Period:

Vietnam War (1955-1975)

Rank:

2nd Lieutenant

Citation:
"On 14 February 1966 Second Lieutenant Dowden was serving as leader of a forward observer party when his company received intense hostile fire from a well-fortified Viet Cong force. Dauntlessly, Lieutenant Dowden exposed himself to the intense hostile fire to effectively direct the return fire of his men and counterattack the insurgents. During the course of the mission a claymore mine was detonated which severely wounded his company commander. Although painfully wounded himself, Lieutenant Dowden went to the aid of his commander, and attempted to shield him from intense sniper fire. While rendering first aid, a second claymore mine was detonated, severely injuring Lieutenant Dowden."