Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

The 502nd, or “five-oh-deuce”, was activated July 1, 1941 at Fort Benning, Georgia as the 502nd parachute infantry battalion, as an experimental unit formed to test the doctrine and tactics of parachute assaults. The 502nd entered combat in World War II on June 6, 1944, by jumping into Normandy, with allied forces landing on D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. Between 1945 and 1964. A major reorganization took place on 3 February 1964, when the 2nd Brigade of the 101st Airborne was activated at Fort Campbell, replacing the 1st Airborne Battle Group, 501st Infantry Regiment. The reorganization from the battle groups to brigades and battalions placed two battalions of the 502nd in different brigades of the 101st. The 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry was in the 1st Brigade with 1-327th and 2-327th Infantry. Which deployed to Vietnam and arrived at Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam on 29 July 1965, they were commanded by the most notable commander LTC Hank “The Gunfighter” Emerson. The new 2nd Brigade’s original organic battalions were the 1st and 2d Battalions, 501st Infantry, and the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry. December 1967 the 501st, 502nd and 2nd Brigade deployed by C-141 aircraft and arrived at Bien Hoa Airbase on 13 December 1967. Over the next five years, Soldiers of the “Ready to Go” Brigade participated in twelve campaigns, compiling of a distinguished combat record as well as an enviable reputation for success in the rehabilitation of a war-torn nation. The Brigade redeployed to Fort Campbell in April 1972.

STRIKE

Vietnam War Weekly History

July 9th – July15th, 2017

Brief History of the 501st, 502nd and 2nd Brigade (101st ABN DIV)

Issue: 56

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

During this week, in the span of 8 years since the 501st Infantry Regiment, 502nd Infantry Regiment and

2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division deployed in support of the Vietnam War the following are from

After Action Reports, Staff Duty Logs, and Personal Accounts.

09 July 1967 Operation MALHEUR: Three light contacts by the 2-502 IN BN resulted in 3 US WHA, 2 VC KIA (C), 11 detainees and 1

individual weapon captured. 09 July 1968 The 1-502 IN BN had light sporadic contact throughout the AO. PF's combined with US in joint operation including 2

separate CA's. The results were 3 VC KIA, 10 VC captured, 3 Hoi Chanh, and numerous caches and equipment discovered.

09 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: Four of A/1-502 IN MIA’s were found unharmed, 6 KIA and 2 WIA. A/1-502 IN and B/1-502 IN

continued to search the area. Results: 6 NVA KIA by SA. 4 IWC, 1 CSWC. D/1-502 IN continued security at old Hau Duc. 09 July 1969 Activity quieted in the area as the 1-502 IN BN linked up with its separated element an assessed the battlefield after the

previous day’s contact. 09 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: 2-502 IN BN moved by air from FSB Bastogne to Quang Tri, and then to FSB Sheppard where

they reopened the firebase. The STRIKE Force continued to operate around FSB Sheppard, employing artillery and mortars with their extensive sweeps with negative casualties for the enemy or the US.

09 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: B/1-502 IN, 3rd platoon found a shelter half about two to three days old. It was located at

YD856050. 09 July 1971 D/1-501 IN, 1st platoon vicinity 893980 found 2 NA KIA’s practically burned on West of Highway 545, bodies 4-5 days old.

Fish and rice on road nearby where D/1-502 IN MA detonated. 09 July 1971 B/1-501 IN, 3rd platoon vicinity YD920007 detonated a BBT unknown type and unknown firing device. Results 2 US WIA. 10 July 1967 Operation MALHEUR: 2-502 IN BN less one company left under the operational control of the 2-502 IN BN, conducted

airmobile assaults into the southeastern portion of extended ZON AO and commenced search and destroy operations in Base Area 124, 10 tons of rice were discovered and extracted. Seven light contacts by the 2-502 IN BN (reinforced) resulted in 7 VC 1(A (C) and capture of 3 detainees and 1 individual weapon.

10 July 1968 The 1-502 IN BN conducted full scale operation with PF's, making 2 CA's, the enemy was elusive. Several weapons were

found, 4 NVA KIA and 1 VC KIA. 10 July 1968 Paratroopers of A/2-501 IN destroyed 10 enemy sampans in a no boating zone of the Song Bo River 7km west of FSB T-

Bone. A/2-501 IN also captured one tone of rice. (Rendezvous with Destiny (Volume 1, Number 3); Fall 1968) 10 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: Activity was light throughout the AO as 1-502 IN BN reported scattered contact with small

enemy forces. At 1040H, B/1-502 IN, vicinity BS043995, captured 1 NVA who wandered into the company position as it waited near an LZ. At 1443H, D/1-502 IN, vicinity BS040999, engaged a small enemy force and in the ensuing fire fight suffered 3 US WIA; there was negative enemy assessment. At 1600H, A/1-502 IN, vicinity BS037991, found a hooch and bunker complex containing tow individual weapons.

10 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: A/1-502 IN found 1 MIA KIA from 8 July event, vicinity BS042999. B/1-502 IN employed

organic weapons, Artillery and ARA against an unknown size enemy element vicinity BT049003 with negative assessment. B/1-502 IN, 1st platoon accounted for 1 NVA POW vicinity BT049003. D/1-502 IN made contact with an enemy element which employed SA, grenades and 60mm mortar resulting in 1 US KIA, 5 US WIA.

10 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: B/1-502 IN had a soldier wounded on FSB Birmingham during the mad minute fire. He was

located at bunker #12. The 191 RF company location YD778021 came under SA fire and satchel charges. The results were one VN KIA and nine VN WIA.

10 July 1970 Beginning at 0735H, FSB Ripcord was attacked by fire on eight separate occasions during the day. The enemy employed

60mm and 82mm mortar and 75mm recoilless rifle fires, resulting in two US KIA and 17 US WIA. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; Operation Report; Period Ending 31 July 1970; 15 August 1970)

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

10 - 17 July 1970 FSB Ripcord: On July 10, A/2-506 IN combat assaulted from FSB O’Reilly to relieve pressure against Ripcord. Joining A/2-506 IN on the 12th in a two-pronged ground assault on Hill 805 was D/2-501 IN (Delta Raiders), commanded by CPT Christopher Straub and now under operational control of the 2-506 IN BN. After some minor skirmishes, Hill 805 was seized by Alpha and Delta. They dug in, expecting the worst.

