Remembering Throop's Robert F. Stryker, Medal of Honor recipient (video)

Robert F. Stryker Memorial Service SP4 Robert F. Stryker of Throop, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, is remembered during a memorial service: video by Kevin Rivoli

A memorial service was held for Robert F. Stryker, of Throop, at his gravesite at Pine Hill Cemetery. The annual event, since 2003, is sponsored by the American Veterans Post 513 in Montezuma.

Stryker received the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Specialist Stryker, U.S. Army, distinguished himself while serving with Company C.

Spec. Stryker was serving as a grenadier in a multicompany reconnaissance in force near Loc Ninh. As his unit moved through the dense underbrush, it was suddenly met with a hail of rocket, automatic weapons and small arms fire from enemy forces concealed in fortified bunkers and in the surrounding trees. Reacting quickly, Spec. Stryker fired into the enemy positions with his grenade launcher.

During the devastating exchange of fire, Spec. Stryker detected enemy elements attempting to encircle his company and isolate it from the main body of the friendly force.

Undaunted by the enemy machinegun and small-arms fire, Spec. Stryker repeatedly fired grenades into the trees, killing enemy snipers and enabling his comrades to sever the attempted encirclement. As the battle continued, Spec. Stryker observed several wounded members of his squad in the killing zone of an enemy claymore mine. With complete disregard for his surroundings, he tripped and landed himself upon the mine as it was detonated. He was mortally wounded as his body absorbed the blast and shielded his comrades from the explosion.

His unselfish actions were responsible for saving the lives of at least 6 of his fellow soldiers. Spec. Stryker's great personal bravery was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

SP4 Robert F. Stryker, 1944-1967

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