Signal Mountain resident Larry Taylor, a distinguished veteran who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor in September for his heroic actions during a 1968 helicopter rescue in the Vietnam War, passed away on Sunday at the age of 81. Taylor, a retired Army captain and native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, leaves behind a legacy of bravery and service to his country.
The Congressional Medal of Honor Society announced the passing of Larry L. Taylor on January 28, 2024, at his home in Signal Mountain, Tennessee. His remarkable courage and selflessness will forever be remembered and honored by the nation.
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., presented Taylor with the Medal of Honor at the White House in Washington, D.C., on September 5, 2023, in recognition of his extraordinary valor near the village of Ap Go Cong, Binh Du’ong Providence, Vietnam.
A Distinguished Military Career
Born on February 12, 1942, Taylor was a graduate of Chattanooga High School and later pursued his education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he participated in the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Program. Following his graduation in June 1966, he was commissioned as an Army second lieutenant and subsequently volunteered for the regular Army in August. Taylor completed helicopter training at Fort Wolters, Texas, and Fort Novosel (formerly Fort Rucker, Alabama).
Throughout his illustrious military career, Taylor flew over 2,000 combat missions during the Vietnam War. He initially served as a pilot for the UH-1 Huey helicopter and later became one of the first AH-1 Cobra helicopter pilots. His exceptional dedication and bravery earned him numerous accolades and made a lasting impact on the nation.
A Lasting Legacy
Captain Larry Taylor’s passing marks the end of an era for Tennessee and the nation. His unwavering commitment to duty and his extraordinary acts of heroism will forever be etched in the annals of American history. The state and the country mourn the loss of a true American hero, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
