Charles Liteky

2/14/1931 — 1/20/2017

RIP

Let's step back in time and meet a man of profound courage, conviction, and compassion — Charles Liteky. Born on Valentine's Day in 1931, Charles's life was characterized by acts of love — love for his fellow soldiers, love for justice, and love for peace.

Charles served as an Army Chaplain during the Vietnam War, a period that tested many. During a battle near Phuoc-Lac on December 6, 1967, Charles demonstrated an extraordinary act of heroism that saved the lives of dozens of wounded American soldiers. His bravery earned him the Medal of Honor in 1969 — an honor that's reserved for the very bravest.

Yet, the story of Charles Liteky doesn't stop there. In fact, his journey became even more extraordinary after the war.

In 1986, Charles made a shocking decision. He returned his Medal of Honor and renounced the accompanying pension. Why, you ask? Charles was a man of principles. He vehemently opposed the Reagan administration's support for right-wing dictators and "Contras" in Nicaragua and El Salvador. Returning his medal was his way of protesting these actions.

Charles didn't stop at simply voicing his disagreement. He took his convictions to heart and became a prominent peace activist. His dedication to the cause even led him to federal prison twice, once in 1990 and again in 2000.

Charles's commitment to peace extended beyond American borders. In 2002 and 2003, he traveled to Baghdad with other peace activists to protest the U.S. invasion of Iraq.

But let's rewind to the day when Charles showed us what a true hero looks like.

The day was December 6, 1967, and his unit was on a search-and-destroy mission when they found themselves under intense enemy fire. Without a moment's hesitation, Charles jumped into action. He moved fearlessly through enemy fire, giving last rites to dying soldiers and evacuating the wounded. He carried a man who was too heavy to move by rolling him onto his chest and crawling back to the landing zone using just his elbows and heels. He stood his ground against hostile fire, breaking through thick underbrush to save another soldier. He even directed medivac helicopters in and out of the area under enemy fire.

The morning after the battle, despite painful wounds in his neck and foot, it was discovered that Charles had personally carried over 20 men to safety.

Charles Liteky passed away on January 27, 2017, but his legacy of courage, conviction, and compassion lives on. He serves as an inspiration to all of us to stand up for what we believe in and to extend a helping hand, no matter the cost. Charles Liteky may have returned his Medal of Honor, but in the hearts of many, he will always remain a true hero.