Mangano Family Funeral Homes will donate funeral services for Medal of Honor recipient Private First Class Garfield Langhorn, a Vietnam War hero whose selfless sacrifice saved fellow soldiers during combat.
A graveside service with full military honors will be held Friday, July 3, at 10:30 a.m. at Calverton National Cemetery. Family members, veterans, elected officials, and community residents are invited to attend and pay tribute to one of America's most courageous servicemen.
Langhorn served as a radio operator with Troop C near Plei Djereng in Vietnam's Pleiku Province. On April 15, 1969, his platoon was sent to recover two American pilots after their Cobra helicopter was shot down.
While evacuating the pilots, the platoon came under heavy attack from North Vietnamese forces concealed in camouflaged bunkers. Langhorn maintained critical radio communications with supporting aircraft while helping defend the perimeter, providing covering fire and protecting wounded soldiers throughout the fierce battle.
As enemy forces intensified their assault, a grenade landed near several wounded Americans. Langhorn immediately threw himself onto the grenade, sacrificing his own life to save his comrades.
He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty.
"It is an extraordinary honor for our family and our funeral home to provide these services for Pfc. Garfield Langhorn," said Sal Mangano of Mangano Family Funeral Homes. "His courage, selflessness, and willingness to lay down his life for his fellow soldiers represent the very best of America. We are humbled to help ensure he receives the dignified tribute he has so rightfully earned."
Mangano Family Funeral Homes said it remains committed to honoring veterans and military families whose service and sacrifice have protected the nation's freedoms.
Family-owned for more than 115 years, Mangano Family Funeral Homes provides compassionate funeral and memorial services throughout Long Island. More information is available at www.manganofh.com