Vietnam War Recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross

To All Who Shall See These Presents Greeting:

This is to Certify that
The President of the United States of America
Takes Pride in Presenting

THE
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS
to

HACKWORTH, DAVID HASKELL
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to David Haskell Hackworth (OF-103837), Major (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. On 7 February 1966, Major Hackworth's unit was assigned the mission of relieving elements of a friendly rifle company which had been pinned down for four hours. Upon arriving at the beleaguered unit s position, Major Hackworth moved forward, by himself, to conduct a reconnaissance of the area. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he moved across an open field through small arms fire, crossed a bridge which was raked by intense hostile machine gun fire, and ran across another open field through heavy fire to the embattled company s position. Major Hackworth then crawled to within twenty meters of the insurgent positions in the face of heavy machine gun fire. Upon completion of his reconnaissance mission, he returned to his command post and again, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, led the attacking force across the bullet swept fields to the insurgent positions. He then led a group through intense fire to a position only forty meters from the opposing force s battle positions. From this point, under fire for approximately six hours, Major Hackworth calmly and effectively maneuvered his units to close in on the entrenched and determined Viet Cong. Continuously, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he exposed himself to intense fire to personally inspire and direct the attack. As one of the attacking units began to falter, without hesitation, Major Hackworth left his position to rally the attackers and lead them into the Viet Cong positions. During the final phase of the attack, Major Hackworth again exposed himself to heavy fire in order to direct an air strike on the Viet Cong. Major Hackworth's extraordinary heroism and gallantry in action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 121 (1966)
Born: November 11, 1931 at Santa Monica, California
Home Town: Santa Monica, California
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (Vietnam), 10@ Silver Stars, 8@ Purple Hearts

HACKWORTH, DAVID HASKELL
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to David Haskell Hackworth (OF-103837), Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 39th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Hackworth distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during the period of 23 to 25 March 1969 as battalion commander while his unit was engaged with elements of two Viet Cong battalions. After one of his companies came under attack from a numerically superior hostile force, Colonel Hackworth landed his command and control helicopter amid heavy enemy fire to resupply the unit with ammunition and to evacuate casualties. Remaining with his forces on the ground, he led a patrol in pursuit of the withdrawing enemy and, after learning the enemy s withdrawal plan from a captured soldier, directed the insertion of other elements of his battalion into blocking positions. As the conflict developed into a large scale battle, he again took to the air and flew through intense antiaircraft fire to adjust artillery fire and direct the movement of his men. He repeatedly landed to coordinate with his ground commanders, lead assaults against hostile positions, and evacuate casualties. When a friendly scout element sustained several casualties and became pinned down near the communist emplacements, he disembarked from his helicopter to maneuver through the hostile fusillade and assist the wounded men to his aircraft. When he had insured that the injured were being evacuated, he adjusted supporting fire on the enemy fortifications until the enemy was soundly defeated and their weapons and supplied confiscated. Lieutenant Colonel Hackworth s extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2422 (1969)
Born: November 11, 1931 at Santa Monica, California
Home Town: Santa Monica, California
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (Vietnam), 10@ Silver Stars, 8@ Purple Hearts

HAIG, ALEXANDER M., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Alexander M. Haig, Jr. (0-50790), Lieutenant Colonel (Armor), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with while serving with Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Haig distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 31 March and 1 April 1967 while serving as battalion commander during an attack by a numerically superior Viet Cong force near Ap Gu. When two of his companies were engaged by a large hostile force, Colonel Haig landed amid a hail of fire, personally took charge of the units, called for artillery and air fire support, and succeeded in soundly defeating the insurgent force. Before dawn the nest day, when a single mortar round fell near the perimeter, Colonel Haig recognized it as the registering round prior to a massive attack and immediately alerted his entire unit. Within five minutes a barrage of 400 rounds was fired by the Viet Cong, but it was ineffective because of the warning and preparations by Colonel Haig. As the barrage subsided, a force three times larger than his began a series of human wave assaults on the camp. Heedless of the danger to himself, Colonel Haig repeatedly braved intense hostile fire to survey the battlefield. His personal courage and determination, and his skillful employment of every defense and support tactic possible, inspired his men to fight with previously unimagined power. Although his force was outnumbered three to one, Colonel Haig succeeded in inflicting 592 casualties on the Viet Cong. Lieutenant Colonel Haig's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2318 (May 22, 1967)

*HAINES, JOHN LODA
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John Loda Haines (US54959324), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry, 2d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Haines distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 March 1968 as medical aidman for an infantry platoon conducting a sweep and secure mission near Hoc Mon. As his unit moved into a dense wood line, it was subjected to intense small arms, automatic weapons, and anti-tank rocket fire from an enemy force of unknown size. Five members of his platoon were seriously wounded by the initial burst of savage hostile fire. Fearlessly exposing himself to the withering fusillade, Specialist Haines raced forward to assist his stricken comrades. With bullets striking all around him, he courageously moved from one casualty to another, administering first aid. Specialist Haines was hit while treating one of the soldiers, but disregarded his wound and continued his lifesaving mission. Observing his platoon sergeant severely wounded and lying in an open area raked by enemy machine gun fire, he rushed to the man and began attending him. Specialist Haines was instantly killed by the machine gun fire while applying the last bandage to his fallen comrade. His gallant and determined actions in close combat saved the lives of several fellow soldiers. Specialist Four Haines' extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1839 (May 22, 1967)
Home Town: Vandalia, Michigan

HALE, RICHARD M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Richard M. Hale (RA19825582), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion (Mechanized), 5th Infantry, 2d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Sergeant Hale distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 November 1966 while serving as a squad leader with the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry during a search and destroy operation near Tay Ninh. As the battalion maneuvered into position, it suddenly received intense automatic weapons and mortar fire from an entrenched Viet Cong force. Sergeant Hale immediately ordered his armored personnel carrier into the center of the action. Once fire superiority had been gained, he dismounted his squad and aggressively led them in an assault on the hostile positions. When one of his men was hit by grenade fragments, just short of the Viet Cong lines, Sergeant Hale directed his squad to evacuate the wounded man. With complete disregard for his safety, while armed with only a bowie knife and a pistol, he charged the hostile emplacement alone. Dauntlessly running 30 meters through intense hostile fire, he leaped into the bunker and engaged two insurgents in fierce hand-to-hand combat. After killing both Viet Cong, Sergeant hale reorganized his squad and continued to search the area until he was shot in the chest by a sniper. Although painfully wounded and weak from loss of blood, he gallantly crawled to the hostile position and killed two more insurgents with his pistol. His unimpeachable valor and profound concern for his comrades inspired all those around him and helped to defeat a determined hostile force. Sergeant Hale's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 181 (January 13, 1967)

HALES, JAMES P., III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James P. Hales, III (0-5312419), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Captain Hales distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 28 April 1968 as an infantry company commander during a reconnaissance-in-force mission near Xom Bao Long. His unit suddenly came under a barrage of rocket propelled grenade, small arms and automatic weapons fire from well-fortified North Vietnamese positions. Captain hales immediately maneuvered his armored carrier toward the aggressors and sprayed them with machine gun fire, enabling his men to withdraw with the wounded to a more strategic location. Two enemy emplacements began sending a heavy volume of machine gun and rocket propelled grenade fire at his vehicle. A grenade round penetrated the side of the carrier, immobilizing it and temporarily deafening him. Finding his machine gun inoperative, Captain Hales picked up five grenades and crawled under the devastating fire to one of the bunkers holding a four-man rocket team. Pitching two grenades into the enemy position he killed all four occupants. Crawling another ten meters toward the second emplacement, he threw his remaining three grenades which silenced the machine gun and killed two more communist soldiers. After destroying the two positions, he directed artillery and air strikes and succeeded in routing the enemy. Captain Hales' extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 5691 (December 10, 1968)
Home Town: Fayetteville, North Carolina