At 2230H that night, four enemy columns, led by black-painted sappers, slammed into the defenders on Hill 805. The Americans slammed back. The enemy was stopped in his tracks by U.S. artillery and mortar fire, shredded in a murderous crossfire of rifles, machine guns and grenade launchers, and turned away. Blood smeared the approaches to Hill 805, but it was NVA blood, not American. Battered, but undeterred, the NV continued their costly assaults against Hill 805 for four more nights. D/2-501 IN stayed to defend the key hilltop, relieving some of the pressure on Ripcord and buying valuable time for its defenders. “It was costly,” recalled SGT Ray Blackman, “but many of our wounded refused evacuation, preferring to stay to fight alongside their friends.” When they were finally withdrawn on July 17, Straub’s company strength had been cut in half. Meanwhile, the remainder of 2-501 IN BN (Geronimo’s), commanded by LTC Otis Livingston, air-assaulted near Hill 1000. Leading with his battalion scouts and following with A/2-501 IN, B/2-501 IN and C/2-501 IN in echelon, LTC Livingston led his battalion up the backside of this VA-infested stronghold. Four times Livingston’s battalion attacked uphill against fierce opposition, and four times it was turned back by superior numbers of enemy troops. Each time the Geronimo’s retaliated with fighter-bomber air strikes and Cobra rocket attacks. But it was no use. On the 17th, LTC Livingston and his exhausted soldiers were withdrawn. Taking the place of the Geronimo’s was a single rifle company from the 1-506 IN BN.—D Company, commanded by Capt. Don Workman.

10 July 1971 COL Thomas A. Ware Jr. assumed command of the 2BDE of the 101st ABN DIV. 10 July 1971 A/1-501 IN, 1st platoon vicinity 888973 took small arms fire from South of NDP, results 1 US WIA. 11 July 1967 Operation MALHEUR: The Reconnaissance platoon of the 2-502 IN (reinforced) engaged an estimated VC company

armed with mortars, 57mm recoilless rifles and small arms, Artillery, flare ships and gunships supported the operation and one other company was maneuvered to reinforce. Results were 2 US KHA, 18 US WHA; 1 VC KIA (C) and 1 AK-47 captured. A search of the area at daylight revealed 24 newly dug positions and numerous bloody trails, bandages, and bloody clothing. A Prisoner of War captured the following day revealed that the contact had been made with the elements of the 90th Battalion, 1st VC Regiment. Five other light contacts by the 2-502 IN BN resulted in 8 VC KIA (C) and 1 individual weapon captured.

11 July 1968 Operations continued with D/1-502 IN securing An Lo and working with dozer. C/1-502 IN searching vicinity YD6530 for

caches. Other units conducted search and clear operations. Light contact with 1 VC KIA and 2 Hoi Chanh’s. Th Hoi Chanh said they had given up because of the Rome plow and eagle flights. They said 20 other VC fled to the mountains, that day.

11 July 1969 101st Airborne Division Support Command elements reopened the FSSE facilities in the 1BDE area of Camp Eagle to

provide logistical support to 2BDE units participating in Operation Campbell Streamer. Corregidor Hook Pad once again became a center of resupply activity, as the 2d FSSE funneled supplies through Corregidor to units deployed in the Bach Ma area on this operation.

11 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: A/1-502 IN RIF west and found 1 NVA KIA and 1 rocket launcher vicinity BS042994. B/1-502

IN RIF same general area and D/1-502 IN RIF west accounting for 10 detainee’s vicinity BT042002. 11 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: At 0700H, A/1-502 IN, vicinity BS042994, found 1 NVA KIA in an earlier fire fight. 11 July 1970 Operation CLINCH VALLEY: 1-501 IN BN moved from FS/OB Veghel to Phu Bai Combat Base, assumed the mission of

DRF, and prepared for refresher training. The 2-501 IN BN moved from FS/OB Ripcord and vicinity, to Camp Evans, the refit and prepare for redeployment against elements of the 803rd NVA Regiment, vicinity FS/OB Ripcord. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; Operation Report; Period Ending 31 July 1970; 15 August 1970)

11 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: C/1-502 IN, 2nd platoon found a bunker about six months old at 691062. Huong Thu had 11

people killed and 35 wounded in an accident involving a fragment grenade at a training center. C/1-502 IN located a cache of 36 rounds of 82mm ammo.

11 July 1971 C/1-501 IN vicinity YD067029 found NE/SW high speed trail along with sleeping bunkers. Negative contact activity for two

months. 12 July 1967 Operation MALHEUR: Eight light contacts by the 2-502 IN BN (reinforced) resulted in 6 VC KIA (C), 12 detainees and

capture of 1 individual weapon.

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

12 July 1968 D/1-502 IN continued Rome plow operations south of An Lo on the west side of the river. They continued to destroy bunkers, buildings and found small caches. A/1-502 IN, B/1-502 IN, and C/1-502 IN continued search and destroy operations with light contact. A/1-502 IN had 2 US WIA by BBT. B/1-502 IN found excess of a ton of rice and captured 1 VC, vicinity YD7132. One Hoi Chanh, turned himself into B/1-502 IN.

12 July 1968 B/1-502 IN, Recon, and PF’s established cordon around village in vicinity YD6438, with Sweet Banner 65 to sweep from

the south. The totals were B/1-502 IN: 4 VC KIA, 4 WPNs; PF’s 19 VC KIA, 16 WPNs, 4 VC Captured, 2 VCS. D/1-502 IN continued Rome plow operations while Charlie Company found 5 tons of rice.

12 July 1969 Activity increased in the AO as the 1-501 IN BN reported light contact and a Brigade LOH reconnaissance team recorded

significant contact. At 1140H, B/1-501 IN, vicinity BS258967, observed and engaged 1 enemy recording 1 VC KIA. At 1350H, B/1-501 IN, vicinity BS258965, found the remains of 1 VC NVA by an earlier airstrike.

12 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: A/1-502 IN, B/1-502 IN and C/1-502 IN continued to RIF with no significant action. 12 July 1969 Operation CAMPBELL STREAMER: 2BDE, 101st ABN DIV and 54th ARVN Regiment begin Operation CAMPBELL

STREAMER to clear Elephant Valley south of the Bach Ma Mountain, Thua Thien Province. 12 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: 158th PF platoon found one female VN KIA after dark. 1-502 IN BN, Recon platoon team A

discovered caves with old C-Ration cans, complexes and three bunkers. They showed no signs of recent use. 12 July 1970 Operation CLINCH VALLEY: The 2-501 IN BN assaulted into the vicinity of YD3519 and YD3118 and began attacks to

the south and south east. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; Operation Report; Period Ending 31 July 1970; 15 August 1970) 12 July 1970 Operation CLINCH VALLEY: At 2222H, vicinity YD3622188 (Hill 805, B/2-501 IN while in their NDP, received 30 to 40

RPG rounds and small arms fire, form an enemy force, 250 meters to the northeast. The company returned organic weapons fire, ARA, air strikes and a flareship were employed. Sixteen US WIA. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; Operation Report; Period Ending 31 July 1970; 15 August 1970)

13 July 1967 Operation MALHEUR: Four light contacts by the 2-502 IN BN (reinforced) resulted in 3 VC KIA (C) and capture of 2

detainees. One company of the 1-327 IN BN conducted an airmobile displacement and assumed the security mission of CHAMPS Fire Base under operational control of the 2-502 IN BN (reinforced).

