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

SABALAUSKI, WALTER JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Walter James Sabalauski (RA36034325), 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, 2d Battalion, 502d Infantry, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. First Sergeant Sabalauski distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during the period 9 to 11 June 1966 while participating in a blocking operation near Dak To. When the Viet Cong occupied jungle suddenly erupted with intense hostile fire from three directions, First Sergeant Sabalauski, realizing that the company commander could not possibly control all the elements in the thick bamboo growth and 50 foot canopies, rallied and directed the beleaguered troops in an attempt to gain fire superiority. With complete disregard for his safety, First Sergeant Sabalauski dashed from position to position and repeatedly exposed himself to muster his unit and quell the hostile fire. As the Viet Cong assaulted the perimeter, First Sergeant Sabalauski quickly organized an assault line and delivered suppressive fire onto the fanatical Viet Cong. After dashing to the rear of the perimeter and observing that the insurgents were surrounding his company, he exposed himself and screamed orders to form a tight defensive perimeter. Although artillery was called in as close as 25 meters from the friendly force and air strikes devastated the jungle around the perimeter, the determined Viet Cong continued to advance. When the company commander called in air strikes on his own position as a last resort, First Sergeant Sabalauski remained on his feet to control the beleaguered paratroopers. For 30 hours, he continued to dash from one side of the perimeter to the other to direct and encourage his men. Although he was wounded himself, First Sergeant Sabalauski aided his wounded comrades, comforted the dying, and continued to direct his men. When reinforcements arrived and a hasty perimeter was again set up, he fearlessly moved forward of the perimeter and retrieved a dead comrade. After a 1,000 meter move to an evacuation point, First Sergeant Sabalauski personally supervised the extraction of the wounded and dead. Through his courage and outstanding leadership throughout the long and perilous battle, he contributed immeasurable to the defeat of the determined Viet Cong. First Sergeant Sabalauski's extraordinary heroism in close combat against a numerically superior hostile force was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 5821 (September 27, 1966)
Born: at Lithuania

*SABEL, JOEL MICHAEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Joel Michael Sabel (RA19848614), 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, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). Specialist Four Sabel distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 10 July 1967 while serving as a medic of an Airborne infantry company on a combat mission deep in hostile territory. When his company came under heavy automatic weapons and mortar fire from a well entrenched enemy force, Specialist Sabel repeatedly ignored his own safety to move among his wounded comrades to treat them. Seriously wounded himself, he refused medical aid and instructed others in treating the injured while he bandaged his own wounds. He continued to expose himself to the withering hostile fire while rendering constant aid to others despite his own injuries. With mortar and automatic weapons falling around him, he never stopped to consider his own welfare. He was mortally wounded while bravely caring for the needs of his comrades in the face of grave danger. Specialist Four Sabel'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. 4663 (September 14, 1967)
Home Town: West Covina, California

SACKETT, WILLIAM P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William P. Sackett (US56722289), 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, 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Sackett distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 30 November 1968 while serving as fire team leader on a combat mission in Long An Province. When his platoon became stalemated in a fierce exchange of fire with a hostile force, Specialist Sackett immediately began moving through the embattled area to direct return fire and prevent disorganization among the novice members of the platoon. As he approached one of his positions, an enemy hand grenade landed near four of his comrades. He instantly scooped up the device, turned his back to shield his fellow soldiers, and tossed the grenade back to the enemy. Although the grenade exploded in mid-air wounding him with fragmentation, he, without hesitation, proceeded to assist the only other wounded man through the hostile barrage to an evacuation point. Refusing evacuation himself, he returned to the contact area to assist his platoon in the prolonged battle. Specialist Four Sackett'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. 2219 (June 24, 1969)

*SANCHEZ, THOMAS JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas Joseph Sanchez (RA19452350), Master 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-108, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Master Sergeant Sanchez distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 March 1966 while serving as Special Forces advisor to a Vietnamese reaction unit during the rescue of an ambushed combat patrol near Minh Long. When radio contact with American advisors in the patrol was lost, Sergeant Sanchez unhesitatingly volunteered to fly into the battle torn area to search for the men. He found thirty Vietnamese survivors near the point of conflict and hastily organized them to secure a landing zone for the infiltration of reinforcements. When 28 more troops landed, Sergeant Sanchez deployed the men and moved toward the ambush site. Contemptuous of the threat of another attack, he took the point position and led his men in a rigorous search of the area. The unit was hit by heavy fire after moving less than 500 meters. Sergeant Sanchez hastily led the force out of range of the hostile weapons. He then noticed the absence of an American advisor and two Vietnamese sergeants. Fearlessly ignoring the constant fire around him, he reentered the killing zone alone to find the lost men. Although he was observed being wounded by machine gun fire, he continued to search for the men. Sergeant Sanchez was last seen firing furiously at the Viet Cong, while making a last, gallant effort to reach his comrades. Master Sergeant Sanchez' 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. 1731 (April 15, 1967)
Home Town: Pasadena, California

SANDERS, HORACE G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Horace G. Sanders, First Lieutenant (Artillery), 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 Battery C, 7th Battalion, 9th Artillery, 5th Field Artillery Group. First Lieutenant Sanders distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as executive officer when his battery came under intense mortar, rocket and ground attack on 18 May 1969. As the enemy forces began their assault against the northeast perimeter, Lieutenant Sanders moved to the first howitzer section to supervise the direct fixing of his high-explosive and beehive rounds on the charging force. Although severely wounded when the howitzer section received rocket-propelled grenade fire, he directed those men who could to withdraw to the second howitzer position where they continued to fire on the enemy. After establishing strong retaliatory fire, Lieutenant Sanders then returned on four different occasions to the first howitzer section to retrieve wounded personnel. When a heavy enemy barrage fatally wounded a man near the second howitzer position, Lieutenant Sanders, unaware that the man was fatally wounded, ran into the hostile fusillade to bring him to safety. Throughout the ensuing battle he continued to move from position to position encouraging him men and directing their return fire. On being notified that concentrated hostile fire was coming from a building near the battery, he moved to the fifth howitzer section to direct fire on the building, causing several secondary explosions. First Lieutenant Sanders' 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. 105 (January 12, 1970)

SANDERS, JAMES R., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James R. Sanders, Jr., 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 D, 2d Battalion, 1st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. Captain Sanders distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 and 20 March 1969 as company commander during an assault on Hill 187 near Tien Phuoc. As the lead element neared the crest of the hill, the well-entrenched enemy opened up with automatic weapons and grenade fire. Captain Sanders quickly organized an on-line assault to distract the enemy while the wounded were safely evacuated. Realizing that without additional support his men could not penetrate the hostile fortifications, he ordered a withdrawal. He then stormed the hill alone, killed one communist soldier and recovered several weapons left by his casualties. While returning to the rallying point, he sustained a fragmentation wound in his knee. Refusing medical aid he proceeded to call in gun ship air strikes and bombing runs on the enemy bunker complex. On 20 March Captain Sanders and his men quickly routed the enemy and secured the mountain fortress. When the hostile forces launched a counter-mortar attack on his company, Captain Sanders directed suppressive artillery fire on suspected enemy positions and constantly exposed himself to the hail of incoming mortar rounds to aid and evacuate the wounded. Captain Sander'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. 2470 (July 9, 1969)

