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Hispanic-American Medal of Honor Recipients RUBIO, EURIPIDES Rank and organization: Captain,
U.S. Army, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry, 1st
Infantry Division, RVN.
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Hispanic-American Medal of Honor Recipients RUBIO, EURIPIDES Rank and organization: Captain,
U.S. Army, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry, 1st
Infantry Division, RVN.
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Citation: For conspicuous gallantry
and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.
Capt. Rubio, Infantry, was serving as communications officer, 1st Battalion, when
a numerically superior enemy force launched a massive attack against the battalion
defense position. Intense enemy machinegun fire raked the area while mortar rounds
and rifle grenades exploded within the perimeter. Leaving the relative safety of his
post, Capt. Rubio received 2 serious wounds as he braved the withering fire to go
to the area of most intense action where he distributed ammunition, re-established
positions and rendered aid to the wounded. Disregarding the painful wounds, he unhesitatingly
assumed command when a rifle company commander was medically evacuated. Capt. Rubio
was wounded a third time as he selflessly exposed himself to the devastating enemy
fire to move among his men to encourage them to fight with renewed effort. While aiding
the evacuation of wounded personnel, he noted that a smoke grenade which was intended
to mark the Viet Cong position for air strikes had fallen dangerously close to the
friendly lines. Capt. Rubio ran to reposition the grenade but was immediately struck
to his knees by enemy fire. Despite his several wounds, Capt. Rubio scooped up the
grenade, ran through the deadly hail of fire to within 20 meters of the enemy position
and hurled the already smoking grenade into the midst of the enemy before he fell
for the final time. Using the repositioned grenade as a marker, friendly air strikes
were directed to destroy the hostile positions. Capt. Rubio's singularly heroic act
turned the tide of battle, and his extraordinary leadership and valor were a magnificent
inspiration to his men. His remarkable bravery and selfless concern for his men are
in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit
on Capt. Rubio and the U.S. Army.