13 July 1968 2BDE troopers continued to rob the enemy of their stolen rice by capturing 8300 pounds of enemy held rice. (Rendezvous

with Destiny (Volume 1, Number 3); Fall 1968) 13 July 1968 B/1-502 IN, Recon and PF’s established cordon around village in vicinity YD6438, with Sweet Banner 65 to sweep from

the south. The totals were: B/1-502 IN with 4 VC KIA, 4 Weapons; PF’s with 19 VC KIA, 16 weapons, 4 VC captured, 2 VCS; D/1-502 IN continued Rome plow work. C/1-502 IN found 5 tons of rice.

13 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: A/1-502 IN maintained blocking positions and conducted local patrols vicinity BT066011. B/1-

502 IN conducted local patrols from a base vicinity BT056021. C/1-502 IN made a C/A from FSSE to LZ BT088023 and RIF west. D/1-502 IN maintained a patrol base vicinity BT051014. Recon platoon made a C/A from FSSE to LZ BT088023 and RIF to west. At 2052H Recon observed 5 to 10 enemy approaching NDP and engaged the enemy with SA and grenades. Negative assessment.

13 – 31 July 1969 Operation CAMPBELL STREAMER: was initiated at 130600H with the combat assault of 2-502 IN BN into FB SLEDGE

(ZC 063927) followed by the 1-54 and 3-54 ARVN Battalions into their respective landing zones. This attack was aimed against the 4th NVA Regiment in the Bach Ma Region. A two-phased operation – the first phase a reconnaissance in zone to the north by the three assaulting elements to locate and destroy the enemy forces on the north side of the Bach Ma. Contact was very light during the first phase. The second phase commenced on 27 July with the deployment of 1-327 to a screening position south of the Bach Ma in Elephant Valley, and the three maneuver battalions reoriented to the south. On 28 July elements of the 1-54 ARVN Battalion made the first significant contact by killing 27 NVA and capturing 22 individuals and 9 crew-served weapons. This operation continues with the maneuver elements conducting detailed searches in zone and the 1-327 IN BN screening to the south. Results as of 31 July were: 51 NVA/VC KIA, 1 NVA POW, 27 individual and 14 crew-served weapons captured. (HQ, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile); Operational Report – Lesson Learned, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) for period ending 31 July 1969; 09 December 1969)

13 July 1969 Operation CAMPBELL STREAMER: Well-coordinated air assaults into the Bach Ma region are conducted by the 2-502

IN BN in conjunction with elements of the 54th ARVN Regt. Fire Base Sledge is constructed by the 326th Engr. Bn (Ambl) on the side of a French resort area atop the 4500-foot mountains. Aimed at the destruction of the 4th NVA Regt., elements of the 2BDE maneuvered to the north and south in areas surrounding the fire base.

13 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: 257th RF Company engaged an unknown number of VC/NVA with light casualties on the RF

unit and unknown enemy casualties. A helicopter took ground fire at 816056 today. The area was shelled with artillery and will be swept later. D/1-502 IN, 3rd platoon found a grave approximately two months old at 778022.

14 July 1967 Operation MALHEUR: Five light contacts by the 2-502 IN BN (reinforced) resulted in 5 VC KIA (C) and capture of 1

individual weapon.

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

14 July 1968 A/1-502 IN continued RIF’s vicinity YD6026 to YD 6128; the company had 2 US WIA by BBT. B/1-502 IN and Recon, CA’d to YD6929 and YD7029, and continued search and clear operations. C/1-502 IN searched and cleared vicinity YD6630. Sweet Banner 65 vicinity YD6334 had contact, killed 7 VC and captured 2 VC. They also found 12 AK44’s in one cache.

14 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: A/1-502 IN maintained a blocking position vicinity BT066011. B/1-502 IN maintained a

blocking position BT062021. C/2-501 IN maintained a blocking position vicinity BT054017. D/1-502 IN was extracted from the field to FSSE for stand-down. Recon platoon RIF to east and vicinity BT077021 engaged 2 VC resulting in 2 VC KIA.

14 July 1969 Activity was light in the AO as all units continued RIF and search operations, uncovering numerous enemy KIA from

previous contacts and air/artillery strikes. At 1020H, B/1-501 IN, vicinity BS268965, found 10 graves with the remains of 10 NVA KIA in earlier air strikes.

14 July 1970 Operation CLINCH VALLY: at 0203H, vicinity YD362188, D/2-501 IN while in their NDP position on Hill 805, again

received RPG and small arms fire from an enemy force, 20 meters northeast of their position. The element returned organic weapons fire and employed M55 .50 caliber fire (Quad 50) from FSB Ripcord, and 81mm mortar fire, air strikes and ARA. Contact terminated at 0307H and a first light check of the area revealed five NVA KIA. The company suffered six KIA and nine WIA. At 2253H the company received small arms fire, RPG fire and satchel charges, and at 0159H, received thirty-seven 82mm mortar rounds, impacting around their NDP. Organic weapons, ARA, tube artillery and mortar fire was employed against the enemy. One US was KIA. At first light sweep revealed numerous blood trails. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; Operation Report; Period Ending 31 July 1970; 15 August 1970)

14 July 1970 Operation CLINCH VALLEY: A/2-501 IN, B/2-501 IN and Recon platoon in yet another attempt to eject the enemy from Hil

1000, was engaged by RPG, small arms fire and mortar fire, resulting in one US KIA and 20 WIA. Organic weapons, ARA, tube artillery and air strikes were employed against enemy positions and well-fortified bunkers on the hill. Partial sweeps of the area revealed five NVA KIA. Elements withdrew to the vicinity of YD325189, where, at 1715H, they received 82mm mortar fire without casualties. Artillery was employed on the suspected enemy location. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; Operation Report; Period Ending 31 July 1970; 15 August 1970)

14 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: MP’s found VC propaganda leaflets at the edge of Hue City. C/1-502 IN, 3rd platoon found a

122mm rocket extension piece at 787017. It appeared to be about four to six months old. 14 July 1971 B/1-501 IN, 1st platoon vicinity YD930005 found one bunker 2 ½ x 3 x 5’ with 9” overhead coverage. No recent activity

results bunker destroyed. 15 July 1967 Operation MALHEUR: The 2-502 IN BN (reinforced) had three light contacts resulting in 4 VC KIA (C) and capture of 3

detainees. 15 July 1968 1-502 IN BN continued operations in the same locations. The enemy is becoming more evasive and less willing to fight.