*SANDERSON, JACK JOHNSTONE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Jack Johnstone Sanderson (RA11644077), 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, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. Private First Class Sanderson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 24 November 1968 while serving as a medical aidman during a reconnaissance-in-force mission near Tan Tru. As his platoon approached a dense woodline it came under a sudden barrage of hostile fire. Two of his comrades were wounded and fell in an area completely exposed to the enemy gunners. Private Sanderson courageously moved forward through the fusillade to one of the casualties and, in full view of the communists' emplacement, began to administer first aid. When the man died in spite of his efforts, Private Sanderson, disregarding his safety, charged across the open rice paddy to where the other injured soldier lay. While he was treating this man, an element from his platoon moved to engage the enemy bunker and was fired upon from a previously undetected position, resulting in several more wounded. Once again he braved the hostile fire and went to their aid. As he went from man to man, searching for survivors, he was seriously wounded by enemy rifle fire. Despite sever pain and rapid loss of blood, he managed to drag himself up to the last soldier. Finding that none of the men were alive, he started crawling back to his unit's location, but died from his wounds before he reached safety. Private First Class Sanderson'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. 473 (February 11, 1969)
Home Town: Warsaw, New York

*SANTA CRUZ, JOSE ANGEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Jose Angel Santa Cruz (527-78-4025), 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, 3d Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division. Private First Class Santa Cruz distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 February 1970 while serving as a member of an ambush patrol in Tay Ninh Province. Private Santa Cruz and his comrades were attempting to make contact with hostile forces when enemy movement was detected a short distance from the patrol. Private Santa Cruz and his platoon leader immediately advanced toward the enemy troops in an effort to surprise them. Suddenly, Private Santa Cruz observed an enemy trooper toss a grenade toward his platoon leader. Without hesitation, Private Santa Cruz threw his body between his comrade and the grenade, thus shielding him from the ensuing blast. Although Private Santa Cruz was killed instantly, his unselfish action saved the life of his comrade. Private First Class Santa Cruz'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. 3188 (July 13, 1970)
Home Town: Glendale, Arizona

*SANZONE, ROBERT BENJAMIN (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Benjamin Sanzone (US51579676), 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, 8th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. Sergeant Sanzone distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 18 May 1967 while serving as squad leader with a weapons platoon during a search and destroy mission in Pleiku Province. Sergeant Sanzone's platoon was sent 200 meters forward of his company to provide security for the main force. Before the men had a chance to position themselves, they received intense rifle and machine gun fire. Sergeant Sanzone was hit five or six times immediately, but ignored the pain to direct his squad in placing a base of effective fire on the Viet Cong. Five insurgents tried to attack his position, but he killed them with his rifle. Later, another ten tried to overrun his perimeter sector, and he stopped them with both grenade and rifle fire. When fellow patrol members tried to reach cover in a river bed, Sergeant Sanzone disregarded his own safety and exposed himself to the enemy to draw their fire. He continuously crawled from one friendly casualty to another to treat their wounds and to help them reach covered positions. Although weakened by his wounds, he continued to repel the insurgents. Seeing a swarm of Viet Cong storm the friendly line again, Sergeant Sanzone charged them, firing his rifle on full automatic. He was mortally wounded in this valiant attempt to protect his comrades. Sergeant Sanzone'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. 3828 (July 26, 1967)
Home Town: Levittown, New York

*SARACINO, FRANK DEPAUL, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Frank DePaul Saracino, Jr. (RA16918149), Sergeant, 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 Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Sergeant Saracino distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 March 1969 as a squad leader during a mission to assess the damage done by a B-52 bomber strike seven miles northwest of Dau Tieng. Sergeant Saracino was serving as point man when his platoon came upon the bunkers of a base camp occupied by a North Vietnamese Army battalion. Motioning for the other men to take cover, he single-handedly assaulted the first position and destroyed it with a hand grenade. He then led his troops further into the fortified area, shooting and killing two communists whom he spotted trying to escape from a second fortification. The platoon continued to advance, but suddenly became pinned down by machine gun and antitank rocket fire. Exposing himself to the hail of bullets, Sergeant Saracino placed suppressive fire on the enemy which enabled his comrades to withdraw and remained behind until they had all reached a more secure location. After three air strikes were directed against the enemy base camp, he again led his men forward and made another one-man assault against a bunker, killing its two occupants with hand grenades. As he was starting toward another stronghold, a heavy caliber machine gun started to fire on the platoon. Seeing that several of his men were exposed to the deadly fusillade, he attempted to save them by engaging the hostile position and drawing its fire to himself. While attempting to throw a hand grenade at the machine gun emplacement, he was killed by the enemy barrage. Sergeant Saracino'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. 1724 (May 14, 1969)
Home Town: Fort Collins, Colorado

*SAUBLE, THOMAS EUGENE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas Eugene Sauble (0-4005263), 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 Advisory Team 1, United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. Captain Sauble distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 13 March 1967 while serving as an advisor to the Hieu Nhon Sub-Sector Headquarters when it was attacked by elements of a North Vietnamese battalion. Slightly wounded when he was blown from his bunk by the initial mortar barrage, Captain Sauble dauntlessly moved to his defensive position outside the advisory team quarters. Moving about the bunker directing the defense and calling for ammunition, he repeatedly exposed himself to better engage the enemy. Captain Sauble's accurate return fire and aggressive example inspired his comrades as they prevented the insurgents from overrunning their emplacement on the first attack. Once the bunker became untenable, he fearlessly covered the withdrawal of the other team members into the building, and then assumed an open position on the porch. Contemptuous of the enemy fire striking around him, he fired his carbine into the charging North Vietnamese. When one of the advisors was thrown from the structure by an explosion, Captain Sauble pulled the man to safety and resumed his gallant stand. Even after being fatally wounded, he fell to a sitting position and continued to fight until succumbing to his wounds. His boundless courage and resolute determination were instrumental in breaking the hostile attack and saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. Captain Sauble'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. 2001 (May 2, 1967)
Home Town: York, Pennsylvania

