NEW LONDON, Conn. (AP) – A Coast Guard veteran has been honored for his heroism during the Vietnam War, when he led a response to an enemy attack and fires at a Navy ammunition and supply base in 1968. Officials at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, on Friday awarded 72-year old William Carr a plaque that was placed on the Wall of Gallantry in the academy’s Hall of Heroes.

The resident of Davenport, Iowa, commanded a patrol boat crew that led firefighting efforts, saved ammunition and other materials from the fires and called in medical assistance to the base just south of the demilitarized zone. He received the Bronze Star for his actions.  Carr says the attack and fires on the base killed six to nine servicemen and wounded 98 others.