SSgt Clifford C. Sims served his country during its time of need and made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms of this nation. Sims was born on June 18, 1942 in Port St. Joe, FL. In 1955, James and Irene Sims adopted the homeless youth and raised him as their own son.

He attended high school in Port St. Joe, where he met his wife Mary. He joined the U.S. Army in 1961 and began his time of service in Jacksonville, Florida. He remained in the United States for six years before going to Vietnam in December 1967. Sims served as a Staff Sergeant in Company D, Second Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division near Hue in the Republic of Vietnam.

On February 21, 1968, Sims led a twelve-man squadron to relieve the 1st platoon under the command of Major Cleo Hogan. Sims led his men through intense enemy fire and sacrificed himself by jumping on a concealed booby trap. He saved the lives of at least six men including Major Cleo Hogan and close friend George Parker. Vice President Spiro Agnew posthumously awarded him the Medal of Honor for this courageous act.

On August 22, 2003, the state of Florida dedicated and named a veteran's nursing home in honor of Sims in Springfield, Florida. Governor Jeb Bush presided over the dedication to commemorate the life and courageous actions of the fallen hero. SSgt Clifford C. Sims served his country whole- heartedly and gave his life to preserve the rights and freedoms that Americans hold dear.

Researched and written by Kathleen Zielinski.