Medal of Honor recipient Ken David finds help through DAV

As a 19-year-old soldier, Ken David thrust into the crucible of Vietnam—an experience that would define the course of his life.

During a fierce assault on the night of May 7, 1970, nearly 300 enemy fighters zeroed in on his platoon’s defensive perimeter. Almost immediately, David’s platoon leader was killed, and several fellow soldiers were wounded. With chaos erupting around him, David handed off his radio and rushed toward the front line, firing at the enemy without hesitation.

He wasn’t chasing glory. He was driven by instinct, training and an unshakable duty to protect his brothers-in-arms. Time and again, David exposed himself to withering enemy fire, yelling and shooting to divert attention and buy time.

“I did what I was trained to do,” David said. “I was the only one on three-quarters of the perimeter that was wounded but still able to fight.”

Despite his injuries, David refused to retreat. He kept fighting and held the line long enough for medevac helicopters to arrive and evacuate the wounded. He didn’t stop until every soldier around him was safe.
More than 50 years later, the nation recognized his extraordinary bravery with the Medal of Honor.

Listen as Ken David recounts that harrowing night and reflects on the sacrifice, perseverance, and strength that carried him through war—and shaped his journey home.