My walk today was dedicated in honor of:
Navy HM2 Michael R Kempel, Age 22 of Cuyahoga Falls, OH.
KIA Aug. 27, 1970 Vietnam
He was a Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class with the 5th Marine Regiment.
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class Michael Richard Kempel United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 August 1970. Petty Officer Kempel was a member of Company M patrolling just north of Liberty Bridge in Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his platoon unknowingly entered an enemy minefield, the point Marine stepped on a hidden mine. The resulting explosion critically wounded the point Marine and seriously wounded several other Marines. With total disregard for his safety, knowing there were other mines in the vicinity, Petty Officer Kempel moved to the front of the platoon to provide aid to the wounded marines. As he neared the seriously wounded point marine, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Kempel stepped on another hidden mine, suffering multiple critical wounds from the explosion. Ignoring his wounds, Petty Officer Kempel crawled to the point marine and attempted to render medical aid until he succumbed to his wounds. His resolute effort throughout the engagement was a source of inspiration to all who observed him. By his outstanding professional skill, fortitude in the face of enemy fire, and unfaltering dedication to duty, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Kempel’s actions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall at Panel 7W, Line 17
We had a great 10.30 Mile walk today. I want to thank Robert Batz for walking with me today. It was a great walk. I want to thank all those who honked and waved in helping me honor this hero. It was amazing.
He will not be forgotten !
