Biography

First Lieutenant Stephen H. Doane is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Doane was serving as a platoon leader in Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division in the Hau Nghia Province of the Republic of Vietnam. On 25 March 1969, his company was engaged in tactical operations when they made contact with an enemy force concealed in protected bunkers and trenches. Three of the leading soldiers were pinned down by enemy crossfire. After the efforts of the 1st Platoon to rescue these men failed, it became obvious that only a small group could successfully move close enough to destroy the enemy position and rescue the trapped soldiers. First Lieutenant Doane, fully aware of the danger of such an action, crawled to the nearest enemy bunker and destroyed it. He was wounded and continued to advance to a second enemy bunker. As he prepared to throw another grenade, he was wounded again. Undaunted, he deliberately pulled the pin on the grenade and lunged into the enemy bunker, destroying this final obstacle. First Lieutenant Doane's supreme act enabled his company to rescue the trapped men without further casualties. The extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by this officer was an inspiration to his men and are in the highest traditions of the United States Army Rangers.