Who was Maximo Yabes?

Maximo Yabes was a United States Army soldier who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. Born in Lodi, California, he served with distinction and gave his life in service to his country.

What is Maximo Yabes' nickname?

Maximo Yabes was known by the nickname "Max" among his peers and colleagues.

When and where was Maximo Yabes born?

Maximo Yabes was born on January 29, 1932, in Lodi, California, United States.

When and where did Maximo Yabes die?

Maximo Yabes died on February 26, 1967, at the age of 35, in Tay Ninh Province, Republic of Vietnam, during combat operations.

What military branch did Maximo Yabes serve in?

Maximo Yabes served in the United States Army, dedicating 17 years of his life to military service.

What was Maximo Yabes' rank at the time of his death?

Maximo Yabes held the rank of First Sergeant at the time of his heroic actions and subsequent death.

What unit was Maximo Yabes assigned to during the Vietnam War?

During the Vietnam War, Maximo Yabes was assigned to Company A, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry, of the 25th Infantry Division.

In which major conflict did Maximo Yabes serve and receive the Medal of Honor?

Maximo Yabes served and received the Medal of Honor for his exceptional bravery during the Vietnam War.

What were the primary awards and recognitions received by Maximo Yabes?

Maximo Yabes was awarded the United States' highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, and also received the Purple Heart.

What specific act of bravery earned Maximo Yabes the Medal of Honor?

Maximo Yabes earned the Medal of Honor for using his body as a shield to protect others in a bunker, moving two wounded men to safety, and destroying an enemy machine gun position before succumbing to his wounds.

Where did Maximo Yabes move at a young age, and where did he receive his education?

Maximo Yabes moved with his family to Oakridge, Oregon, at a young age, where he completed his primary and secondary education.

When did Maximo Yabes join the United States Army?

Maximo Yabes joined the United States Army in 1950, shortly after leaving Oakridge High School.

Did Maximo Yabes have prior combat experience before serving in Vietnam?

Yes, Maximo Yabes had prior combat experience, having served in Korea with the 187th Regimental Combat Team.

How many years had Maximo Yabes served in the Army by 1967?

By 1967, Maximo Yabes had accumulated 17 years of service in the United States Army.

Where was the 25th Infantry Division stationed in South Vietnam in early 1967?

In early 1967, the 25th Infantry Division, including First Sergeant Yabes' unit, was stationed at Củ Chi Base Camp, which is located northwest of Saigon.

What was the mission of the Army engineers that Company A was assigned to protect?

Company A was tasked with protecting Army engineers whose objective was to clear a section of land between a village and a plantation. This action aimed to remove the jungle cover that provided concealment for enemy ambushers and snipers.

What types of enemy fire did Company A face during the attack on February 26, 1967?

During the attack, Company A was subjected to intense automatic weapons fire and mortar fire. The enemy also used whistles to coordinate their assault and hurled grenades towards the American positions.

How did Maximo Yabes initially protect his comrades during the enemy assault on the command post?

When enemy grenades landed inside the command post bunker, First Sergeant Yabes shouted a warning and used his own body as a shield to protect the others within the bunker from the blast and fragments.

What actions did Yabes take after being wounded by grenade fragments in the command post?

Despite being painfully wounded by grenade fragments, Yabes remained in the command post to provide covering fire. He then moved through heavy enemy fire to another bunker, secured a grenade launcher, and fired upon the attacking Viet Cong, halting their advance.

How did Yabes assist his wounded comrades?

Yabes noticed two fellow soldiers who were wounded and unable to move from an area exposed to enemy fire. He bravely moved them to a safer location where they could receive necessary medical treatment.

What critical enemy threat did Yabes identify within the perimeter, and how did he neutralize it?

Yabes identified an enemy machine gun positioned within the American perimeter that posed a significant threat to the entire position. He single-handedly dashed across the exposed area, assaulted the machine gun crew, killed them, and destroyed the weapon.

What was the immediate consequence for Maximo Yabes after destroying the enemy machine gun?

After successfully neutralizing the enemy machine gun and its crew, Maximo Yabes was mortally wounded.

What were the approximate casualties for both sides during the intense battle on February 26, 1967?

The fierce engagement resulted in significant losses, with 24 American soldiers and over 113 Viet Cong fighters killed during the attack.

When and where was the Medal of Honor officially presented to Maximo Yabes' family?

