Back in Time Today
You’ve heard the names Audie Murphy, Patton, and MacArthur. But chances are, you’ve never heard of Robert L. Howard—a soldier so decorated, so fearless, and so relentless in battle that his story reads like Hollywood fiction. Except every word is true. Here’s why Robert L. Howard might just be the greatest American warrior you’ve never heard of.
1. He Was Nominated for the Medal of Honor—Three Times in Just Over a Year
In the heat of the Vietnam War, Robert L. Howard was nominated for the Medal of Honor three times within just 13 months. Such recognition is rare, a testament to his exceptional valor. His courage was unfathomable. During these missions, he displayed extraordinary leadership and bravery under pressure. His actions were so commendable that they were considered legendary. While he was awarded the Medal of Honor once, the other two nominations underline his relentless heroism. Howard’s fearlessness was the beacon that guided his fellow soldiers through adversities, earning him an indelible place in military history.
2. He Eventually Received Over 70 Awards and Decorations
Robert L. Howard’s military career shines with over 70 awards and decorations, making him the most decorated soldier of the Vietnam War. His accolades include the prestigious Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Stars, Bronze Stars with Valor, and an astonishing eight Purple Hearts. Each decoration is a testament to his bravery and dedication to duty. His resume of honors reflects a soldier whose courage was unmatched, embodying the spirit of resilience and heroism in service of his country. Howard’s legacy, encapsulated in these awards, remains an inspiring tale of valor.
3. He Was Shot Multiple Times—and Kept Fighting
During one harrowing mission, Robert L. Howard was shot in the foot, suffered a blast from a land mine, and took shrapnel to his face and hands—all in a single engagement. Yet, his resolve remained unbroken. With unwavering determination, he led his men, rescued the wounded, and coordinated airstrikes despite his injuries. His resilience in the face of such adversity exemplifies the extraordinary spirit that defined his service. Howard’s ability to continue fighting, even when grievously wounded, captures the essence of his indomitable courage and commitment to his fellow soldiers.
4. He Served in the Top-Secret MACV-SOG
Robert L. Howard was not just any soldier; he was part of the elite MACV-SOG, a top-secret unit conducting covert operations in Southeast Asia. This unit was tasked with some of the most dangerous missions during the Vietnam War, many still classified. Howard’s involvement in such operations speaks volumes of his skill and bravery. The clandestine nature of his service highlights a side of war that remains shrouded in mystery. His role in MACV-SOG underscores his commitment to undertaking the most perilous assignments, often behind enemy lines, to ensure mission success.
5. His Medal of Honor Citation Is the Definition of Heroism
Robert L. Howard’s Medal of Honor citation is a narrative of pure heroism. In one operation, he faced an ambush that blew his weapon from his hands and inflicted severe wounds. Despite this, he saved his commander, directed air support, and repelled enemy forces while shielding others with his body. This citation reflects a soldier whose bravery transcended fear, a leader whose actions under fire were nothing short of legendary. Howard’s story, etched in this citation, serves as an enduring symbol of valor, commemorating a legacy of selflessness and extraordinary courage in battle.
6. He Earned Respect from the Toughest of the Tough
In a world where respect is often hard-earned, Robert L. Howard stood tall, admired by fellow soldiers and commanders alike. General William Westmoreland once remarked, “the bravest American soldier I’ve ever known,” about Howard, highlighting his esteemed position among military ranks. Such recognition from peers and superiors is a testament to his fearless nature and exemplary leadership. Howard’s ability to earn respect across the board underscores his commitment to duty and his remarkable prowess as a soldier. He was a man whose actions spoke louder than words, making him a revered figure in military history.
7. He Was a Green Beret and a Ranger
Robert L. Howard’s military career was distinguished by his status as both a Green Beret and a Ranger. These elite qualifications speak to his exceptional training and skillset. As a Special Forces operator, Howard embodied the resilience and adaptability required to undertake complex missions. His career, spanning nearly 36 years, included five tours in Vietnam. This dual qualification highlights his multifaceted military prowess and determination to excel in various combat scenarios. Howard’s legacy as a Green Beret and Ranger is a tribute to his dedication to achieving excellence in every aspect of his service.
