James Patrick Achterhoff
Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps

On 18 March 1968, Lance Corporal James Patrick Achterhoff was serving with E Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Amphibious Force in Thua Thien Province, South Vietnam.

On that day, LCpl Achterhoff was killed in action when he sustained wounds from small arms fire. His body was recovered.

Medals and Awards

Silver Star Medal
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Campaign Medal

Silver Star Medal Citation

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal James Patrick Achterhoff (MCSN: 2385864), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 18 March 1968, during a battalion attack against elements of three North Vietnamese Army battalions in the fortified village of Vinh Quan Thuong in Quang Tri Province, Lance Corporal Achterhoff ignored the heavy volume of enemy small arms, mortar and artillery fire to reach his assault position. Undaunted by the intensity of the hostile fire, he completely disregarded his own safety as he aggressively led his men in an attack against a well-entrenched enemy emplacement, shouting orders and firing as he advanced. When only a few feet from his objective, Lance Corporal Achterhoff fell mortally wounded. Inspired by his leadership and aggressive fighting spirit, his squad overran and destroyed the enemy bunker, killing three North Vietnamese soldiers. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Achterhoff upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Honors

The name James P Achterhoff is located on Panel 45E Line 18 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.