Class of 1965 Blog

The Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat "V" was presented to LeBron Gatlin on April 8, 2009. The Citation: To Lance Corporal Elbert L. Gatlin, United States Marine Corp for heroic achievement while serving as an Automatic Rifleman assigned to First Platoon, Company G, Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division in support of operations against North Vietnamese forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 13 October 1966. Lance Corporal Gatlin's platoon outpost was pinned down by intense enemy machine gun and small arms fire. During the initial heavy enemy attack, a fellow Marine was seriously wounded in the stomach. Lance Corporal Gatlin, with complete disregard for his own safety, left his covered position, drawing the enemy attack to him, and laid down suppressive fire to allow the Unit Corpsman to reach the wounded Marine. He remained in a standing position and firing until the rest of his platoon could bring their weapons to bear against the enemy. Lance Corporal Gatlins's outstanding initiative, courageous actions, and loyal devotion to duty reflect credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. Signed by the Secretary of the Navy.