12NOV1967: Serving as a grenadier, PFC John Barnes and his unit were attacked by a battalion-sized enemy force. Outnumbered and taking casualties, Barnes noticed that a machine gun crew had all been killed. Recognizing the importance of that weapon system in the fight, he ran through the kill zone, reloaded and began pouring fire into the advancing enemy. In short order, Barnes killed nine enemy soldiers before having to pause to reload. As he was doing so, he noticed an enemy grenade that entered their lines and came to a rest by a group of wounded American Soldiers. Without hesitation, Barnes threw himself on the grenade and absorbed the full blast, killing him instantly. In recognition of this brave act that saved the lives of his fellow Soldiers, PFC John Barnes would be awarded, posthumously, the Medal of Honor.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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