The Medal of Honor was presented posthumously to Maximo Yabes' wife and children in a formal ceremony held at the Pentagon in October 1968.

What specific danger did the company command post face during the enemy's penetration of the defensive perimeter?

The command post received increasingly heavy fire and was in imminent danger of being overwhelmed, particularly after enemy grenades landed inside the bunker.

How did Yabes' use of the grenade launcher contribute to the defense of the position?

By securing and firing the grenade launcher at close range into the attacking Viet Cong, Yabes effectively stopped their further penetration into the defensive perimeter, preventing a potential breach.

What did Yabes' Medal of Honor citation state about his final actions?

The citation states that Yabes, acting on his own initiative, dashed across exposed ground to assault an enemy machine gun, successfully killed the crew, and destroyed the weapon, sustaining mortal wounds in the process.

How did Yabes' courageous actions impact his fellow soldiers and the overall defense during the battle?

First Sergeant Yabes' valiant and selfless actions directly saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers and served as a profound inspiration, enabling his comrades to effectively repel the enemy assault.

How did the community of Oakridge, Oregon, honor Maximo Yabes?

The community of Oakridge, Oregon, collectively honored Maximo Yabes by donating resources to construct a memorial in Greenwaters Park, which includes a fountain, flagpole, and a bronze bust of Yabes.

Who was commissioned to create the memorial for Maximo Yabes in Oakridge?

The sculptor Tim Outman was commissioned to create the memorial honoring First Sergeant Maximo Yabes in Oakridge, Oregon.

In which Texas city was an avenue named in honor of Maximo Yabes?

The city of El Paso, Texas, recognized Maximo Yabes' service and sacrifice by naming an avenue in his honor.

Where can Maximo Yabes' name be found inscribed in remembrance of his service?

Maximo Yabes' name is inscribed on panel 15E, line 102 of the Vietnam Memorial Wall, located in Washington, D.C.

What is the significance of the Combat Infantryman Badge?

The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is awarded to U.S. Army soldiers who have engaged in active ground combat, signifying their direct participation in infantry combat operations.

Besides the Medal of Honor and Purple Heart, what other significant awards did Maximo Yabes receive?

Maximo Yabes also received the Army Good Conduct Medal (with five awards), the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two Service stars, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

What does the Vietnam Service Medal with two Service stars indicate?

The Vietnam Service Medal recognizes service in Vietnam, and the presence of two service stars indicates participation in multiple qualifying campaigns or periods of service during the Vietnam War.

What does the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm signify?

The Vietnam Gallantry Cross is a Vietnamese military decoration awarded for acts of valor or heroic conduct. The addition of a palm indicates a higher level of recognition for these actions.

What specialized skills or qualifications are indicated by the Parachutist Badge and the Expert Marksmanship Badge?

The Parachutist Badge signifies completion of U.S. Army airborne training, while the Expert Marksmanship Badge, with its Rifle and Pistol Component Bar, denotes a high level of proficiency with these specific firearms.

What insignia represented Yabes' division and regiment?

Yabes' division was represented by the 25th Infantry Division Combat Service Identification Badge (CSIB), and his regiment was represented by the 9th Infantry Regiment Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI).

What does the Infantry Shoulder Cord signify?

The Infantry Shoulder Cord is a distinctive insignia worn by soldiers serving in infantry roles, symbolizing their specific branch of service within the Army.

How many Overseas Service Bars did Maximo Yabes have, and what do they represent?

Maximo Yabes had one Overseas Service Bar, which typically denotes a period of service conducted outside the continental United States.

What do the four Service stripes on Maximo Yabes' uniform represent?

The four Service stripes, also known as hash marks, worn on the lower sleeves of an Army uniform indicate periods of service, with each stripe generally representing three years of honorable service.

What is the title of one of the books that references Maximo Yabes' exploits, and who is the author?

One book that references Maximo Yabes' exploits is "Vietnam Order of Battle: A Complete Illustrated Reference to U.S. Army Combat and Support Forces in Vietnam 1961–1973," authored by Shelby L. Stanton.

What is the subject of the book "Two Eagles in the Sun: A Guide to U.S. Hispanic Culture" by Richard C. Campbell?

The book "Two Eagles in the Sun: A Guide to U.S. Hispanic Culture" by Richard C. Campbell includes references to Maximo Yabes, likely discussing his contributions within the context of Hispanic military history.

What is the purpose of the "Faces from the Wall" external link?

