Medal of Honor with Ed Tracy February 21, 2008

One soldier had to stay behind. The small observation team at Fire Base 6 was under heavy fire and vastly outnumbered, and two helicopters were shot down trying to rescue them. As the enemy gathered for a final assault, the young officer sent his men ahead, down the long ridge that led to safety, and prepared to cover their retreat – alone.

The Pritzker Military Library is proud to welcome U.S. Army Medal of Honor recipient Brian M. Thacker for an interview with Ed Tracy on Thursday, February 21st. This program is free and open to the public. The presentation and live webcast will begin at 6:00 p.m., preceded by a reception for Library members at 5:00 p.m. It will also be recorded for television broadcast on WYCC-TV/Channel 20.

There was, for 1st Lt. Brian Thacker, no thought for himself. He stayed behind and fought, and then radioed for U.S. artillery fire in on his position – all to ensure the safe withdrawal of his troops. At last, wounded and exhausted, Thacker abandoned the base and disappeared into a nearby bamboo thicket. For eight days, without food or water, he evaded around-the-clock enemy patrols. Only when Fire Base 6 was recaptured by friendly forces did he emerge and seek assistance. Two years later in 1973, Brian Thacker was awarded the Medal of Honor for his valor, selfless service and leadership.

Today, the humble, soft-spoken veteran is one of the most active representatives of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, making frequent appearances at public events to honor his fellow veterans and inspire the next generation of heroes.

Now in its fifth year, Medal of Honor with Ed Tracy has featured over twenty interviews with our nation’s greatest military heroes and their riveting stories of courage under fire. The 2008 season includes upcoming appearances by Medal recipients James E. Livingston, Bruce P. Crandall, and Thomas G. Kelley, leading up to the 2009 Medal of Honor Convention in Chicago.

Seating for this event is limited, so reservations are recommended. Call 312.587.0234 or email [email protected].

Official Website: http://www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/events