*HALEY, PATRICK LAWRENCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Patrick Lawrence Haley (0-5531115), Captain (Armor), [then First Lieutenant], U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division. Captain Haley distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 2 October 1966 while serving as pilot of an armed command helicopter during an aerial attack on Viet Cong forces escaping the Ngot Bay area. Completely disregarding intense hostile fire, Captain Haley flew for one hour at very low altitudes in an attempt to locate and fix hostile targets. He dauntlessly remained at the most critical points of combat, never permitting the enemy to pin down friendly ground elements. When a friendly squad received intense Viet Cong fire and refused to retreat because of a casualty lying in an exposed position, Captain Hale unhesitatingly flew between the opposing forces to divert the hostile barrage. Although his ammunition was expended, he persuaded the friendly element to withdraw, then landed and picked up the wounded man. His helicopter was severely damaged by enemy fire while on the ground, but he was able to fly the casualty 150 meters to a safe zone. His heroic actions were highly instrumental in killing 320 Viet Cong and the saving of many American lives. Captain Haley's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2282 (May 21, 1967)
Home Town: La Salle, Illinois

*HALL, BILLIE ALLEN (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Billie Allen Hall (RA18621886), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Detachment A-102, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. On 9 March 1966, Special Forces Detachment A-102 at Camp Ashau was subjected to a mortar barrage and small arms fire. After a day of continuous enemy bombardment, Camp A Shau was attacked by two North Vietnamese Regiments. With the advantage of surprise, superior firepower and bad weather the enemy hurled wave after wave of troops at the weakening defenses on Camp A Shau. The vicious battle forced the evacuation of the camp, and resulted in heavy casualties on both sides. Sergeant Hall, a medic, had accompanied a company of one hundred and forty-three men to reinforce Camp A Shau. When the attack started, Sergeant Hall grabbed his weapon and aid kit and ran from his quarters. Seeing many wounded in the center of the camp he ran through the enemy fire to assist in dragging the wounded to safety and treating them. Throughout the bombardment, he ran from position to position treating the wounded. Seeing two wounded Americans lying on a road in the center of the camp in the midst of numerous mortar explosions, Sergeant Hall ran to their aid. With enemy mortar rounds bursting all around him, he reached the two men and dragged them into a ditch and gave them medical aid. A direct hit on this trench killed one of the wounded Americans, an interpreter and wounded two other Americans nearby. Although Sergeant Hall had both his legs blown off when this round exploded, he refused medical attention. Being the only qualified medic at that location, he realized his responsibility to the wounded. Only after these men were treated and moved did he allow himself to be carried to the dispensary. On reaching the dispensary, though in extreme pain and weak from great loss of blood, Sergeant Hall permitted only slight treatment of his severe wounds to stem the flow of blood so he might live longer to direct operations at the aid station. Through an interpreter, he directed indigenous medics in caring for the wounded. He continued this gallant task until his body could withstand no more the demands being placed upon it, and he lapsed into a coma and died. Sergeant Hall's conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the cost of his own life, was a continuous inspiration to the entire garrison of Camp A Shau. His sacrifice was the spark needed to ignite the flame of desire in each man to repulse the relentless enemy as long as means were available. Sergeant Hall's unimpeachable valor in close combat was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 18 (April 18, 1967)
Home Town: Sand Springs, Oklahoma

HALL, SEQUOYAH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sequoyah Hall, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 2d Battalion, 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division. Sergeant Hall distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 April 1970 while serving as squad leader during an operation in Phuoc Long Province. As Sergeant Hall's squad moved through the dense jungle, they came under a heavy barrage of rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire from an undetermined sized enemy force. Although seriously wounded by the initial burst of fire, Sergeant hall began adjusting artillery fire upon the well-concealed foe and directed his men into defensive positions. As the hostile force attempted to assault the friendly elements locations, the sergeant met the brunt of the attack and repelled the assailants with devastating volleys of automatic weapon fire. After his ammunition was expended, Sergeant Hall painfully crawled forward and tossed fragmentation grenades at the enemy which blocked their avenue of assault and forced them to withdraw. Sergeant Hall's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 5395 (December 28, 1970)

HAMILTON, GEORGE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to George E. Hamilton (RA19842746), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Private First Class Hamilton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 8 August 1966 while serving as a machine gunner on a search and destroy mission near Plei Me. When the lead element suddenly made contact with a large Viet Cong force, Private Hamilton's platoon quickly advanced to provide support. With complete disregard for his safety while receiving sniper fire, he deliberately exposed himself to the hostile fire and killed a sniper in a nearby tree. When the two platoons withdrew and set up a defensive perimeter, Private Hamilton voluntarily remained behind to provide covering fire. Later, when the insurgents attempted to overrun the small American force, he set up his machine gun in an exposed position to provide the most effective fire. His suppressive fire was primarily responsible for the defeat of three human wave assaults, the destruction of one Viet Cong machine gun, and two automatic weapon emplacements. Although wounded in the shoulder during these fierce attacks, Private Hamilton dauntlessly tossed hand grenades into the charging insurgents. He again exposed himself to the intense fire as he moved about the area throwing hostile grenades back on the Viet Cong positions. His exceptional gallantry ended only when an exploding grenade knocked him unconscious. Private First Class Hamilton's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 6939 (December 19, 1966)

*HAMILTON, GILBERT LEE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Gilbert Lee Hamilton (RA26244416), Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Command and Control Detachment (North), FOB 1 (Phu Bai), 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Sergeant First Class Hamilton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 17 January 1968 as Special Forces advisor to a Vietnamese unit conducting a reconnaissance mission in enemy territory. The patrol had taken a defensive position on high ground while waiting for helicopter extraction from the area of operations. Sergeant Hamilton volunteered to lead a seven-man security team outside the unit's perimeter to search for signs of possible enemy activity around its position. While moving through heavy elephant grass, the patrol was savagely ambushed at close range by insurgents firing automatic weapons. Sergeant Hamilton was severely wounded by a burst of enemy bullets, but returned fierce fire killing at least one enemy soldier. He then quickly organized his trapped troops into a tight perimeter and directed their counterfire against the surrounding hostile elements. Although he was struck three more times by enemy bullets, he continued to direct the defense of his men. He made radio contact with helicopter gunships in the area and skillfully adjusted their supporting fires on the enemy positions to prevent the attackers from overrunning the small team. His gallant and determined actions in the heat of battle were responsible for saving his comrades from annihilation. Sergeant First Class Hamilton's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1468 (April 1, 1968)
Home Town: Denver, Colorado

HAMMER, MARTIN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Martin J. Hammer (OF-101931), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. On 6 May 1966, First Lieutenant Hammer was serving as 2d Platoon Leader, Company A, 2d Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), near the insurgent-held village of Than Binh when they became engaged with a force of North Vietnamese estimated to be of battalion size. As the company moved in on the insurgents, the 2d Platoon moved from its reserve position to block an avenue of escape around the company's right flank. Despite the increased volume of insurgent fire, Lieutenant Hammer led his platoon across more than 15o meters of sniper infested area to an effective blocking position against the insurgent's withdrawal. While moving from squad to squad, he was wounded in the wrist. Requiring help, Lieutenant Hammer braved the fire to direct a unit that had been sent up to help his beleaguered platoon and was wounded a second time. Later the insurgents launched a suicidal grenade attack on the 2d Platoon's left flank and Lieutenant Hammer single-handedly repelled the attack. Discovering that one of his men had been wounded, he again braved the insurgent's fire and dragged him to safety. While directing the 1st Platoon that was sent up to reinforce his line, he received a serious shrapnel wound in the chest but still refused evacuation in order to remain and direct his men during the remainder of the fight. Only after his platoon was in its new position and the wounded taken care of did he allow himself to be evacuated. First Lieutenant Hammer's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Pacific, General Orders No. 216 (September 8, 1966)

