08/27/2026
In this feature of Purple Heart: Voices of Valor, Leo Williams shares his experience serving aboard a medical evacuation helicopter in Vietnam.
During a nighttime mission to transport an officer for medical care, the aircraft came under attack. Williams was injured by shrapnel but did not realize he had been wounded until the helicopter landed.
He reflects on the close call, the Purple Heart he later received, and the risks service members faced while carrying out their missions.