Vietnam War Medal of Honor Recipient. He received the award posthumously (presented to this family) from Secretary of the Navy Paul R. Ignatius on April 16, 1968 at the Marine Barracks, Washington DC, for his actions as a private first class with the 2nd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade, 3rd Marine Division, on March 26, 1967, near Gio An, Quang Tri Provence, South Vietnam. After graduating from high school, he first enlisted with the US Marine Corps Reserve in December 1965, then joined the regular US Marine Corps four months later. After receiving recruit and combat training, he was sent to South Vietnam and saw combat action against the Viet Cong during Operations Prairie, Deckhouse, DeSoto and Beacon Hill, the latter of which he was killed in action when he threw himself upon a live enemy grenade. He was also awarded the Purple Heart (with two gold stars). His Medal of Honor citation reads: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While participating in Operation Beacon Hill 1, the 2d Platoon was engaged in a fierce battle with the Viet Cong at close-range in dense jungle foliage. Pfc. Dickey had come forward to replace a radio operator who had been wounded in this intense action and was being treated by a medical corpsman. Suddenly an enemy grenade landed in the midst of a group of marines, which included the wounded radio operator who was immobilized. Fully realizing the inevitable result of his actions, Pfc. Dickey, in a final valiant act, quickly and unhesitatingly threw himself upon the deadly grenade, absorbing with his body the full and complete force of the explosion. Pfc. Dickey's personal heroism, extraordinary valor and selfless courage saved a number of his comrades from certain injury and possible death at the cost of his life. His actions reflected great credit upon himself, the Marine Corps, and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."