Throughout the week, our ACC Team searches through emails and news articles looking for someone who deserves to be the Hero of the Week… Find out how you can nominate a Hero of the Week at the bottom of the page.
This week, we received an email from Sandra Michael who wanted to posthumously nominate her brother Don Michael as ACC’s Hero of the Week.
Don was an army specialist during the Vietnam War who was honored with the Medal of Honor from the President of the United States. He’s the only one in his hometown area of Lauderdale County, Alabama, to have received the Medal of Honor.
With the U.S. Army, Don was part of a platoon that was moving through an area of suspected enemy activity. While the rest of the platoon stopped to provide security, his squad moved to investigate. They encountered a single Viet Cong soldier and when he was fired upon, the other Viet Cong opened fire with automatic weapons from a concealed bunker.
Don tossed two grenades but failed to eliminate the enemy position. On his third attempt to take out the enemy bunker, he was successful. He followed the remaining enemy soldiers, and when the rest of his platoon caught up to him, they found that he’d been mortally wounded.
His courage and determination that day saved the lives of many in his squad.
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Kix’s Response:
As we take this Memorial Day Weekend to recognize those who gave their lives, I am happy to recognize SP4 Don Michael as our ACC Hero for his bravery.
And, to his sister Sandra, we thank you and your family. We’re sorry for your loss, though I know words are never really enough. Thank you for sharing your brother’s story of bravery with us.
Nominate a Hero of the Week
Now, we want to know who has made a difference in your life. Nominate a local firefighter, police officer, EMT or someone who is serving our country in the military. It could even be a neighbor, family member or friend who lent a crucial helping hand. Let us know all about the person who you feel is a real life hero by emailing us here and please feel free to send us a picture!