This day they had little enemy activity. 2 Hoi Chanh’s turned themselves into PF’s. 15 July 1968 Operation NEVADA EAGLE: B/1-327 IN released from OPCON. B/2-502 IN and D/2-502 IN made sporadic contact with

enemy throughout this period. 15 July 1968 Rice caches dominated the action for the Division as paratroopers from the 2BDE continued to pour tonnage onto the

operational total. Today the rice hungry troopers added four more tons to raise the total to 291 tons. (Rendezvous with Destiny (Volume 1, Number 3); Fall 1968)

15 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: Contact was sporadic throughout LAMAR PLAIN as all units continued to seek the enemy

with 1-501 IN BN uncovering numerous enemy KIA from earlier air/artillery strikes. At 0904H, B/1-501 IN, vicinity BS260972, found the remains of 1 NVA in a grave. At 1100H, D/1-501 IN, vicinity BS261976, found two small huts, one of which contained the remains of 1 NVA KIA by an earlier air strike and a US Browning automatic rifle. At 1125H, A/1-502 IN, vicinity BT067013, engaged 1 NVA soldier with small arms, resulting in 1 NVA KIA and 1 AK47 captured.

15 July 1969 Operation LAMAR PLAIN: A/1-502 IN RIF to the northeast and engaged 1 NVA with SA. Results: 1 NVA KIA, 1 AK-47, 1

rucksack with 1 set of khakis,1 NVA poncho and 1 canteen captured. At 1705H, vicinity BT81014, A/1-502 IN found 7 detainees, 3 women and 4 children. Detainees stated that 3 VC fled south. A/1-502 IN employed artillery with negative assessment. NDP established at this location. B/1-502 IN RIF east vicinity BT071020 and established a NDP. D/1-502 IN remained at FSSE. Recon platoon RIF west to vicinity BT071020 and established NDP with B/1-502 IN. C/1-502 IN RIF east to vicinity BT071020 and established NDP.

15 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: A mechanical ambush went off at 715103 and the area was checked with negative results

except the discovering of two sets of foot prints heading north. Two men were medevaced from FSB Birmingham today, one with a cut finger and one with possible malaria.

15 July 1970 Operation TEXAS STAR: 2-502 IN BN returned to Camp Eagle for re-fitting in preparation for a new operation. 15 July 1970 Operation CLINCH VALLEY: Operation CLINCH VALLEY was terminated at 1802H. The 2-502 IN BN moved by air from

FS/OB Shepherd to Camp Each, returned to OPCON control of 1BDE and prepared for redeployment. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; Operation Report; Period Ending 31 July 1970; 15 August 1970)

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

15 July 1971 B/1-501 IN, 1st platoon vicinity YD931006 found a hootch with bunker; underneath bunker was 6 x 15 x 5 ½’. Search of surrounding area revealed 1 Ak-47 with 27 rounds in a clip approximately 15’ NW of the bunker on a 3’ wide trail which ran NW/SE.

15 July 1971 B/1-501 IN, 1st platoon found 1 NVA body at a bunker vicinity TD929006. Also found 1 AK-47, with full magazine and one

NVA rucksack.

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

During this week, in the span of 8 years since the 501st Infantry Regiment, 502nd Infantry Regiment and

2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division deployed in support of the Vietnam War the following awards were

awarded to the service members during combat operations.

8 x Silver Star Medal (3 x Posthumously) 1 x Soldiers Medal 13 x Bronze Star Medal with Valor (2 x Posthumously) 10 x Bronze Star Medal (10 x Posthumously) 62 x Purple Heart Medal (20 x Posthumously) 3 x Army Commendation Medal with Valor 1 x Died from Non-Hostile Injuries or Illness 09 July 1966 PFC Thomas N. Burke (C/2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in connection with military

operations against a hostile force. (HQ; 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Order Number 391; 13 Aug 1966) 09 July 1966 PFC James E. Fields (C/2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in connection with military

operations against a hostile force. (HQ; 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Order Number 391; 13 Aug 1966) 09 July 1966 PFC Fred D. Sanders (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in connection with

military operations against a hostile force. (HQ; 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Order Number 391; 13 Aug 1966) 09 July 1969 SSG James C. Doloughty (A/1-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for

wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while on combat operation when a hostile force was encountered in Mau Ca, 16km S-SW of Tien Phuoc on 08 July 1969, in the Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam. The casualty database lists the location of Staff Sergeant Doloughty's death as Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam, but as noted he died at the 27th Surgical Hospital in Chu Lai, Quang Tin Province. The village of Hau Duc also is in Quang Tin Province.

09 July 1969 CPL Robert E. King (B/1-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military

merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death while at a night defensive position when the area came under friendly fire by an 81mm mortar attack by a hostile force in the vicinity Mau Ca 15km S-SW of Tien Phuoc, in the Quant Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam.

09 July 1969 SP4 Walter E. Roberts (B/1-502 IN) was awarded the Silver Star Medal, Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal

(Posthumously) for military merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death while at a night defensive position when the area came under friendly fire by an 81mm mortar attack by a hostile force in the vicinity Mau Ca 15km S-SW of Tien Phuoc, in the Quant Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam.

09 July 1969 SP5 Daniel Sullivan (HHC/1-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for

wounds received which resulted in his death while at a night defensive position when the area came under friendly fire by an 81mm mortar attack by a hostile force in the vicinity Mau Ca 15km S-SW of Tien Phuoc, in the Quant Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam.

09 July 1970 SGT Terry E. Williams (E/2-501 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal (Posthumously) when he died from Non-hostile

causes from a weapons accident at or near FSB Ripcord, approximately 24km SW of Phong Dien, in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

10 July 1969 SP4 Elijah W. Burkett (B/2-501 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death from multiple fragmentation wounds while on a combat operation when a hostile force was encountered in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

10 July 1969 SP4 Bobby G. Farmer (D/1-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for

military merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds from 08 July 1969 4km NE of Hau Duc Village in the Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam.

10 July 1970 SP4 Montez R. Hill (D/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during

action in combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8742; 05 August 1970)

11 July 1966 PFC Gilbert E. Black (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in connection with military

operations against a hostile force Republic of Vietnam. (HQ; 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 391; 13 Aug 1966)

11 July 1967 1LT William M. Duncan (HHC 2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received

from metal fragment wounds received from hostile mortar round received while on perimeter defense from an engagement with an NVA company 7km East of Minh Long Airfield.

11 July 1967 PFC Chris S. Evans (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for

wounds received which resulted in his death from gunshot wounds received while on perimeter defense from an engagement with an NVA company 7km East of Minh Long Airfield in the Quang Ngai Province, Republic of Vietnam.

11 July 1967 SP4 David H. Mitchell (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for

wounds received which resulted in his death from gunshot wounds received while on perimeter defense from an engagement with an NVA company 7km East of Minh Long Airfield in the Quang Ngai Province, Republic of Vietnam.

11 July 1969 SGT Robert W. Dean (B/1-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for wounds

received which resulted in his death while on combat operation by friendly fire directed at a hostile force from short artillery round, 4km NE of Hau Duc Village in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

12 July 1966 PFC William Leon (C/2-502 IN) died from Non-hostile while missing, causes “drowned or suffocated” in the Kontum

Province, Republic of Vietnam. 12 July 1968 1LT Randall N. Arney (C/1-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for wounds

received which resulted in his death while on combat operation when hit by fragment from hostile booby trap in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam. Republic of Vietnam.

