Colonel Lewis L. Millett died Saturday, November 14, 2009. He was at one time my regimental commander. That’s not significant. He was the epitome of a warrior and had the courage that shared no peer. I was in awe of the Colonel when I met him not because of his being the recipient of the Medal of Honor but because of his fierce warrior countenance and inspiration to those who were training to become warriors.
Salute Sir! This country has lost one of the greatest who ever defended us.
Here’s Colonel Millett’s Medal of Honor Citation:
“Capt. Millett, Company E, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. While personally leading his company in an attack against a strongly held position he noted that the 1st Platoon was pinned down by small-arms, automatic, and antitank fire. Capt. Millett ordered the 3d Platoon forward, placed himself at the head of the 2 platoons, and, with fixed bayonet, led the assault up the fire-swept hill. In the fierce charge Capt. Millett bayoneted 2 enemy soldiers and boldly continued on, throwing grenades, clubbing and bayoneting the enemy, while urging his men forward by shouting encouragement. Despite vicious opposing fire, the whirlwind hand-to-hand assault carried to the crest of the hill. His dauntless leadership and personal courage so inspired his men that they stormed into the hostile position and used their bayonets with such lethal effect that the enemy fled in wild disorder. During this fierce onslaught Capt. Millett was wounded by grenade fragments but refused evacuation until the objective was taken and firmly secured. The superb leadership, conspicuous courage, and consummate devotion to duty demonstrated by Capt. Millett were directly responsible for the successful accomplishment of a hazardous mission and reflect the highest credit on himself and the heroic traditions of the military service.”
Uncommon valor is common among warriors like Colonel Millett. I will never forget him. To the Corps Sir!
Monday, November 16, 2009
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