang Nam Province, Company I became heavily engaged with a large enemy force and sustained several casualties. As the company prepared to evacuate its wounded, an artillery round impacted nearby, killing the company commander, a platoon commander, and the company gunnery sergeant. Although seriously wounded by fragments, Lieutenant Campbell realized that he was his unit's only remaining officer and refused medical aid in order to assume command of the company. Despite his weakened condition due to the loss of blood, he ensured that a landing zone was secured and selflessly directed the evacuation of the other casualties. When the medical evacuation helicopter arrived and immediately came under intense enemy ground fire, Lieutenant Campbell fearlessly moved among his men to direct suppressive fire on the hostile positions, enabling the helicopter to extract the casualties. Ignoring his weakened condition, he directed a second helicopter into the zone to complete the emergency medical evacuation. He subsequently succumbed to his wounds before he could be evacuated. By his courage, inspiring leadership, and selfless devotion to duty despite the severity of his wounds, Lieutenant Campbell undoubtedly saved the lives of numerous Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

General Orders: Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

Action Date: June 15, 1968

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: First Lieutenant

Company: Company I

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 5th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.) FMF

Submitted by Doug Bewall RMCM USN Ret