*SAULS, ROBERT NED
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Ned Sauls (W-2217750), Chief Warrant Officer (W-2), 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 Battery, 8th Battalion, 26th Artillery, 254th Field Artillery Detachment, I Field Force. Chief Warrant Officer Sauls distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions from 23 February to 10 March 1969 as commander of his radar detachment at Fire Support Base Twelve, near Ben Het, during a siege of the base by North Vietnamese forces equipped with mortars, cannons, automatic weapons and small arms. Exposing himself to the barrage, Mister Sauls located many enemy firing emplacements both visually and by using radar. On six occasions he braved the intense fire to assist in evacuating casualties and frequently directed gun ships against the communists' locations. When the bombardment began on 23 February, he went to the area under heaviest attack where he manned a mortar and machine gun position, and when the need arose drove his jeep through the hail of fire to obtain ammunition. On 27 February and 1 March he received fragment wounds from incoming mortar rounds. Seeing a bunker take a direct hit on 6 March, he repeatedly entered the burning structure to remove casualties, weapons and ammunition. While monitoring the Special Forces' communication network on 10 March, Mister Sauls heard that a friendly element had received heavy casualties. He unhesitatingly drove to the site and found a seriously wounded soldier lying in the road. Braving enemy rounds which were impacting within twenty yards, he helped move the man to the safety of a trench and treated his wounds. He then went to a severely injured Vietnamese officer and was administering first aid when a hostile round struck nearby, fatally wounding him. Chief Warrant Officer Sauls' 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. 1556 (May 2, 1969)
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia

SAVAGE, CLYDE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Clyde E. Savage (RA14746198), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Savage was serving as squad leader in the 2d Platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), on 14 November 1965, when it was attacked by a hostile force which consisted of approximately two companies. As an offensive measure, Sergeant Savage led his squad and attacked one of the hostile squads. During the attack, the bulk of the hostile force hit them. He immediately pulled his men in tight and succeeded in inflicting numerous casualties on the insurgent force. The rest of the platoon was also under intense fire and had to take a defensive position on a nearby knoll. During the fierce battle that followed, Sergeant Savage saved the lives of three comrades who had been wounded by killing three insurgents who had maneuvered to within ten meters of their position. The platoon leader, platoon sergeant, and weapon's squad leader were mortally wounded, at which time Sergeant Savage assumed command. With most of the men either dead or wounded and being completely surrounded, the platoon continued holding off the insurgents for twenty-six hours. Sergeant Savage courageously called in supporting artillery fire to within fifty meters of their positions during the night. The following morning he shot over thirty of the insurgents during the bitter fight. His leadership during the battle influenced his men to hold out until reinforcements relieved them. Sergeant Savage'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. 195 (February 1966)

*SCARBOROUGH, EDMUND BAGWEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Edmund Bagwel Scarborough (OF-105268), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on 10 May 1968 while serving as Commanding Officer, Company C, 5th Battalion (Mechanized), 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division, in Gia Dinh Province, Republic of Vietnam. While in contact with an enemy force of battalion strength, Captain Scarborough's company and another company to his front were halted by a devastating crossfire. Captain Scarborough was ordered to pass through the now-beleaguered lead company and maneuver against the enemy's flank. He immediately organized his mechanized assault and positioned himself in an extremely exposed location from which he could control the advance. Although the enemy force immediately engaged the advancing element with antitank rockets, small arms and automatic weapons fire, Captain Scarborough continued to lead his men, direct the fire of all available weapons and maintain the advance. Realizing the psychological value of Captain Scarborough's exceptional leadership, the enemy began to concentrate all of their firepower at his position. Captain Scarborough continued his utter disregard for his personal safety and remained exposed, directing the consolidation and supporting fires until he was fatally wounded by the concentrated enemy fire. As a direct result of Captain Scarborough's courage the enemy lost 26 KIAs, 3 POWs and 7 weapons were captured. Captain Scarborough's professional competence, grim determination and personal example inspired his men to victory and reflects the utmost credit upon himself and the United States Army.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 80 (December 16, 1968)
Home Town: Belle Haven, Virginia

SCHER, DONALD M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald M. Scher (0-89593), 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 C, 3d Battalion, 12th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. Captain Scher distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 17 November 1967 as commanding officer of an infantry company during the battle at Dak To. While advancing up hill 1338, his unit was hit by a devastating mortar and automatic weapons barrage from an enemy force occupying well concealed positions. Captain Scher quickly deployed his men in a defensive position and maneuvered through a hail of bullets and shrapnel to direct their fire on the hostile fortifications. Moving to the front of his men, he led them inch by inch up the hill into an intense enemy fusillade. He called for artillery and air strikes when the North Vietnamese firepower prevented further advancement. Completely disregarding his personal safety, he stood up and directed the ordinance on enemy bunkers and trenched. Captain Scher resumed his ground assault as the strikes lifted. Despite the renewed North Vietnamese barrage, he moved back and forth across the hillside, encouraging his men's advance and treating casualties. One wounded soldier was pinned down in the open by relentless fire. Captain Scher crawled to his aid, skillfully administering treatment to the man and carried him to safety. Exposing himself to enemy weapons time after time, he pressed his company's assault, overran the crest of the hill, and routed the hostile forces. Captain Scher'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. 2017 (1968)
Home Town: Fort Dix, New Jersey

SCHLOTTMAN, JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James Schlottman (0-5419228), First Lieutenant (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 A, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). First Lieutenant Schlottman distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 2 October 1966 while serving as aerial artillery observer during a search and destroy mission near Ngot Bay. As his helicopter surveyed a hostile position, Lieutenant Schlottman spotted an insurgent running from the area, landed, and captured the man. Later, an infantry platoon made contact with insurgents in a nearby village. He directed the pilot to hover at 20 feet over the enemy and, despite a constant hail of hostile machine gun fire, he kept the Viet Cong under grenade and rifle fire for one hour. As a Viet Cong rifleman fired directly at his door gunner, Lieutenant Schlottman stepped into the line of fire and killed the insurgent with a single shot. When his helicopter landed to pick up a seriously wounded medic, Lieutenant Schlottman fearlessly jumped from the helicopter and charged a machine gun position. Using only his pistol, he was able to silence one weapon. Hostile fire so damaged the aircraft as it took off, that the pilot could fly it only 150 meters. Determined to continue the destruction of the enemy, Lieutenant Schlottman ran from the helicopter onto the battlefield with a radio and guided artillery strikes on the Viet Cong positions. First Lieutenant Schlottman'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. 2379 (May 25, 1967)

