Don J. Jenkins
Don J. Jenkins (born April 18, 1948) is a former United States Army soldier and a recipient of the United States military's highest decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his actions in the Vietnam War. Military career. Jenkins joined the United States Army from Nashville, Tennessee, and by January 6, 1969, was serving as a private first class in Alpha Company, 2d Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division. During a firefight on that day, in Kien Phong Province, Republic of Vietnam, Jenkins repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire to engage the enemy, resupply his ammunition , and obtain new weapons. Despite being wounded himself, he made several trips through intense fire to rescue other wounded soldiers. For his actions during the battle Jenkins was promoted to staff sergeant and awarded the Medal of Honor in March 1971. Medal of Honor citation. Staff Sergeant Jenkins official Medal of Honor citation reads: