Finally, beyond the medal citations, all U.S. Navy documents indicate hostile fire during the action.

Kerry's medal citation indicates that he charged into an ambush, killing an enemy preparing to launch a rocket.

According to the History Channel, the medal citation noted his ability to "quickly and precisely complete the firing procedure."

The medal citation notes that Kerry "then led an assault party and conducted a sweep of the area" until the enemy had "been completely routed."

The Navy's account of Kerry's actions is presented in his medal citation:

His medal citation noted "He handled his group with great skill and daring.

His medal citation was "For meritorious services before the enemy."

His heroic efforts are recounted below in the official medal citation:

Cronin's actions were said, in his medal citation, to have "very greatly helped" the success of the attack.

"Fire it," began Lieutenant Fox's last communication, described in his medal citation.