He arrived in South Vietnam in February 1969 as a Stretcher Bearer with B Company.
On 15 August 1969, Private Waite was with 4 Platoon when enemy were contacted in bunkers. The initial rocket fire hit and seriously wounded the leading scout and Section Commander. The enemy continued to engage the area of the wounded with heavy machine gun fire and rocket fire. Seeing the distress of the wounded members of his platoon, Private Waite, with complete disregard for his own safety, ran forward to render first aid. He was wounded by enemy fire soon after he moved, but despite this, Private Waite continued crawling forward until he reached the wounded members.
Although the wounds received by the Section Commander showed death could be imminent, Private Waite continued giving treatment, under heavy fire, saving the wounded soldier's life.
His actions displayed great personal courage and were a source of inspiration to all ranks of the platoon.