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Today Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) awarded the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device to former Army Sergeant Harry E. Pope of Melbourne for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam.

“It’s truly an honor to meet Sergeant Pope and to have the opportunity to present him with this medal after all these years,” said Congressman Posey. “The story of Sergeant Pope’s bravery is an example of why we owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women serving in our armed forces. It’s because of actions taken by soldiers like Sergeant Pope that our nation and our liberties have been able to survive for 235 years.”

On February 5, 1968 Pope was serving with his company at Quan Loi Base Camp. The base was subjected to an intense enemy mortar and rocket attack, and it became necessary that the perimeter be supplied with additional ammunition. Sergeant Pope immediately drove to the base ammunition storage area in his vehicle, but was refused admittance because the site had been hit by hostile rounds causing several raging fires. With complete disregard to his personal safety, he ignored the danger and entered the area. Pope quickly located the required munitions, loaded his vehicle and drove them to the waiting units along the perimeter. Pope’s actions were instrumental in maintaining the defense of the base.