Cpl. Daniel L. Heller Receives Navy Cross 55 Years After Heroic Actions

WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES -- Cpl. Daniel L. Heller, a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran, received the Navy Cross from Gen. Eric M. Smith, the 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, during an award ceremony Wednesday Aug. 28, 2024, at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., for his actions on Feb. 13, 1969, during Operation Dewey Canyon in the Vietnam War.

Heller initially received a Navy Achievement Medal (with Valor device) for his actions during that chaotic February afternoon. After an official review of his actions, and the resulting impact it had on mission accomplishment, his Navy Achievement Medal (with Valor device) was upgraded to a Navy Cross, the second highest award for valor in combat.

While on patrol during Operation Dewey Canyon, a North Vietnamese Army ambush attempted to push the Marines of 3rd squad, 3rd platoon from their position. While many Marines played a pivotal role in repelling the ambush, one Marine, Cpl. Daniel L. Heller, set himself apart with his heroic actions, leadership and valor.