12 July 1970 PFC Ronald W. Grubidt (HHC/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received

during action in combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8742; 05 August 1970)

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

12 July 1970 The following Soldiers from D/2-501 IN:

SGT Donald E. Spiares SP4 Richard C. Policz SP4 Jay S. Crills Was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during action in combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8742; 05 August 1970)

12 July 1970 PFC Gary D. Gilliland (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received

during action in combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8740, 05 August 1970)

12 July 1970 PFC Eugene N. Paprocky (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during action in combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8740, 05 August 1970)

12 July 1970 The following Soldiers from D/2-501IN:

1LT John D. Shipley SGT James N. Brown SGT James A. Plenderleith SP4 Dennis W. Belt SP4 Coy A. Broxton SP4 Randy C. Davis PFC Barry L. Barnes PFC Larry L. Ertel PFC Lawrence C. Spivey PFC Paul D. Hall Was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during action in combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8740, 05 August 1970)

12 July 1970 SP4 Gary C. Taylor (E/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during

action in combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8740, 05 August 1970)

13 July 1968 SP4 Randall S. Hill (A/1-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military

merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death as a result of burns and wounds received while on combat operation when hit by a blast from a hostile phosphorous booby trap in the Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam. SP4 Hill was admitted to a military hospital, later transferred to the USS Sanctuary and place on the VSI list where he later expired.

14 July 1968 SGT James E. McClafferty (A/1-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for

military merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death while on combat operation when hit by fragment from hostile booby trap in the Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1968 1LT Frank W. Cox Jr. (A/1-502 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for wounds

received which resulted in his death while on combat operation when hit by fragment from hostile booby trap in the Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 SGT Dennis W. Huffine (B/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for

wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds, on Hill 1000 1km West of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 SSG Paul G. Guimond, (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for

wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while at a night defensive position when the area came under attack by a hostile force, on Hill 805, 24 km W of Hue, 1300 meters E-SE of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

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14 July 1970 SSG James T. Hembree Jr. (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while at a night defensive position when the area came under attack by a hostile force, on Hill 805, 24 km W of Hue, 1300 meters E-SE of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 SSG William E. Jones (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for

wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while at a night defensive position when the area came under attack by a hostile force, on Hill 805, 24 km W of Hue, 1300 meters E-SE of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 SGT John L. Keister (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for

military merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while at a night defensive position when the area came under attack by a hostile force, on Hill 805, 24 km W of Hue, 1300 meters E-SE of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 1LT Terry A. Palm (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Silver Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military

merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while at a night defensive position when the area came under attack by a hostile force, on Hill 805, 24 km W of Hue, 1300 meters E-SE of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 SSG Gary L. Schneider (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for

military merit and for wounds received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while at a night defensive position when the area came under attack by a hostile force, on Hill 805, 24 km W of Hue, 1300 meters E-SE of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 CPL Keith E. Utter (C/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (Posthumously) for military merit and for wounds

received which resulted in his death from small arms gun fire wounds while at a night defensive position when the area came under attack by a hostile force, on Hill 805, 24 km W of Hue, 1300 meters E-SE of FSB Ripcord in the Thua Tien Province, Republic of Vietnam.

14 July 1970 The following Soldiers from A/2-501 IN:

1LT James W. Kwiechien 1LT Richard W. Driver SGT Calvin G. Sawer Jr. PFC Robert Schexneider Was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during combat in action against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8740, 05 August 1970)

14 July 1970 1LT Robert W. Layton (B/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal (1-OLC) for military merit and for wounds received during combat in action against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8740, 05 August 1970)

14 July 1970 The following Soldiers from B/2-501 IN:

1LT Robert L. Worrall SP4 Ronald Froley SP4 Jay F. Eiler SP4 Jack L. Richards SP4 William Perez PFC Mike V. Dipinto PFC Dennis Lebrecque Was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during combat in action against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 95th Evacuation Hospital (SMBL); General Orders Number 186; 15 July 1970)

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14 July 1970 The following Soldiers from D/2-501 IN:

SP4 Rodney B. Collins SP4 Bruce A. Chandler Was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during combat in action against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 95th Evacuation Hospital (SMBL); General Orders Number 186; 15 July 1970)

14 July 1970 The following Soldiers from B/2-501 IN:

1LT Victor E. Arnt SGT James L. White SP4 David W. Herron Was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during combat in action against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8742; 05 August 1970)

14 July 1970 PFC Terry Cooper (D/2-501 IN) was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for military merit and for wounds received during

combat in action against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 8742; 05 August 1970)

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STRIKE HISTORY (Citation’s and Awards): 09 July 1967 COL Harry A. Buckley (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action against a hostile force on

9 July 1967 near Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam. On that date information was received that an element of Company A, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 502nd Infantry, had become heavily engaged with an enemy element and pinned down, sustaining two casualties. Colonel Buckley immediately took control of the situation and personally directed an air strike of helicopter gunships to within twenty meters of the friendly positions, allowing the friendly element to pull back and reorganize. Although there was no secure landing zone and the surrounding jungle was infested with enemy soldiers, Colonel Buckley directed his helicopter to land in order to evacuate a seriously wounded man. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Colonel Buckley moved approximately two hundred meters through enemy sniper fire to the location of the wounded man and personally supervised the evacuation. Colonel Buckley remained in the battle area until the wounded man had been safely evacuated and the command and control helicopter returned to his location. Colonel Buckley’s outstanding display of gallantry in action and his devotion to duty and his men are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army. (HQ, AD; General Orders Number 1344; 23 November 1967)

09 July 1967 SP4 John L. Haney (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with military

operations against a hostile force. Specialist Haney distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 9 July 1967 in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a search and destroy mission, Specialist Haney’s platoon was moving across an open area when they were taken under heavy fire form an estimated squad sized enemy element, and pinned down. Specialist Haney, positioned to the rear of the platoon, immediately realized the necessity for more fire power. With complete disregard for his own safety, Specialist Haney rushed through the withering enemy fire and placed suppressive fire into the enemy positions. As Specialist Haney advanced on the enemy positions, he was struck by enemy fire and wounded. Disregarding his own wounds, Specialist Haney continued to assault unit the enemy element was forced to withdraw from the battle area. As a result of Specialist Haney’s actions, numerous lives were saved and his platoon was able to successfully maneuver against the enemy. Specialist Haney’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1st BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1694; 22 August 1967)