*HAMMERSLA, JAMES RUSSELL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to James Russell Hammersla (0-525509), First Lieutenant (Transportation Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with 379th Transportation Company (Reefer), 7th Transportation Battalion (Truck), 48th Transportation Group (Motor Transport), United States Army Support Command. First Lieutenant Hammersla distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 17 December 1968 as commander of a convoy carrying supplies from Long Binh to Dau Tieng. The convoy was ambushed by an estimated battalion-sized force of North Vietnamese Army troops occupying positions from fifteen to a hundred and fifty meters from the road and covering a twelve hundred meter killing zone. As the trucks ahead began receiving fire, Lieutenant Hammersla's jeep was struck by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade. One of the trucks in front of him was then hit in the engine compartment disabling it in the middle of the road. Lieutenant Hammersla and the other occupants quickly dismounted from their crippled vehicle and began returning fire on the North Vietnamese. Realizing that other sections of the convoy would soon drive into the ambush, he courageously returned to his jeep through the intense hostile fire and radioed a warning. He was wounded by the communists' barrage, but managed to return to his defensive position where he continued to encourage his men and direct their fire until he was mortally wounded by the enemy fusillade. His radio message prevented other convoy vehicles from being ambushed and caused reinforcements to be immediately dispatched to the battle site. First Lieutenant Hammersla's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1423 (April 23, 1969)
Home Town: Reisterstown, Maryland

HAND, MICHAEL JOHN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Michael John Hand, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Private First Class Hand distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 and 10 June 1965. His extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Pacific, General Orders No. 23 (1966)
Born: December 8, 1941 at Bronx, New York
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*HARDISON, ROBERT SMITH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Smith Hardison (RA12968434), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 12th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. Private First Class Hardison distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 27 March 1969 as a platoon medic during a reconnaissance-in-force mission near Landing Zone Cider in Kontum Province. The men in the point element engaged several North Vietnamese Army soldiers. As the remainder of the platoon moved forward to assist them, ferocious B-40 rocket, mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire erupted from three sides. Seeing numerous casualties in the enemy killing zone, Private Hardison repeatedly braved the devastating fire to administer medical treatment and instruct others in caring for the injured. Rescuing the wounded from under the communist' fusillade, he brought them to his unit's hastily formed defensive perimeter. As the platoon was about to withdraw, he made a final check of the area where the point element had first made contact and spotted a wounded soldier lying exposed to fierce enemy fire. Racing to the casualty, he shielded the man with his own body and was administering lifesaving first aid when he was mortally wounded by the enemy fire. Private First Class Hardison's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2199 (June 23, 1969)
Home Town: Nashville, Tennessee

*HARDY, HERBERT FRANCIS, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Herbert Francis Hardy, Jr. (0-71092), Captain (Artillery), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Detachment A-334, 5th Special Forces (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Captain Hardy distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 February 1964. As Commander of Special Forces Detachment A-334, Captain Hardy was directing the operations of a Vietnamese strike force platoon when the friendly unit became engaged in violent combat with Viet Cong forces. During the ensuing battle, in which the strike force personnel withdrew, Captain Hardy exposed himself to the rounds of mortar fire in an attempt to rally the platoon and organize a counter-attack. When this effort was unsuccessful, he then bravely led a remaining American advisor and a Vietnamese sergeant down a slope and launched a direct attack on the enemy. Despite the heavy volume of automatic and small arms fire directed at the small force, the swiftness of their actions dislodged the enemy from their well-entrenched positions and caused them to flee toward their mortar positions. Then, when the American advisor sustained a severe leg injury, Captain Hardy quickly provided covering fire, rushed to his aid, and succeeded in pulling him to a safe position. After administering first aid to his fellow soldier, he initiated the withdrawal of the small party toward their base camp. Throughout this extremely dangerous operation which required their going through Viet Cong infested territory and exposure to traps and ambushes, he periodically reconnoitered the route ahead of the party and, after a grueling ordeal lasting four and one-half hours, succeeded in bringing his small force to the safety of the patrol base. His dynamic leadership, coolness under fire, and deep concern for the safety of his men averted further casualties and served as an inspiration to all who served with him during this hazardous operation. Captain Hardy's valiant efforts and extraordinary heroic actions are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect the utmost credit upon himself and the military service.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 8 (March 9, 1965)
Home Town: Great Pond, Maine

*HARPER, TONY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Tony Harper (263-74-6075), Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 12th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Second Lieutenant Harper distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 28 July 1969 while serving as a platoon leader during a reconnaissance mission near Trang Bang. His platoon suddenly came under heavy fire from a concealed enemy bunker. A firefight followed during which a machine gunner was seriously wounded in close proximity to the hostile fortification. Lieutenant Harper attempted to retrieve the wounded man, but was driven back by intense fire. He then organized a squad of volunteers to overtake the enemy position and rescue their comrade. After crawling several hundred meters, the squad launched an assault on the enemy's flanks. While the other squad members provided cover fire, Lieutenant Harper rushed the bunker, hurling grenades and firing his weapon on the run. Through his aggressive leadership and actions, the hostile emplacement and its occupants were eliminated and the body of the American soldier was recovered. Second Lieutenant Harper's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 3873 (October 14, 1969)
Home Town: Jacksonville, Florida

*HARR, GERRY A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Gerry A. Harr (OF-108634), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry, 3d Brigade, 1st Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Harr distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 7 April 1968 as a platoon leader during a reconnaissance-in-force operation near the Song Be River in Chon Thon Province. Upon entering a hostile base camp, his battalion came in contact with a large enemy force concealed in well fortified positions. Lieutenant Harr's platoon was part of the lead element and came under heavy automatic weapons and small arms fire. As assault was made on the Viet Cong, but it was halted by an intense enemy barrage. Moving far forward, Lieutenant Harr boldly exposed himself to a hail of bullets to fire an antitank weapon at a key bunker. Unable to destroy the strongly built fortification, he charged through a hail of fire and hurled a hand grenade into the bunker, and then crawled inside to insure its occupants were dead. Receiving fire from a previously undetected position, he assaulted it also, slaying one Viet Cong with rifle fire and one with a grenade. He then entered the emplacement, again making certain no resistance remained. His example inspired the men of his unit to unleash an assault which overran the enemy base camp. First Lieutenant Harr's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4276 (September 10, 1968)
Home Town: Corvallis, Oregon

HARRELL, ROHNIE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Rohnie Harrell (RA18744007), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 505th Infantry, 3d Brigade, 82d Airborne Division. Sergeant Harrell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 April 1968 as a squad leader during a company sweep northwest of Hue. His squad, point element for his platoon, maneuvered against well-fortified enemy positions which had pinned down the rest of the company. Sergeant Harrell advanced through a hail of fire, entered the enemy trench system, and killed two North Vietnamese soldiers. Hurling grenades, he continued to expose himself to enemy fire as he moved down the trench to eliminate a North Vietnamese Army position inside a nearby house. He destroyed the emplacement and began to return to his platoon's position. As he did so he found four wounded comrades in the trench. He deployed three of them into a hasty defensive position and dragged the severely wounded fourth man to cover. He then returned to the other wounded, led them to a protected friendly position, and integrated them into the company's defenses. Upon returning to his platoon, Sergeant Harrell relayed timely information concerning the location of enemy positions to his officers, allowing them to better deploy their troops against the insurgents. Sergeant Harrell's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 3823 (August 7, 1968)

