Clarence E. Sasser, a former U.S. Army combat medic and a revered recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, passed away on May 13, 2024, at the age of 76. A Texas native and a cherished member of the Texas A&M University community, Sasser’s bravery during the Vietnam War and subsequent life of service cemented his legacy as an American hero.
Born on September 12, 1947, in Chenango, Texas, Sasser was one of only eight Aggies to have received the nation’s highest military decoration and the last living Aggie recipient of the Medal of Honor prior to his death. His valor in combat and dedication to his fellow soldiers shone brightly during a reconnaissance mission in Dinh Tuong Province on January 10, 1968. In the face of a fierce enemy attack that left more than 30 of his comrades wounded within minutes, Sasser displayed extraordinary courage.
Despite sustaining wounds that immobilized his legs, Sasser dragged himself across muddy terrain to tend to his injured comrades. His official Medal of Honor citation recounts, “Although in agonizing pain and faint from loss of blood, [Sasser] reached the man, treated him, and proceeded on to encourage another group of soldiers to crawl 200 meters to relative safety.” He administered aid for five hours until evacuation was possible.
Sasser’s remarkable heroism was recognized by President Richard M. Nixon, who presented him with the Medal of Honor on March 7, 1969. Reflecting on the significance of this honor, Sasser humbly commented, “It was confirmation to me that I did my job, and that’s how I had to deal with it because, what’s my job? I don’t think what I did was above and beyond. I never have.”
After his military service, Sasser continued his education, earning a degree in Chemistry. He later worked for an oil refinery and dedicated himself to supporting fellow veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs until his retirement. He also received an honorary Doctorate of Letters from Texas A&M and the Core Values Coin Award from The Association of Former Students. Brazoria County, his home county, celebrated Clarence Sasser Day on March 27, 1969, and a statue of Sasser stands as part of a veterans memorial in front of the Brazoria County Courthouse.
Texas A&M President Gen. (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh III praised Sasser’s embodiment of Aggie values. “This great Aggie repeatedly showed unwavering bravery in the face of danger as a combat medic in Vietnam,” Welsh stated. “His legacy will continue to inspire patriotic Americans for generations to come and his name is permanently woven into the fabric of this remarkable university. Aggies will celebrate him forever.”
Sasser’s contributions extend beyond his military heroism, he leaves behind a legacy of integrity, service, and an unwavering commitment to his nation and fellow veterans. Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp added, “Clarence brought honor to his country, his family and to Texas A&M. We are so proud to count him as one of our sons of Texas A&M.”
Relevant articles:
– Medal Of Honor Recipient, Former Student Dies At 76, Texas A&M Today
– Congressional Medal of Honor Society Announces Passing of Medal of Honor Recipient Clarence E. Sasser, Congressional Medal of Honor Society
– Congressional Medal of Honor Society Announces Passing of Medal of Honor Recipient Clarence E. Sasser, Army.mil
– Aggie Medal of Honor recipient Clarence Sasser dies at 76, Bryan College Station Eagle