09 July 1967 SSG John Jurinsky (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with military

operations against a hostile force. Sergeant Jurinsky distinguished himself by exceptionally valor­ous actions on 9 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. While on a search and destroy mission, Sergeant Jurinsky, acting as platoon sergeant, was moving his platoon across an open area toward a river. As the lead element crossed the river, they were suddenly taken under a heavy volume of enemy fire. As the fire fight progressed, Sergeant Jurinsky realized that the enemy element was attempting to flank the lead element and that they could not observe the enemy maneuver. As Sergeant Jurinsky started to cross the river, he was taken under a heavy volume of enemy fire from automatic weapons. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Jurinsky continued to wade the chest deep water through the heavy enemy fire until he safely reached the other side. Upon reaching the other side of the river, Sergeant Jurinsky quickly organized one of his fire teams and personally led them in an assault of the maneuvering enemy element, killing one enemy soldier and forcing the remainder to flee the battle area. Sergeant Jurinsky Is devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1st BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1674; 19 August 1967)

09 July 1967 SSG Charles E. Payne (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with military

operations against a hostile force. Sergeant Payne distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 July 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam. While acting as platoon leaders for his platoon, Sergeant Payne was moving his men across an open area when they were suddenly taken under a heavy volume of enemy fire and the point element was pinned down. Sergeant Payne immediately attempted to move forward and reorganize the point element but the intensity of the enemy fire increased and he was unable to move. Realizing the lead squad was not moving and the enemy element was closing in, Sergeant Payne, with complete disregard for his own safety, rushed through the bullet swept area and quickly reorganized the point element and the remainder of his platoon. As Sergeant Payne moved among his men, he exposed himself to the heavy enemy fire while directing the platoon’s fire by pointing out the enemy targets. Sergeant Payne, after gaining fire superiority, personally led his platoon in an assault on the enemy positions and succeeded in overrunning them, killing two enemy soldiers, wounding several, and capturing four enemy weapons. Sergeant Payne’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1668; 18 August 1967)

09 July 1967 SP4 Phillip W. Yaklich (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with military

operations against a hostile force. Specialist Yaklich distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 9 July 1967 in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Yaklich was moving down a jungle trail with his platoon when heavy enemy fire broke out to their front. He observed several enemy soldiers placing murderous fire upon the lead squad of his platoon from a well concealed tunnel complex. Specialist Yaklich, with complete disregard for his own safety, charged through the withering hail of enemy fire, delivering intense and effective fire from his weapon against the enemy and assaulted the enemy positions. Having silenced the position with his aggressive assault, he entered the tunnel complex and extracted one dead enemy soldier, ten prisoners and one captured enemy weapons. Specialist Yaklich’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 2268; 20 October 1967)

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09 July 1967 PFC Loyd D. Kindle (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force. Private Kindle distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. While on a search and destroy mission, Private Kindle' s platoon was moving along a river 'When they were suddenly taken under a heavy volume of enemy fire. The platoon leader immediately deployed his men and began to assault the enemy Positions. After having moved a short distance the platoon was again brought under heavy fire and pinned down. Private Kindle, realizing the precarious situation that was developing, immediately and with complete disregard for his own safety, moved through the vicious enemy fire and began to assault the enemy automatic weapons position. As he neared the enemy position he was struck by an enemy bullet and wounded. Disregarding his wound, Private Kindle charged the position and succeeded in overrunning the position, wounding several of the fleeing enemy soldiers. Private Kindle's devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1638; 12 August 1967)

09 July 1967 SP4 Gregory T. Knoles (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with Valor for heroism in connection

with military operations against a hostile force. Specialist Knoles distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. While on a search and destroy mission, Specialist Knoles' platoon was moving across an open area when they were suddenly brought under a heavy volume of enemy automatic weapons fire from an estimated enemy squad and pinned down. Specialist Knoles, serving as radio telephone operator, observed one of the machine gunners of his platoon who was moving forward in the assault fall to the ground wounded. Realizing how necessary the fire power of the machine gun was to the remainder of the platoon, Specialist Knoles, with complete disregard for his own safety, rushed through the withering enemy fire to the location of the wounded machine gunner. Specialist Knoles quickly administered the needed medical aid to the wounded man and then picked up the machine gun and assumed the position of machine gunner and began to place effective fire into the enemy positions. Specialist Knoles greatly aided his platoon in making the assault on the enemy positions. Specialist Knoles’ devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1677; 19 August 1967)

11 July 1967 SSG Kenneth Bowyer (HHC/2-502) was awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action against a hostile force on 11

July 1967 near Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours, the second section of the Reconnaissance platoon, while set up in a perimeter, was suddenly attacked by an estimated reinforced North Vietnamese company with automatic weapons, grenades, and mortars. Staff Sergeant Bowyer immediately began to direct the platoon’s fire as he moved through the heavy fire, giving his men encouragement and pointing out enemy positions. Shortly after the battle started, Sergeant Bowyer was struck in the head and face by grenade fragments and temporarily blinded. Disregarding his own wounds and safety, Sergeant Bowyer crawled through intense enemy fire until the area where his wounded had been placed. Still unable to see, Sergeant Bowyer valiantly crawled among his wounded comrades giving them encouragement. Sergeant Bowyer, realizing the great possibility of being overrun, began to organize the wounded men and prepare them for the defense of an all-out enemy assault. Approximately one hour after being wounded, Sergeant Bowyer’s vision returned and he began to move about the perimeter giving aid to the wounded and, on several occasions, crawled outside the perimeter in order to gather equipment and ammunition for his men. Staff Sergeant Bowyer’s outstanding display of gallantry in action, his devotion to duty and his men are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army. (HQ, AD; General Orders Number 1410; 27 November 1967)

11 July 1967 SP4 Walter Keyes (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action against a hostile force on 11

July 1967 near Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam. Prior to an all-out attack on his unit’s perimeter by a reinforced North Vietnamese Army Company, Specialist Keyes detected two enemy soldiers sneaking up on the defense; he immediately killed them with a grenade. As he did so the perimeter was taken under tremendous attack by grenade, mortar and automatic weapons fire. In the initial stages of the battle, the friendly element suffered heavy casualties; among them, the medic. Specialist Keyes, with no concern for his own safety, began crawling through the heavy fire giving medical aid to the wounded. Observing three wounded men lying in an area exposed to the enemy fire, he unhesitatingly crawled approximately ten meters out in front of the perimeter and pulled one of them to safety. As he returned for the second, an exploding grenade wounded him. Disregarding his wounds and displaying great personal bravery, he continued on and recovered the man. A third time Specialist Keyes crawled through the intense fire to retrieve the last wounded soldier but found him too serious to be moved. He quickly administered what medical aid he could and then placed rucksacks around the soldier to protect him from further injury. When his section Sergeant was wounded, specialist Keyes assumed his duties and distributed ammunition, gave encouragement, and directed fire into the enemy positions. Specialist Keyes was wounded a second time by grenade fragments as he tried to move to, and check on, his wounded comrade still lying outside the perimeter. Even though badly wounded, Specialist Keyes continued to move through the perimeter giving his men encouragement and assisting them whenever needed. The courage and determination displayed by Specialist Keyes resulted in the saving of numerous lives and inspired his men to such a degree that they successfully defended their positions against a numerically superior hostile force. Specialist Keyes never relented in his heroic, determined effort to resist the enemy and to give aid to his wounded comrades. The outstanding gallantry and personal valor demonstrated by Specialist Keyes has distinguished him and reflected the utmost credit upon himself, Task Force Oregon, and the United States Army. (HQ, TFO; General Orders Number 703; 18 September 1967)

