Soldier's actions epitomize true bravery

Sergeant Van T. Barfoot enlisted in the Army in 1940. He was in the 1st Infantry Division (my unit in Vietnam). He had fought in Sicily, then lower Italy, and then the battle at Anzio. 

Then, in May 1943, near the town of Carano, Italy, his unit came under fire. The sergeant single-handedly proceeded to make his way through a mine field, to engage the two machine guns that were firing at him. He was able to take out both machine guns with one hand grenade. He then killed eight of the enemy and captured 17 more.

After taking care of them, he returned, and there were three Tiger tanks coming at the sergeant and his unit. Van Barfoot took out the first Tiger tank with a bazooka; the other two turned and left. He then took out enemy manning an artillery piece with a machine gun. He then rescued two wounded American soldiers.

Keep in mind that he was all alone in these actions. America produces some heroic soldiers under fire. It happens in every war.

On Sept. 28, 1944, Sg. Van Barfoot was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions — the highest award for bravery that we have.

Roger Gregory served as a captain in the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam. He is a native of Sandpoint. He now is a business owner in Priest River.