A Hero’s Legacy: First Lieutenant Russell A. Steindam’s Valor and Sacrifice in Vietnam
The Ultimate Sacrifice: First Lieutenant Russell A. Steindam’s Story of Heroism in Vietnam
Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes
Author: Military History Team
Key Takeaways
- First Lieutenant Russell A. Steindam sacrificed his life at age 23 to save his fellow soldiers
- Graduated top of his class at Plano High School before serving in Vietnam
- Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in Tay Ninh Province
- His legacy lives on through the Collin County Courthouse named in his honor
Table of Contents
Early Life and Background
Russell Albert Steindam was born on August 27, 1946, in Austin, Texas. At the age of five, his family relocated to Plano, Texas, where he would spend his formative years. As a student at Plano High School, Steindam demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, graduating at the top of his class. His dedication to excellence continued as he pursued his education at the University of Texas.
Military Service
In 1968, Steindam answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army from his birth city of Austin. After completing his training, he was commissioned as an officer and deployed to Vietnam on October 1, 1969. As a First Lieutenant, he served with Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
The Medal of Honor Action
On February 1, 1970, during Operation Toan Thang IV in Tay Ninh Province, First Lieutenant Steindam led his platoon on a night ambush operation. The mission took a dramatic turn when enemy forces detected their presence and subjected the platoon to intense small arms fire, automatic weapons fire, and a barrage of grenades.
Legacy and Remembrance
First Lieutenant Russell A. Steindam’s sacrifice exemplifies the highest traditions of military service and selfless devotion to duty. He was laid to rest with full military honors at Restland Memorial Park in Dallas, Texas. His name is eternally inscribed on Panel 14W, Line 88 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
FAQ
Q: How long did Russell Steindam serve in Vietnam?
He arrived in Vietnam on October 1, 1969, and served until his death on February 1, 1970 – approximately four months.
Q: Where was Russell Steindam educated?
He attended Plano High School, where he graduated at the top of his class, and later attended the University of Texas.
Q: What specific award did he receive for his actions?
He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States military’s highest decoration for valor in combat.
Sources
- Military Hall of Honor – Russell A. Steindam Profile
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall – Panel 14W, Line 88
- U.S. Army Medal of Honor Records
- Collin County Historical Records
- Texas Military Forces Museum Archives
