Pemberton, James Alexander
Army Specialist 5

James Alexander Pemberton, age 22, from Beckley, West Virginia, Raleigh county.

Service era: Vietnam
Military history: 35th Infantry Regiment

Date of death: Friday, April 5, 1968
Death details: Bronze Star citation: On April 5 1968, Specialist Five Pemberton, was attached to Company A, 1/35th conducting a search and destroy operation near Kontum City. As the unit cautiously moved through dense jungle undergrowth toward a known enemy location, it was subjected to an intense barrage of hostile fire. In the initial volley, several men were injured. Despite the intense hostile fire, Specialist Five Pemberton rushed forward to administer first aid to the injured. Moving from one position to another through the hostile fire, Specialist Five Pemberton calmly administered first-aid and offered words of encouragement. As he again exposed himself to reach still another injured man, he was mortally wounded by the intense hostile fire. His courageous determination clearly prevented more serious casualties and greatly aided and inspired his comrades in successfully defeating the hostile assault. Specialist Five Pemberton’s exceptional courage, preserving concern for the welfare of his comrades, and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Source: National Archives, 35th Infantry Regiment Association