Week of July 7-11: The Museum will be closing early at 3pm each day this week to accommodate glass replacement in the entry rotunda.  Please pardon our mess during this construction.Hours, Directions And Parking
  • Plan your visit
    VISITTicket Packages and Offers
    VISITPlan a Group Visit
  • Explore All exhibits and events
    EXHIBITMoments of Action
    Free Teacher DaysNews
  • Explore All Recipients Stories
    EXHIBITMore Than a Medal
  • Ways to Get Involved
    BECOME A MEMBEREnjoy Year-Round Free Admission
    PRESSROOMAwarding Seven New Medals of Honor
  • Museum Map
  • Contact
  • Search
U.S. ArmyAwarded Posthumously
Olive III, Milton Lee
Olive III, Milton Lee

ConflictVietnam War
Rank
Year Of Action1965
Unit/Command3rd Platoon, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade
HometownChicago, Illinois

Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Pfc. Olive was a member of the 3rd Platoon of Company B, as it moved through the jungle to find the Viet Cong operating in the area. Although the platoon was subjected to a heavy volume of enemy gunfire and pinned down temporarily, it retaliated by assaulting the Viet Cong positions, causing the enemy to flee. As the platoon pursued the insurgents, Pfc. Olive and 4 other soldiers were moving through the jungle together with a grenade was thrown into their midst. Pfc. Olive saw the grenade, and then saved the lives of his fellow soldiers at the sacrifice of his by grabbing the grenade in his hand and falling on it to absorb the blast with his body. Through his bravery, unhesitating actions, and complete disregard for his safety, he prevented additional loss of life or injury to the members of his platoon. Pfc. Olive’s extraordinary heroism, at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.

Branch: U.S. ArmyConflict: Vietnam WarYear of Action: 1965
More On Milton Lee Olive Iii

Explore Fellow Recipients

See the recipients that share the same branch of service or conflict as Milton Lee Olive Iii
Label

View all Recipients
The Medal

A Medal Steeped in History

Uncover the inspiring legacy, symbolism, and selection criteria of the Medal of Honor.


EXPLORE THE MEDAL
A Medal Steeped in History
Exhibits

THE RING OF VALOR

Step into the heart of the Museum and surround yourself with stories of courage and sacrifice.


VIEW EXHIBIT DETAILS
THE RING OF VALOR
Buy Tickets
Become a Member
Donate 
to the Museum