In the long and storied history of the United States Army, few acts of courage stand as powerfully as that of Maximo Yabes. A First Sergeant who gave everything for his fellow soldiers, Yabes embodied selflessness in its purest form. His actions during the Vietnam War earned him the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration, and secured his place among America’s most revered heroes.
Early Life and Struggles: Maximo Yabes was born on January 29, 1932, in Lodi, California. At a young age, his family relocated to Oakridge, Oregon, where he spent his formative years and attended local schools.
Life was not without its challenges. In 1950, Yabes made the difficult decision to leave high school, choosing instead a path of service and purpose. That decision would shape not only his future but also the lives of countless others he would go on to protect.
Military Enlistment and Heroics: Yabes enlisted in the United States Army in 1950, beginning what would become a distinguished 17-year military career. Early in his service, he fought in the Korean War as part of the elite 187th Regimental Combat Team, gaining valuable combat experience and proving his resilience under fire.
By 1967, he had risen to the rank of First Sergeant and was assigned to Company A, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in South Vietnam. Stationed near Củ Chi Base Camp, his unit was tasked with protecting engineers clearing jungle terrain to prevent enemy ambushes.
Yabes was known not just for his leadership, but for his unwavering commitment to his men—qualities that would soon be tested in the most extreme circumstances.
Defining Moment: On February 26, 1967, near Phu Hoa Dong, Yabes and his company came under a fierce and coordinated attack by Viet Cong forces. The enemy breached the defensive perimeter, launching grenades and unleashing heavy automatic fire on the command post.
In the chaos, Yabes acted without hesitation. When grenades landed inside the bunker, he threw himself over his fellow soldiers, using his own body as a shield. Despite suffering multiple wounds, he continued to fight.
He moved between bunkers under relentless fire, retrieved a grenade launcher, and fired at close range to halt the enemy’s advance. Seeing two wounded comrades stranded in the open, he carried them to safety, ensuring they could receive medical attention.
But his fight was not over. Spotting an enemy machine gun within the perimeter—one that threatened to destroy the entire position—Yabes charged directly at it. Alone and exposed, he eliminated the crew and silenced the weapon.
It was his final act. Mortally wounded, First Sergeant Yabes fell on the battlefield—but not before saving countless lives and inspiring his fellow soldiers to repel the attack.
Post-War Life and Career: Yabes did not live to see the recognition of his extraordinary bravery. In October 1968, his wife and children were presented with the Medal of Honor at the Pentagon by Stanley Resor.
He was laid to rest with full military honors at Fort Logan National Cemetery, where his sacrifice continues to be remembered and honored.
Military Awards and Decorations: First Sergeant Maximo Yabes’ service was marked by numerous awards, reflecting both his courage and dedication:
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Medal of Honor
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Bronze Star Medal (multiple awards)
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Purple Heart
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Army Good Conduct Medal (5 awards)
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National Defense Service Medal
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Vietnam Service Medal with two service stars
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Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm
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Vietnam Campaign Medal
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Combat Infantryman Badge
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Parachutist Badge
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Expert Marksmanship Badge (Rifle and Pistol)
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Additional service insignia and commendations
His name is also forever etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, ensuring his sacrifice will never be forgotten.
The story of Maximo Yabes is one of extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and devotion to others. In the face of overwhelming danger, he chose to protect, to fight, and ultimately to give his life so that others might live.
His legacy endures not only in medals and memorials but in the lives he saved and the inspiration he provides to generations of soldiers and civilians alike. First Sergeant Yabes represents the very essence of valor—a reminder that true heroism is measured not by survival, but by the willingness to stand for others at any cost.