8. He Had 8 Purple Hearts—One of the Highest Totals in U.S. History
Robert L. Howard’s military service was marked by an astounding eight Purple Hearts, one of the highest totals in U.S. history. Each medal represents a wound sustained in combat, a testament to his bravery and resilience. Despite being wounded so frequently, Howard’s determination never wavered. His ability to return to combat after each injury speaks volumes about his dedication to duty and his unyielding spirit. Howard’s record of Purple Hearts underscores a career defined by sacrifice and courage, making him a symbol of endurance in the face of adversity.
9. He Was Awarded the Medal of Honor by President Nixon Himself
In 1971, Robert L. Howard received the Medal of Honor from President Richard Nixon in a ceremony at the White House. This moment of recognition was a pinnacle in Howard’s career, acknowledging his extraordinary heroism. President Nixon, reportedly moved by Howard’s humility and bravery, praised his service. This prestigious award, presented by the President himself, highlighted Howard’s place among the most honored soldiers in American history. The ceremony underscored his contributions to the nation and celebrated a legacy of valor, making it a defining moment in his illustrious military journey.
10. He Quietly Mentored the Next Generation
After the Vietnam War, Robert L. Howard shifted his focus from personal accolades to nurturing the next generation of soldiers. Eschewing the spotlight, he dedicated himself to training elite troops, providing invaluable insights from his vast experience. Howard’s mentorship was characterized by his quiet strength and profound knowledge. His impact extended beyond training grounds, as he also advised military leaders and supported wounded veterans. Through these efforts, Howard’s legacy continued, embodied in the soldiers he guided. His influence, though understated, was monumental in shaping future military leaders.
11. He Served Until 1992—Then Volunteered Again
Robert L. Howard’s dedication to service extended beyond the Vietnam War, as he continued to serve until 1992, retiring as a full colonel. However, his commitment did not end there. In a display of unwavering patriotism, he volunteered to support operations during the War on Terror. Howard’s readiness to serve again underscores his lifelong devotion to his country. His willingness to return to duty, even after retirement, reflects a soldier whose sense of responsibility transcended personal ambition. Howard’s enduring dedication is a testament to his unparalleled allegiance to the nation.
12. He Died a Hero, But Lived Unknown
In 2009, Robert L. Howard passed away after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched heroism. Despite his illustrious military career, Howard lived largely unknown to the public. He never sought fame or recognition, choosing instead a life of service. His story, though not widely publicized, is a narrative of dedication and humility. Howard’s life, characterized by quiet heroism, reflects a soldier who lived for duty rather than acclaim. His passing marked the loss of a true American hero, whose contributions, though unsung, were invaluable to the nation’s history.
13. He’s Buried at Arlington—But Deserves a Statue
Robert L. Howard’s final resting place is Arlington National Cemetery, among America’s most revered military figures. This hallowed ground is a fitting tribute to his service, but many argue that Howard deserves more: a statue, documentaries, and a film to tell his extraordinary story. His contributions to the nation, though monumental, remain largely unrecognized. A statue would commemorate his unparalleled bravery, ensuring his legacy endures. Howard’s resting place, while honorable, is just a part of the recognition due to this remarkable soldier, whose life story warrants a broader acknowledgment.
14. Why Haven’t You Heard of Him?
Despite his remarkable achievements, Robert L. Howard remains a relatively unknown figure. Some attribute this to the classified nature of his missions, while others believe it’s because he never sought the spotlight. Howard’s life was marked by a quiet dedication to service, shunning fame in favor of duty. His anonymity is a reflection of his selflessness, a soldier whose actions spoke volumes without the need for recognition. Howard’s story, though not widely known, is an inspiring testament to the true spirit of a warrior, whose legacy deserves to be celebrated and remembered.