The Most Famous Tunnel Rat, Ranked

Choose the Tunnel Rat you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 23, 2024 07:51
Warfare often presents scenarios where unusual skills become invaluable, such as the ability of tunnel rats during conflicts. These soldiers, tasked with the dangerous job of navigating underground networks, are not widely known but have stories of bravery and expertise that are as intense as any battlefield hero. Highlighting these individuals not only honors their courage but also educates on the unique aspects of historical military operations. By providing a list where users can vote for who they consider the most notable tunnel rat, we foster a participative community interested in sharing knowledge and perspectives on these brave individuals. This interactive setup allows users to engage with history in a meaningful way, ensuring that the deeds of these soldiers are not forgotten. Each vote helps to paint a clearer picture of the most impactful tunnel rats, as seen through the eyes of the public.

Who Is the Most Famous Tunnel Rat?

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    Howard V. Lee

    Howard V. Lee

    Received the Medal of Honor for his actions in Vietnam, reflecting the valor and risk-taking seen in Tunnel Rat missions.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Branch: United States Marine Corps
  2. 2
    1
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    Charles S. Kettles

    Charles S. Kettles

    U.S. Army aviator who served during the Vietnam War, supported Tunnel Rat missions by providing aerial support and extraction.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Branch: United States Army
  3. 3
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    William Maud Bryant

    Special Forces soldier awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Vietnam, indicative of the bravery required in Tunnel Rat missions.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Branch: United States Army
  4. 4
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    Sammy L. Davis

    Sammy L. Davis

    Highly decorated American soldier known for his service during the Vietnam War, including operations that involved tunnel rat missions.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Service: United States Army
  5. 5
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    Nick Rowe

    Nick Rowe

    U.S. Army officer and one of the longest-held prisoners of war in Vietnam, his survival skills are emblematic of the resilience shown by Tunnel Rats.
    • POW Years: 1963-1973
    • Branch: United States Army
  6. 6
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    Richard A. Pittman

    Richard A. Pittman

    Medal of Honor recipient for his actions in Vietnam, demonstrating the courage and dedication akin to Tunnel Rats.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Branch: United States Marine Corps
  7. 7
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    Clyde A. Thomason

    Clyde A. Thomason

    First enlisted Marine to be awarded the Medal of Honor during World War II, symbolizing the courage and dedication also seen in Vietnam Tunnel Rats.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Conflict: World War II
  8. 8
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    points
    Franklin D. Miller

    Franklin D. Miller

    One of the most decorated soldiers of the Vietnam War, served with distinction in roles that included Tunnel Rat operations.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Branch: United States Army
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    Jon Cavaiani

    Jon Cavaiani

    Awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership and bravery in Vietnam, characteristics essential for Tunnel Rats.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Branch: United States Army
  10. 10
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    James Livingston

    James Livingston

    Retired Marine Corps major general awarded the Medal of Honor for his valor during the Vietnam War, including close support of Tunnel Rat operations.
    • Award: Medal of Honor
    • Branch: United States Marine Corps

Missing your favorite Tunnel Rat?

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Tunnel Rat. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Rat is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2017 views
  • 3 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Rat once every 24 hours. The rank of each Rat is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Tunnel Rat

Howard V. Lee
Rank #1 for the most famous Tunnel Rat: Howard V. Lee (Source)
During the Vietnam War, the U.S. faced a unique and deadly challenge. The Viet Cong used an extensive network of tunnels for hiding, transport, and surprise attacks. These tunnels were often small and cramped, making them difficult to navigate. The U.S. needed brave soldiers to enter these tunnels. These soldiers became known as Tunnel Rats.

Tunnel Rats had a dangerous job. They had to crawl through dark, narrow tunnels. They faced many risks, including booby traps, ambushes, and poisonous creatures. They often carried only a flashlight, a pistol, and a knife. Their mission was to clear the tunnels and gather intelligence.

The Tunnel Rats had to be small and agile. They needed to stay calm under pressure. They had to trust their instincts. They also had to rely on their training. They learned to detect traps and hidden enemies. They also learned to move quietly and quickly.

These soldiers played a vital role in the war. They helped to disrupt the enemy's plans. They gathered crucial information. They also removed threats that could harm their fellow soldiers. Their efforts saved many lives.

Tunnel Rats did not receive much recognition. Their missions were secretive and dangerous. They often worked alone or in small teams. Their work was physically and mentally exhausting. They faced constant danger and uncertainty.

Despite the lack of recognition, Tunnel Rats showed great bravery. They accepted their missions without hesitation. They knew the risks, but they chose to serve. They demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience.

The legacy of the Tunnel Rats lives on. Their story is a testament to human bravery and determination. They faced incredible odds and overcame them. Their contributions were invaluable to the war effort.

Today, many people admire the Tunnel Rats. They respect their courage and dedication. Their story continues to inspire new generations. The Tunnel Rats remain a symbol of heroism and sacrifice. They remind us of the extraordinary things ordinary people can achieve.

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