On February 12, 1969, Austin's observation post near Da Nang was attacked by a large North Vietnamese force.

While participating in combat 6 ½ miles west of Da Nang on February 23, 1969, Austin was killed in action.

During the early morning hours on February 23, 1969, PFC Austin's observation post came under a fierce ground attack by a large North Vietnamese Army force using a heavy volume of hand grenades, satchel charges, and small arms fire.

Although he was badly injured, Austin turned to help his fallen companion and saw a North Vietnamese soldier aiming a weapon at the unconscious man.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Marine Corps.