HARRIS, JAMES A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James A. Harris (RA55700036), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 12th Infantry, 3d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Staff Sergeant Harris distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 14 February 1968 as platoon sergeant of an infantry unit during its assault on an enemy infested village. As the lead platoon, led by Sergeant Harris, entered the village, its advance was halted by intense enemy fire from a well-fortified trench and bunker system. Undaunted by the murderous fire, Sergeant Harris led a small patrol in an attempt to flank and destroy the enemy positions. As he advanced to within ten meters of an enemy machine gun position, he was detected and the enemy began placing heavy machine gun fire on his position, painfully wounding him. Sergeant Harris was forced to withdraw. He quickly reorganized his troops and led another assault on the enemy machine gun position. The withering enemy fire again halted the advance. Sergeant Harris was wounded a second time but refused to be evacuated. Disregarding the pain and loss of blood from his wounds, he obtained two hand grenades and crawled towards the enemy positions alone, leaving his men behind to provide covering fire. As he stood up and threw the grenades, he was wounded a third time. His accurate throw destroyed the enemy position and allowed his platoon to advance. Still refusing medical evacuation, Sergeant Harris continued the mission until it was completed. Staff Sergeant Harris' extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 3882 (August 9, 1968)

*HARRIS, ROY GREEN, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Roy Green Harris, Jr. (RA14352191), Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Second Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 3d Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Platoon Sergeant Harris distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 September 1967 while serving as a platoon sergeant of an infantry platoon on a search and destroy mission near Phan Thiet. As his men left the helicopters upon infiltration, they were savagely attacked by a large Viet Cong force firing automatic weapons from well fortified positions around the landing zone. The intensity of the enemy barrage prevented his men from deploying in defensive positions quickly, but Sergeant Harris stood up in the hail of bullets and moved among his men directing their fire on the hostile positions. After gaining fire superiority, he moved to the front of his men and led the platoon in a fierce charge on the enemy fortifications, personally capturing one prisoner. Several hostile soldiers surprised him as he moved the prisoner toward his platoon leader, and he was wounded by the savage fire. He remained calm in the face of the attack and killed one to the insurgents while routing the rest with deadly fire. As he moved along a stream with the prisoner, he was seriously wounded by a Viet Cong sniper. Ignoring his own safety, he continued to direct the assault on the enemy and inspired his men to defeat the determined Viet Cong. He was mortally wounded while fearlessly leading his men in the face of overwhelming odds. Platoon Sergeant Harris' extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 5670 (November 4, 1967)
Home Town: New York, New York

*HARRISON, PAUL JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Paul James Harrison (RA19766351), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Specialist Four Harrison distinguished himself on 21 May 1966 while serving as a rifleman during a combat mission. On this date, the mortar platoon of Specialist Four Harrison's company was scheduled to be the last element to be extracted from the operational area. As the last rifle platoon was extracted, the mortar platoon suddenly received intense hostile fire from an estimated Viet Cong company which began attacking in full force. Observing that the platoon's single mortar weapon was destroyed during the initial attack, Specialist Four Harrison immediately rushed through the intense hostile fire and began delivering suppressive fire onto the advancing Viet Cong. Inspired by his aggressiveness, Specialist Four Harrison's comrades held their ground as long as possible. When the ammunition supply became critically low and position after position succumbed to the overwhelming insurgent force, the remaining members of the mortar platoon were forced to withdraw. Recognizing that many of the withdrawing troops were hit by Viet Cong fire, Specialist Four Harrison decided to hold his ground alone and provided as much fire cover as possible for his comrades. With complete disregard his safety, Specialist Four Harrison advanced forward to a vantage point to draw the hostile fire away from his comrades and to more efficiently provide fire cover for the withdrawing survivors. When his ammunition was expended and the insurgent force was advancing toward his position, Specialist Four Harrison fearlessly jumped from his foxhole, charged the Viet Cong and engaged them in hand to hand combat. He continued to inflict casualties until he was finally overcome by the surmountable odds. Through his courage, he undoubtedly saved the remainder of his unit. Specialist Four Harrison's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 6409 (November 18, 1966)
Home Town: Lakewood, California

HARVEY, THOMAS H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas H. Harvey (0-83266), Major (Artillery), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop B, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Major Harvey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 16 April 1967 while serving as platoon leader of a helicopter team flying a reconnaissance and support mission for ground operations near Duc Pho. Catching a North Vietnamese unit in the open, Major Harvey made a series of low-level passes firing his rockets and machine guns. Expending his rockets, he then hovered directly over the insurgents so his gunners could direct deadly fire upon them. His helicopter received heavy damage from ground fire, but he continued the attack until his aircraft ran low of fuel. After returning to his base to change aircraft Major Harvey flew back to the battle area. Again locating Viet Cong in the open, he made a treetop-level rocket pass into the face of withering fire. His rockets failed to fire so he again hovered over the hostile forces while his door gunners inflicted heavy casualties. Once more returning to base after his helicopter was damaged and a crewmember wounded, he again changed aircraft and flew back to support the infantrymen. His courageous actions were instrumental in bringing heavy casualties on the enemy and successfully completing the mission. Major Harvey's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4487 (September 2, 1967)

HASZARD, SIDNEY S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sidney S. Haszard (0-60457), Lieutenant Colonel (Armor), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters, 3d Squadron, 5th Cavalry, 9th Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Haszard distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 and 20 March 1967 while serving as commanding officer of an Armored Cavalry unit during a massive Viet Cong attack on a fire support base six kilometers from the base camp at Ap Bau Bang. When he learned of the hostile attack, Colonel Haszard decided that he could best supervise defensive actions from the battlefield itself and started toward the conflict with medics in two armored cavalry assault vehicles. The vehicles were ambushed on the highway soon after they left their base camp. Colonel Haszard immediately manned a machine gun on his vehicle and ordered his driver to proceed as fast as possible. His effective return fire prevented the insurgents from doing any damage to the vehicles and enabled the small command force to continue toward the battle at high speed. As he entered the perimeter of the friendly force, he found the area infested with Viet Cong who were assaulting the unit. Again manning a machine gun, Colonel Haszard directed the two vehicles into the midst of the battle. Two antitank rounds hit his vehicle, and wounded him. He remained undaunted, steadily firing his machine gun while the other vehicle hooked up tow cables and pulled the disabled carrier into the perimeter. He then went from one armored vehicle to another through the storm of hostile fire ravaging the area to encourage his outnumbered troops and to direct their fire at the enemy. His fearlessness and unshakable calm were a source of inspiration for his men as they seized control and repulsed the Viet Cong after six hours of battle. Lieutenant Colonel Haszard's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4324 (August 25, 1967)

HATTERSLEY, ROGER K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Roger K. Hattersley (RA16837989), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division. Private First Class Hattersley distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 17 December 1966 while serving as machine gunner during a search and destroy mission near Bong Son. While advancing, Private Hattersley's platoon received intense fire from hostile camouflaged positions 40 meters to its front. He immediately dropped to the ground and poured a high rate of fire into the Viet Cong emplacements to protect his wounded comrades who were struggling to reach cover. Although enemy fire constantly raked the ground around him, he held his position until ordered back by his commander. When his ammunition ran out, he raced to the side of a casualty lying in the open, seized his weapon, and provided his own covering fire while helping the man to withdraw. With replenished ammunition, he resumed his devastating attack on the insurgents. Realizing that his trapped unit would continue to suffer severe casualties unless something was done, Private Hattersley, of his own accord, jumped to his feet firing his weapon from the hip, and fearlessly charged the Viet Cong emplacement. He was wounded halfway to the bunker, but indomitably continued his assault on the hostile stronghold and disappeared into a hedgerow. His attack silenced the main enemy firing position and enabled his unit to overcome the insurgents. Private Hattersley was found wounded a second time and lying unconscious next to a Viet Cong bunker where a dead insurgent was inside. Private First Class Hattersley's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2319 (May 22, 1967)