SCHOCH, NICHOLAS W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Nicholas W. Schoch, 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, 3d Battalion, 187th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile). Specialist Four Schoch distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during the period 10 to 18 May 1969 while serving as a medical aidman during a mission to capture the enemy citadel of Dong Ap Bia Mountain. On 10 May his company engaged an entrenched North Vietnamese force, and Specialist Schoch rushed to the area of fiercest conflict and began to administer medical aid to the wounded. Once, he moved to aid three seriously wounded men lying in an area completely devoid of cover. While treating one of the men, he became the target of a sniper in a nearby tree. Taking the weapon of the man he was treating, he killed the sniper. On 13 May his unit assaulted the enemy stronghold and again came under heavy concentration of hostile fire. As Specialist Schoch was applying first aid to the wounded of the lead element, the medical aidman of another platoon sustained serious wounds and could not breathe. Braving hostile fire, he skillfully performed a tracheotomy on his wounded comrade who resumed breathing and was evacuated. Later as he was treating a casualty, an enemy fragmentation grenade fell near him and the wounded man. He instantly grabbed the grenade and threw it into a nearby bomb crater and then eliminated the enemy soldier who had thrown the device. After completing treatment, he carried the American to a landing zone for evacuation. On the following day, Specialist Schoch treated and evacuated four wounded soldiers who had been well forward in a maneuver toward the summit of the mountain. On 15 May, as the battle for the hill still raged, a helicopter carrying ammunition was downed by hostile fire. Despite the fact that the burning aircraft might explode at any moment, Specialist Schoch ran to the wreckage and retrieved an unconscious survivor and carried him through a barrage of sniper fire to safety where he administered first aid, saving the man's life. For the remainder of the day and until 18 May, he took charge of medical treatment and evacuation on the emergency landing zone. Specialist Four Schoch'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. 133 (1970)
Home Town: St. Helena, California

SCHOLTUS, DAVID
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to David Scholtus, 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, 3d Battalion, 1st Infantry, Americal Division. Specialist Four Scholtus distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 July 1969 when his company and a sister unit became pinned down by heavy fire from a well-entrenched enemy force. Despite the support of gunship and tactical air strikes, the two infantry companies were unable to gain ground or dislodge the enemy from their positions. Directing his squad to place down a heavy base of fire, Specialist Scholtus rushed across thirty meters of open terrain to engage an enemy position. Although subjected to intense volumes of hostile fire, he destroyed the enemy emplacement with rifle fire and hand grenades. He then maneuvered under fire to within twenty feet of a second enemy position. After hurling a grenade to suppress the defenders' fire, he charged the emplacement and silenced its occupants. The stalemate broken by his bold actions, the infantry companies were now free to advance and sweep over the enemy force. Specialist Four Scholtus' 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. 3906 (October 18, 1969)

*SCHROEDER, DONALD BENJAMIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald Benjamin Schroeder (0-70498), 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, 2d Battalion, 39th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 9th Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Schroeder distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 18 August 1968 while elements of his battalion were in heavy contact with a Viet Cong main force battalion near Can Ciuoc. He used his own command and control helicopter, in the midst of heavy enemy fire, to illuminate the landing zone for one element's insertion when a flare ship was forced to leave the battle because of a fuel shortage. After determining that it would be approximately twenty minutes before his men could complete their encirclement of the enemy and that the communists would quickly use a gap between two of his companies as an escape route, Colonel Schroeder ordered his pilot to land. With two other men, he stationed himself in the center of the unguarded area and began firing on the communists, who almost immediately began to probe his position. He successfully prevented their escape for thirty minutes until reinforcements arrived. As the battle progressed the Viet Cong threatened to penetrate another area. Colonel Schroeder unhesitantly moved across two fire-swept rice paddies to the endangered location. With complete disregard for his safety, he began positioning troops to meet the threatened breakout and remained in the front line directing his units' maneuvers until the enemy attempt was repelled. Lieutenant Colonel Schroeder'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. 4042 (October 31, 1968)
Home Town: Clearmont, Wyoming

*SCHUBERT, JOEL LUTHER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Joel Luther Schubert (RA28153264), 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, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry, 2d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Private First Class Schubert distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 24 October 1967 while serving as senior medical aidman to an infantry company conducting a search and destroy operation deep in enemy territory. As the company was moving through thick jungle underbrush, the lead element was savagely attacked by a well camouflaged Viet Cong squad, and suffered several wounded troops. When he heard their urgent pleas for medical aid, Private Schubert, without hesitation, rushed to treat his stricken comrades. Despite the intensity of the hostile fire, he courageously moved through the bullet swept area to within fifteen meters of a Viet Cong emplacement and administered first aid to a seriously injured soldier. While treating the casualty, Private Schubert was wounded by a burst of enemy automatic weapons fire. Despite his wound, he gallantly began moving from one casualty to the next, applying his skill until he had expended his medical supplies. He then crawled back to the friendly positions, resupplied himself and returned to continue his lifesaving mission amid the hail of enemy bullets. He received a mortal wound as he feverishly treated his fallen comrades. Private First Class Schubert'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. 6442 (December 14, 1967)
Home Town: San Francisco, California

*SCHULTZ, ROBERT WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert William Schultz (RA17636005), 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 Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 47th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. Staff Sergeant Schultz distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 31 January 1968 as squad leader of a mechanized infantry platoon on a combat mission in the village of Ho Nai. His squad and other members of the platoon became isolated and encircled by a numerically superior force firing recoilless rifles, machine guns, and automatic weapons. The troops on the ground were immediately pinned down by the savage fusillade and Sergeant Schultz' armored personnel carrier was forced to halt. To relive the pressure on his comrades he leaped from the vehicle and assaulted an enemy machine gun nest, single-handedly destroying it and its occupants. Although seriously wounded, he again disregarded his safety and unleashed another personal attack on a second machine gun position. Hurling grenades as he charged through a curtain of hostile fire, Sergeant Schultz killed the entire gun crew. He was mortally wounded while gallantly defending his fellow soldiers in the heat of battle. Staff Sergeant Schultz' 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. 1599 (April 9, 1968)
Home Town: Clinton, Iowa

SCHUNGEL, DANIEL F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Daniel F. Schungel (0-65286), 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 Company C, 5th Special Forces (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Lieutenant Colonel Schungel distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 and 7 February 1968 as the commander of the Special Forces camp at Lang Vei. A North Vietnamese Army force launched an armor-supported ground assault on the camp under cover of intense mortar, artillery and rocket fire. When the enemy tanks broke through the defensive wire of the camp, Colonel Schungel, disregarding the heavy volume of incoming artillery rounds, moved outside the command bunker to personally organize and lead a tank killer team in a fierce counterattack on the enemy armor. He moved through the intense and accurate fire from the tanks' coaxial machine guns and personally destroyed one of them with a light anti-tank weapon. When three occupants of the tank emerged from the turret, he engaged them in close combat and killed all three. As the determined enemy began an assault on the command bunker, he directed all personnel in the area to take cover while he remained behind to provide covering fire. He was wounded by the blast from an exploding round which hit the barrier he was using for a shield. He then sought safety for himself, carrying a wounded comrade with him. When air strikes had momentarily silenced the enemy guns, he led his men from the bunker where they had taken cover to a safe area. Lieutenant Colonel Schungel'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. 4107 (August 26, 1968)