The "Faces from the Wall" external link serves as a resource providing information and archival materials related to soldiers, including Maximo Yabes, often focusing on their experiences and sacrifices during the Vietnam War.

What information is provided by the external link to Amazon?

The external link to Amazon allows users to search for books or other materials related to Maximo Yabes, potentially including biographies or historical accounts that mention his life and service.

Maximo Yabes Wiki: The Valor of Phu Hoa Dong: Maximo Yabes' Enduring Legacy

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Early Years

Birth and Upbringing

Maximo Yabes was born on January 29, 1932, in Lodi, California. At a young age, his family relocated to Oakridge, Oregon, where he completed his foundational education. Yabes demonstrated an early commitment to service, leaving Oakridge High School in 1950 to enlist in the United States Army.

Early Military Service

His military career began with service in the Korean War, where he was attached to the 187th Regimental Combat Team. This early experience forged the discipline and resilience that would define his later service.

Vietnam War Service

Assignment and Objective

By 1967, First Sergeant Yabes had accumulated 17 years of dedicated service in the U.S. Army. He was assigned to Company A, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry, within the 25th Infantry Division, stationed near Cu Chi Base Camp in South Vietnam. His company's mission involved supporting Army engineers tasked with clearing jungle terrain to deny cover to enemy forces and snipers.

The Attack on Phu Hoa Dong

On February 26, 1967, Company A faced a fierce, battalion-sized assault from the Viet Cong. The enemy forces breached the perimeter, launching a barrage of automatic weapons fire and grenades towards the command bunker. In the midst of this intense engagement, First Sergeant Yabes exhibited extraordinary bravery.

Acts of Valor

Yabes repeatedly placed himself in harm's way. He first used his own body to shield fellow soldiers from grenade fragments within the command bunker. Despite being wounded, he provided covering fire and moved to another position. He then utilized a grenade launcher to halt enemy advances and subsequently moved two wounded comrades to safety. Finally, observing an enemy machine gun position threatening the entire company, Yabes single-handedly assaulted the position, neutralizing the crew and destroying the weapon before succumbing to mortal wounds.

Medal of Honor Citation

Citation Details

For his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty, First Sergeant Maximo Yabes was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His citation details his heroic actions near Phu Hoa Dong, Republic of Vietnam, on February 26, 1967.

MAXIMO YABES

Rank and organization: First Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company A, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.

Place and date: Near Phu Hoa Dong, Republic of Vietnam, February 26, 1967.

Entered service at: Eugene, Oregon

Born: January 29, 1932, Lodi, California.

Citation:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. 1st Sgt. Yabes distinguished himself with Company A, which was providing security for a land clearing operation. Early in the morning the company suddenly came under intense automatic weapons and mortar fire followed by a battalion sized assault from 3 sides. Penetrating the defensive perimeter the enemy advanced on the company command post bunker. The command post received increasingly heavy fire and was in danger of being overwhelmed. When several enemy grenades landed within the command post, 1st Sgt. Yabes shouted a warning and used his body as a shield to protect others in the bunker. Although painfully wounded by numerous grenade fragments, and despite the vicious enemy fire on the bunker, he remained there to provide covering fire and enable the others in the command group to relocate. When the command group had reached a new position, 1st Sgt. Yabes moved through a withering hail of enemy fire to another bunker 50 meters away. There he secured a grenade launcher from a fallen comrade and fired point blank into the attacking Viet Cong stopping further penetration of the perimeter. Noting 2 wounded men helpless in the fire swept area, he moved them to a safer position where they could be given medical treatment. He resumed his accurate and effective fire killing several enemy soldiers and forcing others to withdraw from the vicinity of the command post. As the battle continued, he observed an enemy machinegun within the perimeter which threatened the whole position. On his own, he dashed across the exposed area, assaulted the machinegun, killed the crew, destroyed the weapon, and fell mortally wounded. 1st Sgt. Yabes' valiant and selfless actions saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers and inspired his comrades to effectively repel the enemy assault. His indomitable fighting spirit, extraordinary courage and intrepidity at the cost of his life are in the highest military traditions and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.^[2]

Honors and Recognition

Memorials and Tributes

First Sergeant Maximo Yabes was laid to rest with full military honors at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado. His profound sacrifice has been honored through various tributes:

Oakridge, Oregon Memorial: In his hometown, numerous individuals, businesses, and organizations collaborated to construct a memorial in Greenwaters Park. This tribute features a fountain, a flagpole, and a bronze bust of Yabes, commemorating his heroic actions.
El Paso, Texas: The city of El Paso, Texas, recognized his service by naming an avenue in his honor.
Vietnam Memorial Wall: First Sergeant Yabes' name is inscribed on Panel 15E, Line 102, of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., a solemn reminder of his sacrifice.