HAUPT, EARL C., III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Earl C. Haupt, III (US52653967), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Battery B, 2d Battalion, 77th Artillery, 3d Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. Private First Class Haupt distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 March 1967 while serving as a member of an artillery battery during a massive Viet Cong attack near Suoi Tre. The insurgents had quickly overrun the camp's security perimeter, and the open ground around the battery was being swept by intense automatic weapons and small arms fire. Private Haupt was wounded in the neck and left eye early in the attack, but tied a handkerchief over the eye and continued to assist in firing the howitzer. When a nearby howitzer was in danger of being overrun and was losing gunners because of wounds, he moved to the position until crews could be reorganized. He spotted an enemy recoilless rifle that was inflicting damage on the camp, grabbing a grenade launcher, he advanced and destroyed the hostile crew. Private Haupt then returned to the howitzer until a direct hit disabled the weapon. Hearing cries for ammunition from men who were protecting the artillery, he made repeated trips to the ammunition storage area. He was hit in the thigh while returning to the perimeter for the fourth time. He stopped only long enough to have a pressure bandage applied and continued to lend assistance where crews were shorthanded. Only after he was sure that the Viet Cong had been routed and that the battery was secure did he allow himself to be evacuated for medical treatment. Private First Class Haupt's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4154 (August 15, 1967)
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio

HAY, JOHN H., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John H. Hay, Jr. (0-25290), Major General, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Infantry Division. Major General Hay distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 April 1967 while repulsing a heavy enemy assault on units of his command. An estimated reinforced regiment of Viet Cong launched an intensive mortar attack on the night defensive position of elements of two battalions at Landing Zone George. Several hundred mortar rounds savagely pounded the friendly position. Upon receiving word of the action, General Hay alerted his helicopter crew, briefed them, and flew to the scene. As he arrived, the Viet Cong were pressing a fierce ground attack. He immediately called for the support of additional flareships, forward air controllers, and light fire teams. Ignoring intensive automatic weapons and machine gun fire directed at his aircraft, General Hay instructed his pilot to make extremely low passes while he marked insurgent weapons positions and troop concentrations with smoke. Incoming artillery rounds, explosions on the ground, and relentless hostile fire made low passes over the battle site extremely hazardous. With complete disregard for his safety, General Hay continued his flights over the area to observe all movements of the hostile force and adjust friendly fires accordingly. As a result of his daring actions, the Viet Cong advance was halted and the friendly forces were able to counterattack and reestablish their perimeter. The insurgents attempted two more assaults on the perimeter, and again General Hay directed all friendly fires from the air. As ground fog cleared, he called in tactical air strikes which inflicted severe casualties on the Viet Cong force and caused the insurgents to break contact and flee into the jungle. General Hay then ordered his pilot to fly low over the retreating hostile force, and he directed the interdiction of the Viet Cong escape routes. His aggressive pursuit of the enemy, while continually subjected to concentrated machine gun and small arms fire, was responsible for causing further heavy casualties to the Viet Cong. His inspiring leadership was a deciding factor in the overwhelming rout of a main force Viet Cong regiment, and the enemy unit was rendered ineffective for other aggression. Major General Hay's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 996 (March 5, 1968)

HAYDEN, PHILIP P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Philip P. Hayden (0-5327067), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company C, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade. First Lieutenant Hayden distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 February 1967 while serving as rifle platoon leader during a surprise attack by a Viet Cong force near Phuoc Vinh. The insurgents opened fire with machine guns, rifles and grenades. The hostile attack was so sudden that four men were wounded forty meters forward of the friendly perimeter. Lieutenant Hayden unflinchingly ran through the hostile barrage to his left flank machine gun position which was receiving the heaviest attack. He immediately reinforced the position with his own fire and directed his gunners' fire, enabling two of the men outside the perimeter to crawl into the camp. Completely disregarding his own safety, Lieutenant Hayden ordered his men to maintain maximum fire and crawled out to the wounded men. Despite the hail of fire flying over him from two direction, he managed to et one man back to the safety of the camp. When he returned for the second man, however, a group of insurgents focused their fire on him and seriously wounded him. Assuming that they had killed him, five insurgents were moving closer to the friendly fore when Lieutenant Hayden wounded or killed all of them. Two of his men then crawled from the perimeter to help him. He told them to help the other casualty back toward their perimeter, covered their withdrawal with intense fire, then returned to safety himself. First Lieutenant Hayden's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2388 (May 25, 1967)

*HAYNES, FREDDIE NEIL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Freddie Neil Haynes (428-98-8920), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with 57th Aviation Company, 52d Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. Specialist Fourth Class Haynes distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 November 1969 while serving as doorgunner on a transport helicopter supporting the 5th Special Forces. While at the encampment at Dak Pek, the crews of four helicopters came under intense enemy mortar attack. When the initial incoming round wounded four pilots, Specialist Haynes immediately went to their assistance and helped them to seek shelter in a slight depression in the ground. As the shells continued to pound the area, Specialist Haynes ran into the open to prepare two aircraft for take-off. One of the helicopters received a direct mortar hit, and although wounded by shrapnel, Specialist Haynes approached the burning ship and extracted the injured pilot. Minutes later as he was helping the wounded pilot aboard a second craft, Specialist Haynes was fatally wounded. Specialist Fourth Class Haynes extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 381 (February 11, 1970)
Home Town: Vicksburg, Mississippi

HAYNIE, HARRIS R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Harris R. Haynie (US54375159), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop B, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Specialist Four Haynie distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 27 May 1967 while serving as a combat medic of an infantry platoon on a reconnaissance mission near Duc Pho. While moving through thick jungle toward Viet Cong positions spotted earlier from the air, the lead elements of his platoon were pinned down by heavy automatic weapons, mortar and machine gun fire from a numerically superior hostile force. Seeing two of the point men wounded, Specialist Haynie ran through withering fire from his position at the rear of the column to treat them. Seriously wounded by grenade fragments, he refused medical treatment and carried the casualties to safety. Two squads of reinforcements managed to land inside the perimeter, but one man was hit and fell into the open landing zone. Disregarding his own safety, Specialist Haynie dashed across the bullet-swept clearing and pulled the man to safety. A short time later an ammunition re-supply helicopter was shot down in flames outside the perimeter, trapping the crew inside. Once again he braved withering fire and a possible explosion to run to the craft and pull the men from the wreckage. Throughout the three-hour battle, he exposed himself continually to hostile fire, treating the wounded and boosting the morale of his comrades. Specialist Four Haynie's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 5070 (October 4, 1967)

*HAYS, JOHN HULSEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John Hulsey Hays (OF-104780), Captain (Armor), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop B, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Captain Hays distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 8 November 1968 while serving as the commander of an armored cavalry troop near An Loc. As Captain Hays was leading two platoons of his unit and a light tank section on a sweep through an area of dense rubber trees, a North Vietnamese Army force unleashed an intense barrage of small arms, automatic weapons and antitank rocket fire. He immediately led a charge toward the attackers, pushing them into another section of the rubber trees. The remaining enemy then joined with a still larger North Vietnamese Army element and began a determined defense. During the course of the fierce engagement, Captain Hays manned a machine gun and directed a tremendous volume of suppressive fire, while also coordinating his force through the use of hand and arm signals which left him dangerously exposed. Suddenly his vehicle received a direct hit from an antitank rocket, knocking him to the ground. Although dazed, he ignored his injuries and, remounting the track, continued to fire the machine gun. When a group of North Vietnamese soldiers made a direct assault on his position, he killed two of them and scattered the rest. A few moments later his vehicle received another direct hit from an antitank rocket mortally wounding him. Captain Hays' extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 5896 (December 30, 1968)
Home Town: Winter Haven, Florida

