The Congressional Medal of Honor Society announces the passing of Larry L. Taylor, a Vietnam War helicopter pilot and recipient of the nation’s highest military honor, at his home in Signal Mountain, Tennessee on Jan. 28. He was 81.
In September 2023, President Biden presented Taylor with the Medal of Honor for his actions near the village of Ap Go Cong in 1968. Then a First Lieutenant, Taylor commanded a team of two Cobra gunships on a perilous mission to rescue a four-man patrol pinned down by hostile fire.
Under intense enemy fire, Taylor and his wingman rained down suppressing fire to protect the trapped soldiers. When their ammunition ran low, Taylor, displaying exceptional bravery, made repeated feints at low altitude, diverting enemy attention and creating a window for escape.
With the planned evacuation route rendered untenable by heavy fire, Taylor, in a selfless act of heroism, landed his helicopter within 100 yards of the enemy, exposing himself to further danger. The patrol scrambled aboard, filling every available space, even clinging to rocket pods and skids. Taylor, with remarkable skill and courage, maneuvered the overloaded aircraft through enemy fire, saving the lives of all four men.
Taylor’s military career spanned eight years. He flew over 2,000 combat missions, initially in UH-1 Hueys and later as one of the first pilots of the formidable AH-1 Cobra gunship. He received numerous decorations, including the Bronze Star, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, and 43 Air Medals, alongside his Silver Star, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor.
Following his military service, Taylor returned home and built a successful career in the roofing and sheet metal industry. He remained active in veterans’ organizations and was a generous supporter of local charities.
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