Also, from what I have read it appears he was exposing himself to fire instead of remaining more safely in the bunker he had taken over in order to provide fire in support of another helicopter trying to land in the area when he was killed. At that point he had already been shot multiple times, and killed the two guys who attacked his position in the bunker.
I'm no expert in what qualifies for the Medal of Honor, but this guy's actions seem to be in that territory.
Only one Air Force E.M. has ever received the C.M.O.H. and the Air Force fought tooth and nail against him receiving it posthumously. A U.S. Army Sgt. who witnessed his heroics petitioned Congress for years on his behalf before he received it.
The U.S. Air Force was (is) of the opinion that only brave pilots (officers) should receive it.
I think splitting hairs on this is a disservice to what he did. I’m not military but I think there is plenty of reason to give it to him. I pray that if I were in his position that I would have HALF the balls that he had. Wow.