HAZEL, RICHARD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Richard L. Hazel (US55866158), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 3d Battalion, 22d Infantry, 3d Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Hazel distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 March 1967 while serving as a fire direction computer during an assault by a Viet Cong regiment in Tay Ninh Province. During the early morning hours, the hostile regiment launched a massive infantry, mortar, and rocket assault on the entire friendly defense perimeter. The spearhead of the assault was directed at the infantry positions in front of the bunker occupied by Specialist Hazel. When he saw that friendly mortar emplacements had been destroyed and defensive positions in his sector were being overrun, he left the security of his bunker while receiving intense enemy fire to place grenade fire on the assaulting waves of insurgents. At one point he silenced an enemy recoilless rifle position that had destroyed numerous bunkers and was hitting at large areas inside his unit's perimeter. With complete disregard for his own safety, he moved throughout the area of enemy penetration while aiding the wounded and moving them for treatment and evacuation. When other sectors were overrun by repeated Viet Cong assaults, Specialist Hazel, already exhausted from two hours of heated battle, led an assault with men from assorted units in a vicious fight to reclaim the overrun positions. Specialist Hazel and the others managed to hold the reclaimed areas, until reinforcements arrived four hours later, by fighting insurgents outside and inside the perimeter. Specialist Four Hazel's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 3147 (June 25, 1967)
Home Town: Otter Lake, Michigan

HAZELIP, CHARLES R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles R. Hazelip (RA15530898), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 12st Battalion, 69th Armor, 4th Infantry Division. Staff Sergeant Hazelip distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 31 May 1967 while serving as Platoon Sergeant of an armor platoon on a cordon and search mission at An Qui. Upon entering the village, Sergeant Hazelip's unit came under heavy attack from a well-entrenched North Vietnamese battalion. During the decisive first minutes of the battle, he exposed himself to the withering fire to direct the fire of his tanks on the enemy positions. When the platoon leader's radio was damaged, Sergeant Hazelip took command of the entire platoon and laid down a heavy barrage of fire to enable the infantrymen to evacuate their wounded. He positioned the combined team for an assault and destroyed many enemy bunkers with his tank and grenades. While organizing a second assault, Sergeant Hazelip exposed himself to a direct hostile fire to aid a wounded comrade. Then, with little ammunition left, he valiantly led a second attack which overwhelmed the enemy and defeated them. His dauntless courage and quick reactions in the early fighting prevented the enemy from seizing control of the situation. Staff Sergeant Hazelip's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty where in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4456 (September 1, 1967)

HEALEY, PAUL V.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Paul V. Healey (RA11472068), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 716th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Group, 18th Military Police Brigade. Private First Class Healey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 31 January 1968 while serving with a military police reaction force during a combined Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army offensive against Saigon. The enemy had launched concerted attacks on installations throughout the city, and his unit was called to dislodge a Viet Cong suicide squad which had taken control of the American Embassy compound. Heedless of enemy fire directed at him, Private Healey rammed the main gate of the Embassy with a jeep in an attempt to gain entrance to the compound. When the gate failed to open, he shot the lock off with a pistol and fearlessly led a charge into the bullet-swept grounds. Braving a savage hail of automatic weapons fire and exploding grenades, Private Healey moved from position to position, killing eight insurgents with rifle fire and grenades as he advanced. He then moved to the rear of the compound to rescue an embassy officer trapped on the second floor of a house occupied on the ground floor by Viet Cong. Fully exposed to withering hostile fire, he raced across the open lawn and hurled a riot gas grenade into the building. The insurgents continued to resist, and he fearlessly approached the building a second time through intense fire and tossed weapons and ammunition up to the unarmed officer. Assured that the man had a means of defending himself, Private Healey withdrew to cover and placed fierce fire on the Viet Cong in the building until they were annihilated. His dauntless and aggressive efforts in close combat saved the life of the fellow American and were instrumental in the successful defense of the United States Embassy. Private First Class Healey's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1173 (March 18, 1968)

HEAPS, GEORGE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to George H. Heaps (RA13529784), Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Detachment A-302, Company A, 5th Special Forces (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Sergeant First Class Heaps distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during the period 2 November 1966 to 5 November 1966 while serving as Special Forces commander of a Vietnamese force during a search and destroy mission in Tay Ninh Province. After infiltration, Sergeant Heaps led his force in a search for Viet Cong units. He engaged small hostile forces, routed the insurgents from their fortifications, and advanced only to encounter increasing numbers of the enemy. Ignoring the intense hostile fire, he moved to an exposed position on high ground and established radio contact with supporting aircraft to guide air strikes on the Viet Cong. Sergeant Heaps quickly followed up with an assault on the enemy positions, inflicted severe damage, and then withdrew and set up a helicopter landing zone to evacuate casualties. The next day, while his unit was distributing ammunition it had received, a Viet Cong regiment attacked the area. Against overwhelmingly superior numbers, he kept his force together and held off the insurgents throughout the day and night. The next morning, during a human wave attack, Sergeant Heaps and another American were severely wounded and left for dead as his men retreated under the hostile onslaught. When he revived, he led a small band of survivors out of the area to an extraction zone, set fire to dry brush to attract helicopters, and was successfully evacuated. Sergeant First Class Heap's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2694 (June 6, 1967)

*HELLENBRAND, DAVID PETER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to David Peter Hellenbrand (US56459836), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry, 2d Brigade, 1st Infantry Division. Specialist Four Hellenbrand distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 December 1968 as point man for his company during a reconnaissance-in-force mission southeast of Phouc Vinh. While breaking a trail through the thick jungle, Specialist Hellenbrand spotted three North Vietnamese soldiers in a bunker who were preparing to ambush his unit. He immediately shouted a warning to the other men and assaulted the entrenched communists, firing his rifle as he advanced. The withering enemy fire mortally wounded him, but he managed to crawl to an opening in the bunker and threw a grenade inside, killing the three hostile soldiers and destroying the fortification. Because of his quickness and courage, he saved many of his comrades from injury or death. Specialist Four Hellenbrand's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1147 (April 3, 1969)
Home Town: Janesville, Wisconsin

HELMICK, ROBERT F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert F. Helmick (OF-104112), Captain (Armor), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company D, 16th Armor, 173d Airborne Brigade. Captain Helmick distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 4 March 1968 while engaged with a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army/Viet Cong force which had captured the northern half of the city of Tuy Hoa. When one of his armored personnel carriers was hit by an enemy rocket during an attack on the entrenched communists, Captain Helmick moved his vehicle over to the disabled track to prevent it from being overrun until both carrier and crew were evacuated. Although weak from loss of blood because of wounds received in the morning, he continued to spearhead his company's efforts and late in the afternoon the enemy was trapped on all sides. Finding that his fire was having no effect against one fortification on the final assault, he jumped from his track with an automatic rifle and killed the occupants of the bunker. Two armored personnel carriers on his right flank received direct hits from hostile rockets and Captain Helmick was again wounded. With complete disregard for his safety, he brought heavy fire against the communists while his stricken comrades were evacuated and exposed himself to the murderous fusillade until the enemy was defeated. Captain Helmick's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1196 (April 7, 1969)
Home Town: Vermillion, South Dakota

HELVEY, ROBERT L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert L. Helvey (0-95281), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 12th Cavalry, 3d Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Captain Helvey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 7 January 1968 while serving as a company commander during a search and destroy mission near Landing Zone Ross in the Que Son Valley. His company was attacked from well-concealed and emplaced positions by an estimated North Vietnamese Army battalion firing machine guns and mortars. One platoon was cut off from the rest of the unit. Captain Helvey sent a call for reinforcements to a sister company and an armored cavalry troop. Then, with complete disregard for his safety, he ran to an advantageous but completely exposed position to direct artillery, aerial rockets and helicopter gunship fire into the massing North Vietnamese. When the armored personnel carriers and tanks arrived he directed an assault which enabled his isolated platoon to rejoin the rest of the unit. The sister company fought through the enemy lines and the three units formed a defensive perimeter. As the North Vietnamese were reinforced and increased their supporting heavy weapons fires, the armored troop's commander was mortally wounded, and vital communications equipment was destroyed. Captain Helvey personally led several counterattacks on the surrounding enemy searching for weaknesses in their envelopment. Determining that a breakout was imperative, he again exposed himself to the intense fire to coordinate the maneuver with all elements. In the breakout the other company commander became a casualty, and Captain Helvey exposed himself to increasingly heavy fire to direct that unit's movement. As he continued the attempted escape, he led his men through an enemy trench line, fighting off the North Vietnamese at ranges as close as three feet. He was painfully wounded in the leg during this action, but he refused medical treatment for himself to successfully complete his units' escape, leading them to the comparative safety of Landing Zone Ross. Captain Helvey's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 5219 (November 10, 1968)

