Allen James Lynch

He graduated from high school and worked a series of unskilled jobs until making the decision to join the army. He writes in his book, “In the early 60s, if you didn’t go to college or into a trade school, you got drafted, I wanted to chart my own course after graduation, not wait for something to just happen. I decided I would join the army and get my service out of the way.”

Allen served with Company D, 1st Battalion of the 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) from May 31st 1967 until June 1st 1968. He had been "in-country" for six months when the action took place that would result in his receiving the Medal of Honor. The recognition of his conspicuous gallantry and selfless service to others on that day would be the catalyst for a life of service to others.

He has spent his entire life serving his fellow veterans with the Federal Veterans Administration as well as the Illinois state government veterans department. He also served with the US Army Reserve and the Illinois National Guard until reaching mandatory retirement.

Throughout Lynch’s life, family and faith have played an important role. His wife, Susan, has been at his side for nearly 50 years, supporting him through his struggles with PTSD. His three children and grandchildren are all sources of pride. Bible study has also allowed him to become a spiritual giver, leading groups for men both at his church and in prisons.

Lynch currently resides in Gurnee, IL and his book Zero to Hero: From Bullied Kid to Warrior releases March, 13th 2019.

Medal of Honor Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. SGT Lynch (then Sp4) distinguished himself while serving as a radiotelephone operator with Company D. While serving in the forward element on an operation near the village of My An, his unit became heavily engaged with a numerically superior enemy force. Quickly and accurately assessing the situation, SGT Lynch provided his commander with information which subsequently proved essential to the unit's successful actions. Observing three wounded comrades Lying exposed to enemy fire, SGT Lynch dashed across 50 meters of open ground through a withering hail of enemy fire to administer aid. Reconnoitering a nearby trench for a covered position to protect the wounded from intense hostile fire, he killed two enemy soldiers at point blank range. With the trench cleared, he unhesitatingly returned to the fire-swept area three times to carry the wounded men to safety.

When his company was forced to withdraw by the superior firepower of the enemy, SGT Lynch remained to aid his comrades at the risk of his life rather than abandon them. Alone, he defended his isolated position for two hours against the advancing enemy. Using only his rifle and a grenade, he stopped them just short of his trench, killing five. Again, disregarding his safety in the face of withering hostile fire, he crossed 70 meters of exposed terrain five times to carry his wounded comrades to a more secure area. Once he had assured their comfort and safety, SGT Lynch located the counterattacking friendly company to assist in directing the attack and evacuating the three casualties. His gallantry at the risk of his life is in the highest traditions of the military service. SGT Lynch has reflected great credit on himself, the 12th Cavalry and the U.S. Army.

Near My An (2), Binh Dinh province, Republic of Vietnam, 15 December 1967.