SCHWEITZER, ROBERT L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert L. Schweitzer (0-77192), 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 and Headquarters Company, 1st Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Schweitzer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 December 1966 while serving as aerial observer during the defense of the village of Tam Da. Colonel Schweitzer received word that a Viet Cong battalion was approaching the small village and hastened to intercept the enemy. Ignoring intense fire aimed at his aircraft, he had its pilot fly low over the insurgents to accurately determine their size and deployment. Then, as his pilot landed inside the hamlet, he radioed for infantry troops and artillery and air fire support. Colonel Schweitzer alerted the hamlet's troops and gathered civilians into bunkers just before the Viet Cong struck with devastating force. When friendly artillery rounds began coming in, he left the village to guide the strikes from the air. Two insurgents were noticed, at this time, running from a concealed tunnel entrance. Colonel Schweitzer killed both of them with a rapid burst of fire, then landed to investigate the tunnel. Fearlessly probing the underground passages alone, he discovered and disarmed four booby traps before coming upon three insurgents in a hollowed out chamber. In the brief fight, he killed two of them and captured one. After mining the tunnels for destruction, he re-boarded his helicopter with the prisoner and intelligence materials. Colonel Schweitzer the continued surveillance of the Viet Cong forces, repeatedly exposing himself to hostile fire to discover hostile maneuvers. Through his brilliant direction, the American forces and firepower were able to decisively rout the large Viet Cong unit and save the village of Tam Da. Lieutenant Colonel Schweitzer'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. 2059 (May 5, 1967)

*SCHWELLENBACH, GARY RALPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Gary Ralph Schwellenbach (RA18907134), Private First Class, 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 as a platoon aidman with Company A, 3d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade. On 27 December 1967, during a heliborne assault into an enemy held landing zone, Corporal Schwellenbach's unit was taken under heavy enemy automatic weapons and sniper fire. Although seriously wounded shortly after arriving on the landing zone, Corporal Schwellenbach continued to aid the wounded. With complete disregard for his own safety, he moved among the wounded in the open area of the landing zone which was receiving the most intense enemy fire. Moving his comrades t cover he was wounded a second time. Refusing medical aid for himself, he continued his mission. He received a third and fatal wound while administering aid to a wounded man. The actions of Corporal Schwellenbach saved the lives of many wounded troopers and his indomitable spirit encourage all who witnessed his acts. Corporal Schwellenbach's conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism and intrepidity, at the cost of his life, are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect the utmost credit upon himself and the armed forces of his country.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 57 (October 17, 1968)
Home Town: Chico, California

*SCIBILIA, ROBERT PETER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Peter Scibilia (001-38-1766), 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, 3d Battalion, 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Scibilia distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 23 May 1969 while serving as a rifleman during a reconnaissance-in-force operation near My Tho in Kien Hoa Province. After the company had been inserted into the area, the enemy unleashed a barrage so intense that the unit was forced to withdraw and regroup. Armed with several M-72 light anti-tank weapons, grenades, and his rifle, Specialist Scibilia crawled toward the entrenched enemy and then stood to accurately fire his M-72 and silence the position. He then directed his fire against another fortification, eliminating the position and advancing against yet another which he destroyed with two hand grenades. Although wounded during this last action, he continued to press his attack until he was mortally wounded. Specialist Four Scibilia'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. 3292 (August 26, 1969)
Home Town: Nashua, New Hampshire

SCOTT, JAMES A., III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James A. Scott, III (0-93930), 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 92d Assault Helicopter Company, 10th Combat Aviation Battalion, 17th Combat Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. Captain Scott distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 3 February 1968 as the team leader of an aerial fire team supporting ground operations in Dalat. The ground forces encountered heavy enemy fire which halted their advance, and Captain Scott made repeated low-level passes over the battle area to pinpoint the insurgents' positions. His aircraft was riddled by the fire directed at it, but he succeeded in locating targets for his team and led it in an attack on the enemy emplacements. He then flew to a nearby airfield to rearm and refuel his craft. The field was under mortar attack, and Captain Scott had to replenish his ship amid a hail of shrapnel. As he once more orbited the city looking for trouble spots, his helicopter received enemy anti-aircraft fire and he was wounded. Captain Scott found the source of the fire and again led his team in the attack. As his aircraft broke away from the target, it was struck again by the murderous enemy fusillade and the tail rotor control cables were severed. Despite the tremendous handicap, Captain Scott ski fully maneuvered his crippled ship into position for yet another attack on the enemy position. When he was unable to maintain positive control over his helicopter, he nursed it to the airfield once more and executed a successful emergency landing. Captain Scott's' extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service reflecting great credit on him and the U.S. Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 3477 (July 19, 1968)

SCOTT, JON E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jon E. Scott, 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, 12th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. Sergeant Scott distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 5 November 1969 while serving as squad leader with a reconnaissance patrol during an operation southwest of Landing Zone Tape. Hearing enemy movement in the distance, the patrol proceeded to the area from which the sounds came and there discovered as enemy base camp situated in four natural caves. As the surprised enemy scurried for their cave fortifications, the patrol took them under fire and succeeded in capturing one of the enemy. From the caves the enemy responded with heavy automatic weapons fire. Seeing one enemy soldier run into a cave alone, Sergeant Scott approached the cave, entered, and captured the surprised enemy. Sergeant Scott then turned his attention to the other caves. Under continuous and intense fire, he maneuvered to the openings of the caves one by one and hurled hand grenades inside. At the mouth of the largest cave, from which the heaviest enemy fire was coming, Sergeant Scott tossed grenades within and killed one enemy soldier. He then rushed inside the cave to engage the remaining defenders and was severely wounded in a barrage of automatic weapons fire. Sergeant Scott'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. 875 (April 15, 1970)
Home Town: Glenhaven, California

*SEE, OTTO WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Otto William See (RA13704655), 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 Troop A, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division. Sergeant First Class See distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 March 1968 while serving as the observer on the lead ship of an aero-scout team reconnoitering an area in Quang Tri Province suspected to contain an enemy regimental headquarters. After locating the communists' barracks, the team called in armed helicopters which fired rockets into the buildings. As the scout ships returned to the area to assess the damage, they and the troop commander's helicopter came under intense automatic weapons fire. The troop commander and his pilot were wounded, and their craft crashed. Sergeant See immediately volunteered to attempt a rescue. Because his helicopter was unable to land near the crash site, he jumped from its skid as it hovered over the wreckage. The downed craft had begun to burn, and its still running engine was spewing fuel on the spreading flames. Sergeant See climbed inside the ship and pulled the wounded out one at a time. As he started to carry the casualties up a ravine for extraction by a waiting aircraft, a North Vietnamese company began to advance on his position to cut off his maneuver. Armed only with a pistol, he returned their fire while continuing to assist the injured up the hill. Upon reaching the landing zone, he put the casualties safely aboard the ship and remained behind with some of its crew members, fighting off the aggressors until another rescue helicopter arrived. Platoon Sergeant See'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. 5200 (November 8, 1968)
Home Town: Summersville, West Virginia

