Milton A. Lee joined the Army after graduation and was sent to Vietnam in January of 1968 where he worked as a radio/telephone operator.
SAN ANTONIO — After 56 years, a local graduate and Medal of Honor recipient will be recognized for his sacrifice and bravery.
The Harlandale Board of Trustees approved the Alamo Eagles Chapter of the 101st Airborne Division Association’s proposal to name the JROTC building in honor of 1967 graduate and Medal of Honor recipient Milton A. Lee.
According to the chapter, Milton joined the Army after graduation and was sent to Vietnam in January of 1968 where he worked as a radio/telephone operator with the 2/502 battalion of the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault.
Milton was killed in action (KIA) on April 26, 1968 in a firefight. According to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Lee died a national hero.
“Grievously wounded, he continued to press the attack, crawling forward into a firing position and delivering accurate covering fire to enable his platoon to maneuver and destroy the position. Not until the position was overrun did Pfc. Lee falter in his steady volume of fire and succumb to his wounds. Pfc. Lee’s heroic actions saved the lives of the lead element and were instrumental in the destruction of the key position of the enemy defense. Pfc. Lee’s gallantry at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, the 502d Infantry, and the U.S. Army.”
The Medal of Honor was presented to Milton’s grandmother by President Nixon in April of 1970. Milton joined three other Medal of Honor recipients from San Antonio.
A ceremony to unveil a plaque honoring Lee will be held at the high school on 114 E. Gerald Avenue on Thursday at 5 p.m.