Robert Francis Stryker

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Robert Francis Stryker (ASN: 12678792), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam, on 7 November 1967. Specialist Fourth Class Stryker was serving as a grenadier in a multi-company reconnaissance in force near Loc Ninh. As his unit moved through the dense underbrush, it was suddenly met with a hail of rocket, automatic weapons and small arms fire from enemy forces concealed in fortified bunkers and in the surrounding trees. Reacting quickly, Specialist Fourth Class Stryker fired into the enemy positions with his grenade launcher. During the devastating exchange of fire, Specialist Fourth Class Stryker detected enemy elements attempting to encircle his company and isolate it from the main body of the friendly force. Undaunted by the enemy machinegun and small-arms fire, Specialist Fourth Class Stryker repeatedly fired grenades into the trees, killing enemy snipers and enabling his comrades to sever the attempted encirclement. As the battle continued, Specialist Fourth Class Stryker observed several wounded members of his squad in the killing zone of an enemy claymore mine. With complete disregard for his safety, he threw himself upon the mine as it was detonated. He was mortally wounded as his body absorbed the blast and shielded his comrades from the explosion. His unselfish actions were responsible for saving the lives of at least six of his fellow soldiers. Specialist Fourth Class Stryker's great personal bravery was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

General Orders: Department of the Army, General Orders No. 72 (November 20, 1969)

Action Date: 7-Nov-67

Service: Army

Rank: Specialist Fourth Class

Company: Company C

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 26th Infantry Regiment

Division: 1st Infantry Division