*SEIBERT, RICHARD J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Richard J. Seibert (0-5338151), 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 D, 3d Battalion, 21st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade (Light) (Separate). Second Lieutenant Seibert distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 8 January 1968 while serving as platoon leader of an infantry unit during a search and clear operation in the Que Son Valley. Shortly after noon, his platoon was heavily attacked by an enemy force firing from a treeline. With bullets striking all around him, Lieutenant Seibert unhesitantly led a fierce attack on the hostile positions. His men became pinned down by a withering hail of bullets, and he crawled forward alone and destroyed one position with well-placed grenades. Intense machine gun fire raked his position from the flank, and he fearlessly directed his assault on the second Viet Cong emplacement. After crossing a river, he charged the fortification across an open rice paddy. He quickly reached a low dike and hurled two grenades into the machine gun nest which demolished the weapon and killed its crew. He repeatedly exposed himself to enemy weapons to draw fire away from his men and allow them to join the attack. When it became evident that his unit was surrounded, Lieutenant Seibert rallied his men to fight their way through the insurgents' lines. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he led a furious charge into a curtain of enemy fire to break through the encirclement. He was mortally wounded while gallantly leading his men against heavy odds in the heat of battle. Second Lieutenant Seibert'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. 871 (February 26, 1968)
Home Town: Far Hills, New Jersey

SELLERS, RICHARD D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Richard D. Sellers, Warrant Officer (W-1), 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 E, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Warrant Officer W1 Sellers distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 5 January 1971 while piloting a helicopter during rescue operations near Lai Khe. Learning that an American helicopter had been shot down and its survivors were in close proximity of enemy troops, Warrant Officer Sellers volunteered to attempt a rescue and flew to the site of the wreckage. As he approached the location of the downed aircraft, his helicopter became the target of intense enemy ground fire. Unable to land, Mister Sellers had to hover his rescue airship while one of the wounded soldiers was lifted aboard. Suddenly, a barrage of automatic weapons fire sprayed upon his helicopter, necessitating an evasive departure in order for a helicopter gunship to saturate the area with suppressive fire. Although his helicopter sustained battle damage, the defiant Mister Sellers again brought his helicopter to a hover over the remaining crew members. Amid a fusillade of enemy bullets, Warrant Officer Sellers remained in this vulnerable position until all were on board and then proceeded to Phuoc Vinh's medical hospital. Warrant Officer W1 Sellers' 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. 1325 (April 20, 1971)

SERGENT, ORVILLE W., III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Orville W. Sergent, III, Specialist Fifth 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 366th Aviation Detachment (Divisional), 165th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. Specialist Five Sergent distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 May 1969 during an enemy attack on Fire Base Oasis. Specialist Sergent moved through the barrage of incoming mortar rounds to take up a position on the perimeter. When the bombardment ceased and a force of about one hundred sappers armed with satchel charges and grenades stormed the berm, Specialist Sergent delivered a fusillade of rifle fire on the assailants. Despite the heavy retaliatory fire, the enemy penetrated the defense line. Specialist Sergent immediately left his bunker and directly engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. Seeming to be everywhere at once, he shot a sniper who had wounded one of his comrades. He eliminated two more enemy sappers while fighting his way toward two wounded men, whom he succeeded in removing to safety. When a hostile sniper killed the detachment sergeant who was attempting to secure munitions from a conex container, Specialist Sergent quickly shot the sniper and then carried the needed ammunition to several firing points. For two hours he continued to engage the enemy, always remaining in the open, and he proved most instrumental in repelling the hostile force and in preventing another penetration. Specialist Five Sergent'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. 3310 (August 29, 1969)

SEVERSON, DANIEL J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Daniel J. Severson (OF-103149), 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, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). First Lieutenant Severson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 16 January 1967 while serving with elements of the 503rd Infantry on a search and destroy operation near Ben Cat. As company Executive Officer, Lieutenant Severson was accompanying the point platoon when it made contact and assaulted a hostile bunker complex. During the intense fire-fight that ensued, several friendly casualties were sustained, including the platoon leader. Lieutenant Severson immediately assumed command and, exposed to the devastating fire, moved along the line shouting encouragement, distributing ammunition and directing fire into the insurgent emplacements. Inspired and calmed by his gallant leadership, the platoon quickly regrouped and killed four Viet Cong before being ordered to withdraw. As the unit stated to pull back, it suddenly received murderous fire from a hidden gun on the right flank. Lieutenant Severson dauntlessly advanced toward the Viet Cong position, until he was knocked unconscious by an exploding grenade, which killed his radio operator and disabled his weapon. Regaining consciousness, and armed only with grenades, he single-handedly assaulted the hostile emplacement, but was painfully wounded in the leg. With complete disregard for his safety, he continued to crawl forward and silenced the weapon, killing one insurgent. Refusing medical treatment, Lieutenant Severson covered the platoon withdrawal and returned to the company perimeter only after ensuring that none of his dead or wounded were left behind. Demonstrating boundless courage and aggressive determination, he further assisted the commander in directing air strikes which routed the hostile force. First Lieutenant Severson 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. 1064 (March 12, 1967)

*SEVERSON, PAUL ROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Paul Roy Severson (RA16830445), Specialist Fifth 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. Specialist Five Severson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 25 August 1968 while serving as a platoon leader during an assault on enemy-controlled bunkers and trenches in the Duc Lap Special Forces camp. Specialist Severson, pinned down initially by a heavy volume of small arms and automatic weapons fire, joined another American and began a two-man assault on an estimated two platoons of North Vietnamese Army troops. Braving a withering hail of hostile fire, they seized the first bunker. They then rushed another bunker, and when grenades failed to silence its weapons, Specialist Severson moved around the fortification and killed the enemy inside with rifle fire. He then entered the communist-held trench line. Moving forward alone under heavy fire, he encountered four aggressors and killed two of them before he was mortally wounded. Specialist Five Severson'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. 4562 (October 1, 1968)
Home Town: Glenwood, Illinois

*SHAFFER, EARL THOMAS, SR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Earl Thomas Shaffer, Sr. (RA34761131), 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 A, 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 3d Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). First Sergeant Shaffer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 December 1968 during a search and clear mission in a rubber plantation in Binh Long Province. His company's mortar platoon was attacked by an estimated two companies of North Vietnamese regulars. The three other platoons attempted to reach the besieged element, but were halted by intense fire from several enemy machine guns, forcing them to deploy into a defensive perimeter. Despite the repeated assaults of the numerically superior foe, Sergeant Shaffer insisted on continuing to the stranded platoon. Moving beyond his company's perimeter, he crawled past several hostile machine gun positions to the surrounded unit's location where he found six men wounded and in need of medical attention. He treated the men while remaining exposed to intense enemy fire. Spotting the platoon leader lying seriously wounded, he unhesitatingly went to his assistance, although warned the man's position was covered by an enemy machine gun. He was able to reach him, but was fatally wounded as he began to render medical aid. First Sergeant Shaffer'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. 405 (February 5, 1969)
Home Town: Covington, Georgia

