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"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his
life above and beyond the call of duty, Sergeant Charles C. Fleek
distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader in Company C, 1st
Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division, on 27 May 1969 during
an ambush operation in Binh Duong Province, Republic of Vietnam.
Sergeant Fleek's unit was deployed in ambush locations when a large
enemy force approached the position. Suddenly, the leading
enemy element, sensing the ambush, halted, and started to withdraw.
Reacting instantly, Sergeant Fleek opened fire and directed the
effective fire of his men upon upon the numerically superior force.
During the fierce battle that followed, an enemy soldier threw a grenade
into the squad position. Realizing that his men had not seen the
grenade, Sergeant Fleek, although in a position to seek cover, shouted a
warning to his comrades and and threw himself onto the grenade,
absorbing its blast. His gallant action undoubtedly saved the
lives or prevented the injury of at least eight of his fellow soldiers.
Sergeant Fleek's gallantry and willing self sacrifice were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great
credit to himself, his unit, and the United States Army."
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