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Private First Class, United States Marine Corps., Company H, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, Near Vanderfrift Combat Base Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. Killed in action, August 7, 1969.

Shouting directions to the Marines around him, Pfc. Carter then commenced to lead them from the path of the rapidly approaching brush fire when he observed a hostile grenade land between him and his companions. Fully aware of the consequences of his action but determined to protect the men following him, he unhesitatingly threw himself over the grenade, absorbing the full effects of its detonation with his body. Pfc. Carter's indomitable courage, inspiring initiative and selfless devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gave his life in the service of his country".

Citation: "For conspicuous gallentry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as grenadier with Company H in connection with combat operations against the enemy. Pfc. Carter's unit was maneuvering against the enemy during Operation Idaho Canyon and came under a heavy volume of fire from a numerically superior hostile force. The lead element soon became separated from the main body of the squad by a brush fire. Pfc. Carter and his fellow marines were pinned down by vicous crossfire when with complete disregard for his safety he stood up in full view of the North Vietnamese Army soldiers to deliver a devasting volume of fire at their positions. The accuracy and aggressiveness of his attack caused several enemy casualities and forced the remainder of the soldiers to retreat from the immediate area.

He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.