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11 July 1967 1LT Clarence Long (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action against a hostile force on 11 July 1967 near Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Long distinguished himself by valorous action when his platoon was hit by a heavy barrage of grenade, mortar, and automatic weapons fire from an estimated enemy company who had succeeded in encircling his perimeter. During the initial stages of the battle the friendly element sustained numerous casualties. Lieutenant Long, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved through his defensive positions and reorganized his men and pulled the wounded to the center of the perimeter. Lieutenant Long continued to expose himself to the hostile fire as he pointed out enemy targets to his men and collected his wounded weapons and ammunition. When wounded by grenade fragments, he disregarded his wounds and crawled to a forward position to place heavy return fire into the enemy positions. Throughout the entire battle Lieutenant Long continually exposed himself to the vicious enemy fire while directing the fire of his platoon; as a result of his outstanding example and leadership, his platoon was able to defend their position from a determined enemy element. First Lieutenant Long’s gallant display of valor, his aggressiveness and determination against a numerically superior hostile force were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army. (HQ, AD; General Orders Number 1286; 18 November 1967)

11 July 1967 SGT Odell Ford (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with military

operations against a hostile force. Sergeant Ford distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours, a section of Recondo Platoon was attacked by an estimated reinforced enemy company. In the initial stages of battle, the enemy element concentrated a heavy volume of grenade, automatic weapons, and mortar fire on the friendly position and heavy casualties were inflicted. Sergeant Ford, serving as squad leader, realized the precarious situation that could develop and began to expose himself to the withering enemy fire while moving among his squad’s positions giving his men encouragement and directing their fire by pointing out enemy positions. While moving among the positions, he was struck in the head by shrapnel and temporarily blinded. Completely disregarding his painful wound, Sergeant Ford continued to give his men encouragement. His inspiration enabled his men to successfully defend and hold their positions against the numerically superior enemy element. Sergeant Ford’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Order Number 1733; 25 August 1967)

11 July 1967 PFC Ronald A. Gardner (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with

military operations against a hostile force. Private Gardner’s platoon was attacked by an estimated reinforced enemy company. In the initial burst of enemy automatic weapons fire, the medical aidman was killed and other casualties were inflicted. Private Gardner, even though wounded by grenade fragments, began to move through the battle area giving aid to the wounded. With complete disregard for his own safety, he exposed himself to the vicious enemy fire while moving his wounded comrades to a safe area to administer medical aid to them. On one occasion, he crawled out in front of his perimeter through a bullet swept area to within ten meters of an enemy position and pulled a wounded comrade to safety. For approximately two and a half hours, he treated the wounded an allowed his own wounds to be treated only after all his comrades had been given medical aid. Private Gardner’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Order Number 1737; 26 August 1967)

11 July 1967 PFC Chris S. Evans (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor (Posthumously) for heroism in

connection with military operations against a hostile force. Private Evans distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. Private Evans' section had set up a perimeter of defense for the night. During the early morning hours of darkness, the element was suddenly brought under heavy fire from a numerically superior enemy element. Private Evans observed that one of his comrades had been wounded and lay in an area exposed to the heavy enemy fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Private Evans moved through the bullet swept area and pulled his comrade to a safe area. As the enemy fire increased, more casualties were inflicted upon the friendly element and the possibility of being overrun became greater. Private Evans began to move through the battle area to insure all the wounded had been pulled to the rear. Private Evans located another wounded comrade and again rushed through the area and picked the wounded man up and began to carry him to a safe area. As he neared a safe position he was struck by enemy fire and mortally wounded. As a result of Private Evans' courageous actions the lives of two of his comrades were saved. Private Evans' devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest tradition of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1480; 18 July 1967)

11 July 1967 SP4 Geral D. Manzer (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with

military operations against a hostile force. Specialist Manzer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. While in a perimeter of defense, Specialist Manzer' s platoon was suddenly brought under a withering hail of enemy grenade, automatic weapons and mortar fire. In the initial stages of the battle, Specialist Manzer was struck by grenade fragments in both legs and seriously wounded, but disregarding the excruciating pain of his badly bleeding wound, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he refused medical aid in order to maintain his position. As the battle progressed in intensity, he realized the increasing possibility of being overran by the enemy. Though weak from loss of blood and unable to walk. Specialist Manzer crawled through the vicious enemy fire in order to better place effective fire into the enemy positions and give his comrades encouragement. Specialist Manzer's actions and courage, though bleeding profusely and in great pain, served as an inspiration for his comrades in the defense of their position. Specialist Manzer’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1815; 05 September 1967)

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11 July 1967 SSG Daniel E. Mills (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force. Sergeant Mills distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. During the early morning hours, Sergeant Mills’ platoon was viciously attacked by an estimated reinforced enemy company with a heavy barrage of grenades, mortar and automatic weapons fire, inflicting heavy casualties on the friendly element. Sergeant Mills, realizing the possibility of being overran, immediately rushed through the withering hail of enemy fire and began directing the fire of his men and giving them much encouragement. As the enemy element continued to pour a heavy volume of fire into the friendly positions, he was struck in the back by small arms fire and seriously wounded. Disregarding his own safety, Sergeant Mills, even though weak from loss of blood and in great pain, continued to crawl among his men’s' positions distributing ammunition to them and giving them added encouragement until he was wounded for the second time and put out of action. Sergeant Mills' devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1797; 03 September 1967)

11 July 1967 PFC James T. Likely (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with

military operations against a hostile force. Private Likely distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. While on a search and destroy mission, Private Likely’s platoon had just crossed a river and was moving across an open area when they were suddenly brought under a heavy volume of enemy fire. Private Likely, serving as platoon, medic, observed that one of his comrades was seriously wounded and lying in an area exposed to intense enemy fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he rushed through the withering hail of enemy fire to his wounded comrade, quickly administering emergency medical aid and then pulled the man to safety. Private Likely's devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1770; 01 September 1967)

11 July 1967 SP4 David H. Mitchell (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor (Posthumously) for heroism in

connection with military operations against a hostile force. Specialist Mitchell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. While on a search and destroy mission the Recondo platoon was suddenly brought under a heavy volume of enemy fire. In the initial stages of the battle numerous casualties were inflicted on the friendly element. Specialist Mitchell serving as a medic for the element unhesitatingly began to move through the battle area treating his wounded comrades. As the raging battle progressed, Specialist Mitchell, with complete disregard for his own safety remained exposed to the withering enemy fire while pulling wounded men to covered positions where he could treat them. On two occasions Specialist Mitchell crawled to within twenty meters of the enemy positions to pull wounded men to safety. Specialist Mitchell continued to move through the battel area treating the wounded until he was struck by enemy fire and mortally wounded. As a result of Specialist Mitchell’s courage numerous lives of his comrades were saved. Specialist Mitchell’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1497; 19 July 1967)

