Spec. 4 Peter M. Guenette
Co. D 2/506

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Spc. 4 Guenette distinguished himself while serving as a machine gunner with Company D, during combat operations. While Spc. 4 Guenette's platoon was sweeping a suspected enemy base camp, it came under light harassing fire from a well equipped and firmly entrenched squad of North Vietnamese Army regulars which was serving as a delaying force at the entrance to their base camp. As the platoon moved within 10 meters of the fortified positions, the enemy fire became intense. Spc. 4 Guenette and his assistant gunner immediately began to provide a base of suppressive fire, ceasing momentarily to allow the assistant gunner time to throw a grenade into a bunker. Seconds later, an enemy grenade was thrown to Sp4c. Guenette's right flank. Realizing that the grenade would kill or wound at least 4 men and destroy the machine gun, he shouted a warning and smothered the grenade with his body, absorbing its blast. Through his actions, he prevented loss of life or injury to at least 3 men and enabled his comrades to maintain their fire superiority. By his gallantry at the cost of his life in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, Spc. 4 Guenette has reflected great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.