Lieutenant John Cooke Brewton, Navy Seal, Died in Vietnam Jan. 11, 1970

Lieutenant, Junior Grade John Cooke Brewton, a

Lieutenant John Cooke Brewton

member of Navy Seal Team Two, died on this date in 1970 in a military hospital in Vietnam of wounds suffered during a battle November 24, 1969. During that engagement, he continued to lead his platoon despite being seriously wounded, and for his actions was awarded the Silver Star. The citation reads:

Although wounded in the arms and back, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brewton led his platoon to offensive firing positions. He was again wounded while firing from a prone positions. Despite his additional painful injuries, he directed the Corpsman to care for other, more seriously wounded personnel, and remained in a forward exposed position to direct U.S. Navy Light Helicopter Fire Team air strikes on the enemy. Only after the enemy fire was suppressed and the other casualties treated did he accept medical aid for himself. By his valiant leadership and courageous fighting spirit in the face of grave enemy opposition and serious personal injuries, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brewton upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

He was on his second tour in Vietnam when he died. A Navy frigate, the USS Brewton, was named in his honor. Read more about this American hero at http://www.ussbrewton.com/brewton.htm