Sergeant Donald Russell Long, A Soldier's Story
Sergeant Donald Russell Long, A Soldier's Story
Sergeant Donald Russell Long was born on August 27, 1939, in Black Fork, Ohio. He was raised in this small rural community and attended Decatur-Washington High School, where he developed the strong work ethic and steady character that would define his life.
In 1963, during a time of increasing American involvement overseas, he enlisted in the United States Army. Like many young men of his generation, he answered a call that would carry him far from home — to the dense terrain and complex conflict of the Vietnam War.
On June 30, 1966, while serving on a reconnaissance mission with the 4th Cavalry, Sergeant Long and his unit came under sudden enemy attack. In the chaos of combat, an enemy grenade landed among his fellow soldiers. With only seconds to react, Sergeant Donald Russell Long made a decision that required no hesitation. He threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing the blast with his own body and shielding the men around him. His actions saved his teammates' lives.
For his extraordinary heroism and self-sacrifice beyond the call of duty, Sergeant Donald Russell Long was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. He was twenty-six years old.
Sergeant Donald Russell Long rests at Union Baptist Church Cemetery in Black Fork, Ohio, returned home to the quiet place where his life began, remembered not only for how he died, but for the courage with which he chose to live.
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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.
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