SHARPE, MERLE J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Merle J. Sharpe (0-5239461), 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 A, 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Sharpe distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 7 May 1968 as the commanding officer of a mechanized infantry company during an operation in Gia Dinh Province. During his first few moments of contact with a reinforced Viet Cong battalion located in a built-up residential area, Lieutenant Sharpe was severely wounded and his command vehicle destroyed by enemy rocket fire. Refusing evacuation, he moved to another track, propped himself up in a highly vulnerable position and continued to direct his company's maneuver, supporting artillery, gunships and air strikes. When the air strikes were completed Lieutenant Sharpe personally led his unit in a house-to-house assault on the Viet Cong. Despite the pain of his wounds, he refused medical evacuation for six hours, until the enemy had been routed from the area. As a result of his courageous leadership, the enemy lost two hundred and thirteen dead by body count. First Lieutenant Sharpe'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. 4524 (September 28, 1968)

*SHAUGHNESSY, EDWARD JEROME
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Edward Jerome Shaughnessy (122-34-1507), 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, 52d Infantry, 198th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. Private First Class Shaughnessy distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 May 1969 while defending Landing Zone Stinson. A numerically superior enemy force breached the landing zone's defensive perimeter and quickly captured several bunkers under cover of intense rocket and mortar barrages. On perimeter guard at the time of attack, Private Shaughnessy left his bunker and rushed through the storm of incoming projectiles to take up a position close to where the sappers were concentrating their assault. He slowed the sappers' infiltration with heavy volumes of strafing machine gun fire. When the gun malfunctioned, he again ran under fire to another friendly emplacement to obtain hand grenades. He then charged one occupied bunker and eliminated its captors with well-placed grenades. Seeing a team of sappers cutting their way through the perimeter wire, he repelled the intruders by unleashing on them the remainder of his grenades. Private Shaughnessy then secured two M-72 Light Anti-tank Weapons, maneuvered close to the last enemy-held fortifications, and destroyed them. Private First Class Shaughnessy'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. 3786 (October 7, 1969)
Home Town: Hawthorne, California

*SHAW, CLARENCE LEE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Clarence Lee Shaw (RA67136332), 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 D, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. Specialist Four Shaw distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 7 November 1967 while serving as acting sergeant of an infantry unit on a two-company search and destroy operation near Loc Ninh. Specialist Shaw and his squad were providing flank security for his company when forward elements located and killed an enemy sniper. A large Viet Cong force immediately triggered a savage attack on the entire unit with claymore mines, automatic weapons and small arms fire. After quickly deploying his squad in an extremely effective defensive perimeter, he repeatedly exposed himself to the intense barrage to locate the targets and direct fire on the enemy positions which inflicted heavy casualties on the determined insurgents. He was seriously wounded when the Viet Cong began hitting his position with accurate rocket fire, and his squad was ordered to join the main body of the company. Completely disregarding his own safety, Specialist Shaw directed his men to move back while he remained behind to cover their movement. The Viet Cong intensified their attack on his position, but instead of seeking shelter, Specialist Shaw braved the withering fire and charged the advancing enemy, inflicting heavy casualties on the attackers with rifle fire and grenades. He was mortally wounded while unselfishly placing the lives of his fellow soldiers above his own welfare in the face of grave danger. His gallant actions completely disorganized the insurgents and enabled his company to totally defeat them in a fierce battle. Specialist Four Shaw'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. 6501 (December 18, 1967)
Home Town: Ardmore, Oklahoma

*SHAW, GARY FRANCIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Gary Francis Shaw (RA11703347), 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 C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). Private First Class Shaw distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 November 1967 as radio operator of an airborne infantry company conducting a search and destroy mission near Dak To. The unit was moving down a ridgeline covered with thick bamboo when it was savagely attacked by a North Vietnamese battalion firing mortars, rockets and automatic weapons. Heavy casualties were suffered by the lead platoon, and Private Shaw immediately volunteered to go to the aid of his wounded comrades. Braving withering enemy fire, he raced from one clump of bamboo to another as he advanced seventy-five meters down the hill to where the stricken paratroopers lay. With bullets striking all around him, he began to pull the wounded from the killing zone and carry them up the hill to safety. He saw one casualty fall in an exposed area while attempting to crawl from the ambush site unassisted. Ignoring exploding mortars and grenades, Private Shaw moved to the man and dragged him to the company's defensive perimeter. He then returned to the base of the ridge and killed at least six of the assaulting North Vietnamese with fierce rifle fire as other members of his unit rescued the remaining wounded. He was instantly killed while gallantly covering their withdrawal. Private First Class Shaw'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. 1487 (April 2, 1968)
Born: March 13, 1948 at Windsor, Nova Scotia, Canada
Home Town: Toledo, Ohio

*SHAW, WILLIAM FREDERICK, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William Frederick Shaw, Jr. (250-86-7102), 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 D, 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry, 3d Brigade, 9th Infantry Division. Sergeant Shaw distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 August 1970 while serving as a machine gunner during allied reconnaissance operations in Binh Duong Province. As darkness approached on 6 August 1970, Sergeant Shaw manned his machine gun position at the edge of a bomb crater while the remainder of the company prepared their positions nearby. Suddenly a friendly observation post, located approximately twenty meters from the sergeant, was raked by a volley of enemy fire, wounding one of the observers. Because of the proximity of his position to the besieged allies, Sergeant Shaw could not provide effective counter fire without endangering them. Realizing immediate action was essential, the sergeant secured his machine gun and assaulted the enemy forces, firing his weapon as he advanced. Although wounded by the enemy fire that was now directed almost entirely at him, he never faltered in his advance and continued firing at the enemy until he was fatally wounded soon thereafter. Because of his determined actions, the remainder of the company was able to successfully react to the enemy force and insure the relative safety of the allied observers. Sergeant Shaw'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. 5110 (November 20, 1970)
Home Town: Columbia, South Carolina

SHEA, THOMAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas Shea, 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, 4th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Shea distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 May 1969 while serving as a member in the defense of Landing Zone Penny. During the early morning hours enemy mortars and rockets began raining on the base. A force of North Vietnamese quickly penetrated the barbed wire barrier and swarmed into the camp flinging satchel charges. Taking control of a machine gun bunker, the hostile force began firing the fifty-caliber weapon at mortar and artillery positions within the perimeter. Specialist Shea quickly crawled toward the enemy position and silenced it with hand grenades. Then, after securing an M-16 rifle, he made his way toward the tactical operations center which was the target for the main invading force. As he approached, the communists unleashed a torrent of small arms fire. Specialist Shea was knocked to the ground when a round struck him in the leg. He crawled to a machine gun position where he secured the weapon and walked directly toward the enemy with the machine gun blazing. His aggressive assault forced the hostile soldiers back, enabling a reaction force to sweep in and secure the perimeter. Specialist Four Shea'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. 3423 (September 7, 1969)