11 July 1967 SP4 Paul E. Potts (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with Valor for heroism in connection

with military operations against a hostile force. Specialist Potts distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. While in a perimeter of defense, Specialist Potts’ platoon was suddenly taken under a tremendous volume of enemy grenade, mortar, and automatic weapons fire. The friendly element received numerous casualties in the initial stages of the attack. Specialist Potts, with complete disregard for his own safety, began to move through the bullet swept area pulling wounded men to safety in the center of the perimeter, When the artillery forward observer and radio telephone operator were both wounded, he again moved through the vicious enemy fire and began to accurately adjust artillery fire against the enemy. Specialist Potts' devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 1768; 01 September 1967)

11 July 1967 SP4 Larry D. Woods (HHC/2-502 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in connection with

military operations against a hostile force. Specialist Woods distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 July 1967 in the Republic of Viet Nam. Specialist Woods” platoon became heavily engaged with an estimated reinforced enemy company, inflicting numerous friendly casualties and killing the platoon medic. With complete disregard for his own safety, Specialist Woods rushed through the vicious enemy fire and began pulling the wounded to a safe area. Throughout the battle, he repeatedly exposed himself to the devastating enemy fire to administer the needed medical aid to his wounded comrades. On one occasion, he detected two enemy soldiers attempting to get to a wounded man. Without hesitation, he jumped in front of his wounded comrade and began firing his weapon at the two enemy soldiers, forcing them to withdraw. Specialist Woods’ devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 1BDE, 101st ABN DIV; General Order Number 1739; 26 August 1967)

13 July 1967 SP4 Gary L. Ristine (A/2-502 IN) was awarded the Soldiers Medal for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed

enemy on 13 July 1967 near Due Pho, Republic of Vietnam. While on a search and destroy mission the lead element of Specialist Four Ristine’s platoon approached a river. The pointman quickly checked the depth of the river and determined it was shallow enough to cross but, very swift. The pointman proceeded across the river and after having moved approximately half-way across, he stepped off a drop-off. Specialist Ristine, upon hearing his comrade’s call for help, rushed to the river and quickly removed his equipment and plunged into the turbulent water. Reaching the spot where the man sank, Specialist Ristine began diving in search of his stricken comrade. On his third dive, Specialist Ristine located the man and immediately pulled him to the surface and swam to shore. Specialist Ristine then began to administer mouth to mouth resuscitation until the man revived. Specialist Four Ristine's outstanding display of heroism and unselfish concern for his fellow soldier are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army. (HQ, AD; General Orders Number 1414; 27 November 1967)

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

14 July 1970 CPL Keith E. Utter (D/2-501 IN) was awarded the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam, on 14 July 1970. Corporal Utter distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman in Company D, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 501st Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), during combat action near Hue, Republic of Vietnam. While in a night defensive position, Corporal Utter's unit came under an intense hostile attack, and he immediately maneuvered through the hostile fire to the section of the perimeter that was hardest hit. While directing effective fire on the enemy, Corporal Utter spotted a wounded comrade lying in an exposed position. When his attempt to reach the man was halted by the hostile fire, he noticed small arms fire being directed at the casualty. Corporal Utter immediately rushed to him, but was mortally wounded by hostile fire while attempting to move the man to a protected position. Corporal Utter's personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

14 July 1970 1LT Robert L. Worrall (B/2-501 IN) was awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam on

14 July 1970. Lieutenant Worrall distinguished himself while serving as a platoon leader in Company B, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 501st Infantry, during combat operations near Fire Support Base Ripcord, Republic of Vietnam. When his platoon’s defensive position came under an intense enemy attack, Lieutenant Worrall sustained several wounds. Despite his wounds, he repeatedly subjected himself to the hostile fire while positioning his men and directing their return fire. Refusing medical evacuation, he remained at his forward position, calling for and adjusting artillery fire. His actions were instrumental in silencing the enemy positions and successfully completing the evacuation of his wounded comrades to safety. Lieutenant Worrall’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Orders Number 12237; 02 October 1970)

14 July 1970 1LT Robert W. Layton (B/2-501 IN) was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism in ground combat against

a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 July 1970. Lieutenant Layton distinguished himself while serving as a platoon leader in Company B, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 501st Infantry, during combat operations in Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam. While on a reconnaissance mission, the lead element came under intense small arms, grenade, and machine gun fire. Observing that the lead element was pinned down and had suffered numerous casualties, Lieutenant Layton directed his men to reinforce the besieged element. Subjecting himself to the hostile fire, he maneuvered from position to position, directing the fire of his men and deploying them to gain fire superiority. Despite being wounded, he continued to lead his men and supervise the evacuation of the wounded. Lieutenant Layton’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (HQ, 101st ABN DIV; General Order Number 13072, 1 November 1970)

Prepared by: Ryan P. Niebuhr

ACRONYMS ACAV: Armored Cavalry AD: Americal Division AD: Airborne Division (Would be after numeric numbers) AO: Area of Operations ARA: Aerial Rocket Artillery ARCOM: Army Commendation Medal ARVN: Army of the Republic of Viet Nam (also known as the South Vietnamese Army (SVA)) BDE: Brigade BN: Battalion BSM: Bronze Star Medal BBT: Booby Traps CA: Combat Assault CANOPY: Heavily Wooded Terrain CO: Company CP: Command Post DSC: Distinguished Service Cross DZ: Drop Zone FSB: Fire Support Base HQ: Headquarters IED: Improvised Explosive Device IFFV: I Field Force Vietnam IN: Infantry KBA: Killed by Air or Artillery KHA: Killed by Hostile Action KIA: Killed in Action KNHA: Killed by Non-Hostile Action LZ: Helicopter Landing Zone MI: Military Intelligence MOH: Medal of Honor MP: Military Police NDP: Night Defensive Position NVA: North Vietnamese Army OBJ: Objective OP: Observation Post PAVN: People Army of Vietnam POW: Prisoner of War PF: Popular Forces PZ: Helicopter Pick-up Zone Recon Platoon: Reconnaissance Platoon RIF: Reconnaissance in Force RF: Regional Force ROK: Republic of Korea SA: Situational Awareness SIGINT: Signal Intelligence SSM: Silver Star Medal STRIKE Force: 2d Battalion, 502d Infantry SVA: South Vietnamese Army TF: Task Force TOC: Tactical Operations Center USARV: United States Army Vietnam USARPAC: United States Army Pacific WIA: Wounded in Action WHA: Wounded by Hostile Action WNHA: Wounded by Non-Hostile Action “V”: Valor VC: Viet Cong