First Lieutenant Robert L. Howard

 

The book I Walked with Heroes written by Jerry Guzzetta is an outstanding account that takes us through the infamous Vietnam War, where a large of U.S soldiers laid their lives, many were held captive and are still not known to be either alive or dead. The author who himself is a veteran of the war reflects on the conflict through his experiences, and the understandings of his comrade.

This particular section of the story looks into the life, and sacrifices made by Robert L. Howard on the battlefield. The author takes a deeper look into the sacrifices Robert made during the conflict, showcasing his bravery, war brilliance and courage while being outnumbered in front of the enemy.

Mission of Rescue

The author speaks about the defining moments of Lt. Robert’s military career, which occurred during a mission in the enemy territory. He was assigned to lead the American-Vietnamese platoon, and had great hopes with it. The highly anticipated mission soon turned to be the opposite of what he and his comrade was hoping for, the author Guzzetta talks about the two-company force of the enemy that turned to attack them, and gaining the initial upper hand over them. In the initial outburst of the enemy’s attack, Lt. Robert was heavily wounded, with his weapons being destroyed due to the grenades and gunfire. 

But bravery doesn’t see the weapons and scenarios in front. Instead of retreating, Howard displayed ultimate bravery by crawling through the line of enemy fire to reach his seriously injured platoon leader. This act of selflessness showcased not only his physical courage but also his deep commitment to his fellow soldiers. While administering first aid to his wounded commander, Howard faced yet another explosion when a bullet struck one of his ammunition pouches, exploding several rounds. Undiscouraged, he continued his mission, dragging the officer to safety, all while bullets rained around him.

Being Under Fire

Howard’s ability to take his platoon towards safety was remarkable. He converted the chaotic situation of an ambush into an organized defense. Through this, the author Guzzetta highlights Lt. Robert’s leadership skills and tactics, where he not only secured a comrade but also halted the enemy’s outburst of attack with a small number of soldiers through tactical maneuvers.

As the rescue helicopters finally arrived, Howard ensured that every member of his unit was safely loaded, refusing to leave until he made sure that all of them were safe and sound, and in the rescue helicopters. This level of commitment to his men demonstrated the highest ideals of military service and reflected Howard’s profound understanding of leadership, that a true leader prioritizes the welfare of their team above all else.

The tales and anecdotes told by Jerry Guzzetta in the book I Walked with Heroes may look and sound like a film’s story where acts of bravery are conducted single-handedly by the protagonists. Instead, the incidents highlighted in the book define the actual meaning and essence of the word courage and resilience that was shown by the U.S militia. The book is filled with tons of other events that took place during the Vietnam War, and it is available for readers from all across the globe on Amazon!

https://iwalkedwithheroes.com/