Our walk today was dedicated in honor of:
Army SGT Gordon D. Yntema, Age 22 of Holland, MI.
KIA Jan. 18, 1968 Vietnam
SGT Yntema was assigned to Detachment A-431, Company D, Regiment 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) 1st Special Forces Division.
SGT Yntema was the recipient of the Medal of Honor. He also received the Silver Star, 2 Purple Hearts
“He accompanied 2 platoons to a blocking position east of the village of Thong Binh, where they became heavily engaged in a small-arms fire fight with the Viet Cong. A dwindling ammunition supply, coupled with a Viet Cong mortar barrage which inflicted heavy losses on the exposed friendly troops, caused many of the irregulars to withdraw. Seriously wounded and ordered to withdraw himself, Sgt. Yntema refused to leave his fallen comrades.
Sgt. Yntema stood his ground, using his rifle as a club to fight the approximately 15 Viet Cong attempting his capture. His resistance was so fierce that the Viet Cong were forced to shoot in order to overcome him. Sgt. Yntema’s personal bravery in the face of insurmountable odds and supreme self-sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect the utmost credit upon himself, the 1st Special Forces, and the U.S. Army.”
He died aged 22 as a true American hero and may he Rest in Peace.
SGT Yntema is honored at the Vietnam Memorial Wall on Panel 34E, Line 73
We had a great 5.39 Mile walk today. We walked to the War Memorial Park down town and back. What a beautiful day for a walk. I want to thank my friend Robert for walking with us today. I also want to thank everyone who honked, waved, and saluted in helping us honor this hero today. We had 171 honks. It was amazing. Thank you.
Army SGT Gordon D. Yntema will not be forgotten !
Gordon Yntema was a brave man and a most honorable soldier. Never try I be forgotten.