Awards and Recognitions

Military Decorations

First Sergeant Maximo Yabes received numerous awards and recognitions for his distinguished service and valor:

🎖️

Combat Infantryman Badge

⭐

Medal of Honor

💜

Purple Heart

👍

Army Good Conduct Medal (5 Awards)

🇻🇳

National Defense Service Medal

🎖️

Vietnam Service Medal (with 2 Service Stars)

🏆

Vietnam Gallantry Cross (with Palm)

🏅

Vietnam Campaign Medal

🪂

Parachutist Badge

🎯

Expert Marksmanship Badge (Rifle and Pistol)

Unit Insignia and Service Bars

In addition to personal awards, Yabes was recognized for his affiliation with his units and his length of service:

⚔️

25th Infantry Division CSIB

⚔️

9th Infantry Regiment DUI

🎗️

Infantry Shoulder Cord

🌟

1 Overseas Service Bar

📏

4 Service Stripes

Related Information

Further Exploration

For deeper context on military history and biographical information:

👤 Portal: Biography
📜 List of Medal of Honor Recipients
🇻🇳 List of Medal of Honor Recipients for the Vietnam War
👨‍Hispanic Hispanic Medal of Honor Recipients

Notes

Source References

The following notes provide context and attribution for the information presented:

The information regarding the attack and Yabes' actions is detailed in historical accounts of the Vietnam War. ^[1]
The official citation for the Medal of Honor, awarded posthumously to First Sergeant Maximo Yabes, details the specific acts of valor performed on February 26, 1967. ^[2]
Local community efforts in Oakridge, Oregon, led to the creation of a memorial honoring First Sergeant Yabes, reflecting the community's deep respect for his sacrifice. ^[3]

External Resources

Online Archives and Databases

Additional resources providing information on First Sergeant Maximo Yabes:

📄 Faces from the Wall (Archived)
📄 Biographical Information (Archived)
🛒 Amazon Book Listings

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References

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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content reflects a specific point in time and may not encompass all nuances or the most current information.

This is not a substitute for official historical records or military documentation. The information provided herein should not be considered definitive or used for critical decision-making without cross-referencing authoritative sources. The creators of this page are not responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented.

We strongly encourage consulting official military archives, historical texts, and primary sources for a complete understanding of the events and individuals discussed.

The Valor of Phu Hoa Dong

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Early Years

Birth and Upbringing

Early Military Service

Vietnam War Service

Assignment and Objective

The Attack on Phu Hoa Dong

Acts of Valor

Medal of Honor Citation

Citation Details

Honors and Recognition

Memorials and Tributes

Awards and Recognitions

Military Decorations

Unit Insignia and Service Bars

Related Information

Further Exploration

Notes

Source References

Further Reading

Scholarly Works

External Resources

Online Archives and Databases

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The Valor of Phu Hoa Dong

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Early Years 📅

🇺🇸 Birth and Upbringing

🇰🇷 Early Military Service

Vietnam War Service 🇻🇳

⚔️ Assignment and Objective

💥 The Attack on Phu Hoa Dong

🛡️ Acts of Valor

Medal of Honor Citation 📜

🌟 Citation Details

Honors and Recognition 🏆

🇺🇸 Memorials and Tributes

Awards and Recognitions 🏅

🎖️ Military Decorations

🛡️ Unit Insignia and Service Bars

Related Information 🔗

📚 Further Exploration

Notes 📝

📝 Source References

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📖 Scholarly Works

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🔗 Online Archives and Databases

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Early Years

Birth and Upbringing

Early Military Service

Vietnam War Service

Assignment and Objective

The Attack on Phu Hoa Dong

Acts of Valor

Medal of Honor Citation

Citation Details

Honors and Recognition

Memorials and Tributes

Awards and Recognitions

Military Decorations

Unit Insignia and Service Bars

Related Information

Further Exploration

Notes

Source References

Further Reading

Scholarly Works

External Resources

Online Archives and Databases

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

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Discover other topics to study!

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