HENDERSON, DONALD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald L. Henderson (RA14519029), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 39th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 9th Infantry Division. Staff Sergeant Henderson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 March 1968 while on a seventeen-man night ambush patrol in Dinh Tuong Province, Vietnam. His small unit was suddenly subjected to a heavy automatic weapons and rocket attack from three sides. Crawling from man to man, Sergeant Henderson discovered that three men, including his platoon leader, had been killed and six others were too seriously wounded to return fire. He skillfully organized the remainder of the group and directed counterfire on the enemy, killing at least four of the attackers. After bringing the wounded within the perimeter he had established, he assigned one man to care for them while he distributed ammunition and offered encouragement to his beleaguered force. As he exposed himself to the Viet Cong weapons to better adjust supporting artillery fire, Sergeant Henderson received gunshot wounds in his left leg and right foot. Refusing to be placed with the other casualties, he directed gunship attacks and artillery strikes on the enemy. He then secured a landing zone and directed the helicopter evacuation of the wounded. Despite the pain of his injuries, he remained with the rest of his men and successfully led them to safety. Staff Sergeant Henderson's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4341 (September 12, 1968)

HENDRICK, RICHARD A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Richard A. Hendrick, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Command and Control (South), Task Force 1, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Sergeant Hendrick distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 April 1971 while serving as the team leader of a small reconnaissance patrol deployed deep within enemy controlled territory. After engaging a hostile force, Sergeant Hendrick deployed his men into a defensive perimeter. Returning to the point of initial contact, he retrieved two wounded allied soldiers and eliminated several enemy soldiers during the rescue mission. As the superior-size force launched an attack, Sergeant Hendrick exposed himself to the hostile fusillade in order to place accurate suppressive fire upon the attackers, repelling their advance. During the second attack, he was wounded by an enemy hand grenade. Ignoring his own wounds, Sergeant Hendrick continued to put devastating fire upon the foe. Summoning air support, he directed their fire upon the belligerent force. Then, as evacuation helicopters arrived, Sergeant Hendrick assisted two wounded soldiers in hooking up to extraction ropes from the hovering aircraft while under constant enemy fire. Sergeant Hendrick's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2264-238 (June 9, 1971)

*HENNESSY, DANIEL A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Daniel A. Hennessy (0-5326579), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 8th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). First Lieutenant Hennessy distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 28 December 1966 while serving as a platoon leader with elements of the 8th Cavalry n a search and destroy mission in Quan Hoai An Province. When his platoon suddenly received intense hostile fire from a nearby village, Lieutenant Hennessy dauntlessly led an assault on the Viet Cong positions. Maneuvering through a hail of bullets, hem moved to the head of the platoon and was the first man to enter the hamlet. Unmindful of his vulnerable position, Lieutenant Hennessy fearlessly engaged the enemy with his rifle and hand grenades. He then called for artillery strikes within ten meters of his own position, which allowed his platoon to reach cover at the edge of a rice paddy. As he shouted orders and pointed out hostile emplacements, Lieutenant Hennessy was critically wounded by Viet Cong fire. Realizing that his wounds were fatal, he courageously continued to direct his men, until finally turning over command to his platoon sergeant with his last words. Demonstrating unimpeachable valor and profound concern for the men under his command, he inspired them to overwhelm and defeat the entrenched hostile force. First Lieutenant Hennessy's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1658 (April 13, 1967)
Home Town: Newtown, Pennsylvania

HENRY, JEFFERY J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jeffery J. Henry (US55826450), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop B, 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 1st Infantry Division. On 24 February 1966, Private First Class Henry was serving as scout observer for an armored personnel carrier. At 0300 hours, the brigade perimeter at Tan Binh, Republic of Vietnam, was attacked by three Viet Cong battalions heavily armed with mortars, anti-tank weapons, and small arms. When the insurgents maneuvered to encircle an infantry patrol some distance to the front of the perimeter, Private Henry's armored personnel carrier and one tank immediately went to the rescue. Three rounds of recoilless rifle fire disabled his vehicle, wounding the armored personnel carrier commander and driver, thereby halting the progress of the vehicle. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Private Henry removed the machine gun from the pedestal mount of the armored personnel carrier and engaged the hostile recoilless rifle crew from an exposed position. Despite intense small arms and hand grenade fire, Private Henry continued to engage the hostile forces placing deadly and accurate suppressive fire on the insurgents until he was ordered to evacuate the vehicle. Private Henry is credited with saving the life of the wounded tank commander by pulling him to the ground when he heard a recoilless rifle crew preparing to fire their weapons. Because of his instantaneous action, both he and the commander were only slightly wounded even though the recoilless rifle struck four feet from them. Private First Class Henry's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Pacific, General Orders No. 181 (August 2, 1966)

HEPP, FERDINAND
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ferdinand Hepp (0-5326580), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). First Lieutenant Hepp distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 October 1966 while serving as platoon leader during a search and destroy mission near Bong Son. As his unit approached a likely ambush location, Lieutenant Hepp radioed for artillery strikes in the area, then moved forward with ten men to investigate some abandoned bunkers. After advancing 50 meters, the element was hit by intense fire from a reinforced Viet Cong company. Lieutenant Hepp tried to link up with the rest of his platoon, but the insurgents had closed behind him and had the small group surrounded. Without a radio, he led his men into the empty bunkers he had just checked and placed himself at the best point to control his men in defending their position until reinforcements arrived. When ammunition ran low, one of his men crawled out to retrieve some rifle ammunition and an anti-tank weapon. As he crawled back into the foxhole with them, however, an enemy shell exploded the weapon, killing the soldier and wounding Lieutenant Hepp. Regaining consciousness an hour later, he found himself nearly deaf, and only one man in his element remained unwounded. During the night, insurgents tried to creep into his position. Lieutenant Hepp calmly killed five of them at nearly point blank range. After directing the defenses of his nearly hopeless position against an overwhelming hostile force for over ten hours, Lieutenant Hepp received reinforcements and dauntlessly led his men through two more hours of fighting before the Viet Cong were driven off. First Lieutenant Hepp's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2324 (May 23, 1967)

HERING, GREGORY D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Gregory D. Hering (0-5339014), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 39th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 9th Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Hering distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 3 June 1968 in Din Tuong Province. His platoon was the lead element of a company which was going to the aid of a sister company pinned down in an open rice paddy by a Viet Cong battalion occupying deeply entrenched bunkers. Suddenly his unit came under heavy fire from the flank. Without hesitation, Lieutenant Hering charged into the enemy with his men and eliminated three communist positions. For the next eight hours, he repeatedly exposed himself to the hostile barrage as he redistributed ammunition, directed return fire and moved from man to man giving advice and encouragement. During the battle he also made nine trips across two hundred and fifty meters of open rice paddy to bring water to the wounded and those who were suffering from heat exhaustion. Another time he left a protected location to run a hundred meters to a wounded soldier who lay trapped under the enemy fusillade. While Viet Cong machine gun fire poured in on the position, he applied first aid to stop the man's bleeding, and then moved him to the protection of a dike. First Lieutenant Hering's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4625 (October 4, 1968)

