Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage Legacy of a Warrior: Dwight Birdwell
Jun 11, 2025
Dwight Birdwell, a Medal of Honor recipient and Chief Justice of the Cherokee Nation, shares his gripping experiences during the Tet Offensive in Vietnam. He reflects on the intense ambush and the harrowing chaos of battle that transformed him from soldier to survivor. Birdwell discusses the psychological toll of war, his struggles with survivor's guilt, and how his Native American heritage shaped his valor. His journey highlights the deep ties between Native American communities and military service, culminating in a moving tribute to fallen comrades.
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Dwight's Night Reconnaissance
- Dwight Birdwell felt something was wrong on a summer night in Vietnam before an attack.
- He went out to investigate and was hit by rocket attacks, witnessing his friend Bill on fire.
Heroism at Tet Offensive
- Dwight's tank platoon was ambushed at the Tet Offensive, facing overwhelming enemy forces.
- He took command, fired from his tank exposed under fire, and protected wounded soldiers.
Rescue and Survivor's Guilt
- Dwight bravely rescued his burning friend Bill Watts and later tried to save his mangled friend Harold Donnelly.
- He felt guilt about their fate and carried the weight of his actions for decades.