HERRERA, FERNANDO Q.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Fernando Q. Herrera (US54721540), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop B, 3d Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Herrera distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 December 1968 as a radio telephone operator. As Specialist Herrera's troop moved to assist an infantry unit, it came under intense automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire from well-concealed enemy positions. Unable to communicate with several disabled vehicles, he left his armored personnel carrier and braved a hail of bullets to relay orders from the commander. Seeing one of the tracks become mired on a rice paddy dike, Specialist Herrera ran sixty meters through withering hostile fire to help free the vehicle. After going to the carriers on his right flank to insure that they had sufficient smoke markers to call in air strikes, he then neutralized the enemy rocket-propelled grenade positions with a barrage of machine gun fire, and allowed his unit to continue its advance. When the platoon's mortar track received a direct hit, he brought an injured comrade to the protection of a bomb crater and then went to the medic vehicle to get bandages which he applied to the man's wounds. Although wounded by shrapnel, Specialist Herrera continued to engage the communists with heavy fire and ran sixty meters to another disabled vehicle, successfully maneuvering it back to safety. Moments later when a tank was hit, he carried a machine gun to a position from which he provided covering fire for the evacuation of the wounded. Specialist Four Herrera's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1165 (April 4, 1969)

HETZLER, WALTER G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Walter G. Hetzler, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Detachment B-20, Company B, 5th Special Forces (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Sergeant First Class Hetzler distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during the period 12 to 15 April 1970 while leading an allied reaction element in an effort to recapture a strategically located hill within the boundaries of Dak Pek Special Forces Camp. Shortly after an aggressive enemy assault overtook the vital hilltop, Sergeant Hetzler and his platoon were inserted by helicopter into the area to recapture the hill. During the following four-day period, he personally led five aggressive assaults up the fire-swept incline. Although greatly hampered in his advance by a maze of barbed wire and intense enemy fire, the sergeant continued to probe toward the enemy positions in an untiring effort to overrun the enemy. Throughout the attack, he continuously moved his wounded comrades to covered positions while simultaneously maneuvering his men into more effective assault positions. Although wounded on two occasions, Sergeant Hetzler refused to be medically evacuated and continued his determined leadership. On the fifth allied attempt to break the enemy's defenses, the sergeant successfully led his men to the enemy fighting positions and personally eliminated ten bunkers in vicious close range fighting. Stunned by the intensity of Sergeant Hetzler's attack, the enemy broke contact and fled the hill to the surrounding jungle area. Then, refusing to abandon the hill, Sergeant Hetzler remained with his men to resist the ensuing enemy counterattacks. Ignoring the fusillade of enemy fire, the sergeant moved to a destroyed allied mortar bunker and carried critically needed ammunition to nearby mortar positions. Sergeant Hetzler's determined actions were directly responsible for the successful overrunning of the enemy force and the securing of the strategically located hill. Sergeant First Class Hetzler's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4997 (November 4, 1970)

HEWITT, MELVIN R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Melvin R. Hewitt (ER56211327), First Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. First Sergeant Hewitt distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 25 May 1968. His company's camp was assaulted by a regiment-size North Vietnamese Army force supported by rockets, mortars and artillery, Immediately taking command of a recoilless rifle position, Sergeant Hewitt directed devastating fire which severely damaged the enemy emplacements. The aggressors countered with a savage rocket attack on his position and the gun pit took a direct hit, seriously wounding all the team members. Although injured, he continued to load and fire the weapon by himself until it became inoperable. He then led a small force against the main enemy assault element, deploying his men inside a sump and directing rifle fire and grenades at the onrushing attackers. Suddenly, a North Vietnamese soldier charged the emplacement and hurled a grenade amid him and his troops. With total disregard for his own life, Sergeant Hewitt rolled over and smothered the blast with his legs to protect his comrades. Despite excruciating pain, he insisted on staying in his position until the last enemy attack was driven off. First Sergeant Hewitt's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 21 (January 2, 1969)

HIGHTOWER, THOMAS K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas K. Hightower (0-89905), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Captain Hightower distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 14 February 1967 whiles serving as a company commander with elements of the 12th Cavalry during a battle with an entrenched enemy force at An Qui. After being called upon to link up with a besieged friendly platoon, he ordered his company on a rapid march to the point of contact. Employing smoke to screen his movement, Captain Hightower personally led a rescue team across the bullet-swept rice paddy to the endangered soldiers. Calmly encouraging those who were able to make their way to safety, he supervised the evacuation of the critical casualties and dead. The, hoping to relieve another encircled element, Captain Hightower dauntlessly led two platoons under cover of darkness against the enemy positions. As the force advanced along a trenchline, it suddenly received intense hostile machine gun fire, which killed one man an wounded seven others. Contemptuous of the extreme dangers, Captain Hightower rallied his men and charged forward in an assault that silenced the insurgent emplacement. Crawling on to within a meter of another enemy position, he fearlessly dropped two grenades into the trench and killed three Viet Cong. Inspired by his courageous actions, the two platoons swept through the hostile lines and captured many insurgent weapons and valuable equipment. Captain Hightower's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 2693 (June 6, 1967)

HILL, JAMES H., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James H. Hill, Jr. (RA13751576), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 35th Infantry, 3d Brigade Task Force, 25th Infantry Division. Staff Sergeant Hill distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 May 1967 while serving as squad leader of an infantry company on a search and destroy mission near Duc Pho. Sergeant Hill's platoon was working with engineers clearing and destroying bunkers when they came under intense sniper fire from a bunker complex built into a nearby hill. Reacting immediately, he charged through unwavering fire across forty meters of open terrain to the closest bunker. He jumped on top of the bunker and threw a grenade through the firing port killing the insurgents inside. With firing concentrated on him from all directions, he dashed to the next bunker and climbed atop it. Seriously wounded by the deadly fire, he dropped a grenade inside and moved to the next bunker. Ignoring his injury, he again exposed himself to the Viet Cong snipers as he jumped on top of the third bunker and destroyed it with another grenade. Only after he was sure that the enemy was defeated did he allow himself to be evacuated. His courageous actions were responsible for saving many lives and contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Staff Sergeant Hill's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4966 (September 28, 1967)

*HILL, RICHARD GARFIELD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Richard Garfield Hill (248-80-4103), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company E, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Staff Sergeant Hill distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as squad leader during a patrol southwest of Fire Support Base Compton. When an enemy force opened fire from a flanking location, Sergeant Hill maneuvered his squad into advantageous positions, quickly eliminating six enemy troops. His squad then swept forward and riddled the hostile emplacements with rifle fire. As gunships moved in to bombard the enemy with rockets, Sergeant Hill assisted in evacuating the wounded. Although his men had been ordered to provide security, upon learning that the body of a fellow squad leader had fallen in a wall-forward position, Sergeant Hill immediately volunteered to accompany another squad as it assaulted. Valiantly pressing forward, he eliminated two enemy bunkers single-handedly. As he attempted to destroy a third position, he was mortally wounded by enemy rocket fire. Staff Sergeant Hill's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 446 (February 16, 1970)
Home Town: Essex, Maryland

HITTI, JOHN L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John L. Hitti (0-99872), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 5th Battalion (Airmobile), 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Captain Hitti distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 November 1966 while serving as a Task Force commander during the relief of a unit besieged by Viet Cong. When his first platoon had left the landing zone and moved halfway across an open field, it was struck by accurate machine gun fire and pinned down. While Captain Hitti directed the return fire, he spotted a hidden bunker and personally killed its occupants. Ignoring the bullets striking around him, he then crawled across the ravaged field to another bunker, killed one man, and routed the others. As one insurgent fled, Captain Hitti darted in and out of a hedgerow, in full view of the Viet Cong, and killed him. He cleared a third bunker, then stood up in the midst of the fighting to signal the pinned down platoon to withdraw. Deploying his men to approach from three sides, Captain Hitti led them in overrunning the enemy and destroying the fortified enemy complex. After evacuation helicopters had removed the casualties, he began adjusting artillery fire which protected his company from Viet Cong assault throughout the night. His tactical skill and fearless composure under fire turned an imminent disaster into a costly defeat for the enemy. Captain Hitti's extraordinary heroism 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.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1220 (March 20, 1967)

HOFSTROM, WILLIAM R.
Citation:
The President of the U