*SHERRILL, JAMES J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to James J. Sherrill (RA14583660), 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 Advisory Team 64, U.S. Army Advisory Group, United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. Sergeant First Class Sherrill distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 31 January 1968 while serving as advisor to a Vietnamese Regional Force unit on a combat mission near Chau Doc. When Viet Cong elements invaded the city as part of their Lunar New Year offensive, Sergeant Sherrill immediately led four platoons in an attempt to drive the enemy out. The road to the town was blocked by a hostile force firing small arms, machine guns and grenades. Sergeant Sherrill quickly deployed his men for an assault through the Viet Cong lines. He then mounted his jeep and manned the machine gun in support of their advance on the enemy. A fellow soldier maneuvered to knock out an enemy machine gun with a recoilless rifle, but was pinned down by ravaging fire from the position. Sergeant Sherrill fully exposed himself to the insurgents' weapons and delivered devastating fire on the hostile emplacement to allow the man to move forward and destroy it. His troops' furious attack forced the Viet Cong to slowly pull back, and he tenaciously maintained pressure on the determined enemy. As he drove forward in the jeep, it was raked by automatic weapons and grenade fire. Severely wounded, he took cover behind the vehicle and returned fire with his rifle. Completely disregarding his welfare, he fought on until his ammunition was expended. Defenseless, he fearlessly remained in his tenuous position until he succumbed to his wounds. His courageous leadership inspired his men to continue their assault, and to defeat the enemy forces. Sergeant First Class Sherrill'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. 1174 (March 18, 1968)
Home Town: Dover, Tennessee

SHORTMAN, PHILLIP V.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Phillip V. Shortman, 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, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Private First Class Shortman distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 August 1969 while serving as a rifleman during a mission to establish a forward patrol base near Hieu Thien. After his unit had been airlifted into the landing zone and had begun to move away, an enemy force opened fire from the cover of a hedgerow, pinning the company down. Observing how the hostile fire was decimating his platoon, Private Shortman crawled forward through the fusillade to within fifteen meters of the enemy and tossed a grenade into a spiderhole bunker. As he moved back to his element's position, he carried two wounded comrades from their exposed location and immediately rendered first aid. As the deadly hail of hostile fire continued to riddle the area, Private Shortman again crawled forward in the face of the enemy to recover an M-60 machine gun left by a casualty. After a second perilous trip to secure ammunition, he commenced to unleash a devastating barrage which enabled the casualties to be evacuated and caused the enemy to flee. Private First Class Shortman'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. 4036 (October 31, 1969)

*SIDERS, MARVIN ISAAC
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Marvin Isaac Siders (OF-110427), 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 D, 2d Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 3d Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. Captain Siders distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 November 1968 while leading his company on a search and clear operation. The unit made contact with a large, well-entrenched North Vietnamese Army force and during the initial volley was pinned down by the intense hostile fire and sustained heavy casualties. Captain Siders moved through the aggressors' barrage to effectively position his troops and organize the evacuation of the wounded. After guiding in the ambulance helicopter and insuring that the injured men were safely evacuated, he ran to the foremost fighting position and directed both aerial rocket artillery and air strikes to within one hundred meters of his location. As he moved forward during a brief lull in the fighting to assess the damage of the tactical air strikes, the enemy suddenly unleashed a heavy bombardment of rocket, semi-automatic and automatic weapons fire. From his advanced position, Captain Siders spotted a strategic bunker which was directing the greatest volume of fire on his element. He immediately maneuvered toward the emplacement in a courageous attempt to draw the hostile fire. Skillfully employing his weapon and hurling grenades as he charged, Captain Siders was within feet of the fortification before being mortally wounded. Captain Siders' 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. 387 (February 4, 1969)
Home Town: Macy, Indiana

SILVERSTEIN, WILLIAM I.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William I. Silverstein (W-3152753), Chief Warrant Officer (W-2), 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 170th Assault Helicopter Company, 52d Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. Chief Warrant Officer Silverstein distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 and 22 March 1967 while piloting a helicopter during a battle in Kontum Province. As the action opened Miser Silverstein volunteered to fly through intense hostile machine gun fire and the trajectory of enemy mortars and friendly artillery to the battle area to deliver the S-3 to the battalion command group. When one company reported that all its leaders had been either killed or wounded, he again volunteered to insert necessary personnel although the unit was in heavy contact and the only possible landing zone was in thick jungle behind North Vietnamese Army positions. After successfully landing seven men, he flew to a fire base, returned with ammunition and other vital supplies and, while under heavy enemy fire, lowered them through the dense foliage to the desperate ground troops. As night fell, an ambulance helicopter was shot down as it attempted to extract a wounded man and Miser Silverstein promptly inserted medical aidmen to care for the soldier. Learning that a raging brush fire had isolated the medics from other friendly elements, he returned through darkness and the communists' fusillade to evacuate them. Despite choking smoke and leaping flames he twice hovered over a bomb crater until all the medics were extracted. As the night progressed, he remained aloft to act as an aerial radio relay for the ground units, despite the fact that his ship was constantly revealed to hostile gunners by flares and illumination rounds. Responding to a call from a unit with fifteen wounded, he was driven away on his initial approach by the tremendous concentration of enemy fire, yet he returned to insert the battalion surgeon and evacuate two of the injured soldiers. He then shuttled back and forth through towering trees, darkness, and the North Vietnamese barrage to guide other ships into the landing zone. As the casualties were being evacuated, he spotted a hostile mortar position which was shelling the Americans and directed a gunship attack which destroyed it. Chief Warrant Officer Silverstein'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. 119 (January 11, 1969)

*SIMMONS, BURNELL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Burnell Simmons (RA14350143), 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 Battery A, 2d Battalion, 320th Artillery, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. Staff Sergeant Simmons distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 15 October 1967 while serving as chief of a howitzer section supporting ground operations near Tam Ky. Late at night, a large Viet Cong force savagely attacked his camp with mortars, rockets, and small arms. The speed and intensity of the enemy assault overran the outposts, but Sergeant Simmons dashed to the battery under heaviest attack and rallied his men to fight furiously against the determined onslaught. He was seriously wounded by exploding grenades when the insurgents reached the parapets of his gun emplacement, but he refused aid and prepared the gun for direct fire against the onrushing enemy. Completely ignoring his own safety, he stood up amidst the fierce barrage to locate the hostile troop concentrations and fire rounds which momentarily stunned the insurgents and drove them back. Despite the continued fire, he dashed into the open to treat the wounded men and carry them to safety. He moved through the intense barrage time after time to direct fire on the determined insurgents and continue treating the casualties. He was mortally wounded while gallantly leading his men in the face of grave danger. His fearless leadership inspired his men to fight fiercely and repel the overwhelming Viet Cong attack. Staff Sergeant Simmons' 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. 6014 (November 21, 1967)
Home Town: Leary, Georgia

SIMONS, ARTHUR D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Arthur D. Simons, Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism while commanding the ground element of a joint United States task force on an operation deep in North Vietnam on 21 November 1970. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Colonel Simons voluntarily participated as a member of a Joint Task Force with the humanitarian mission of rescuing United States military personnel held as prisoners of war at the Son Tay Prison Compound approximately twenty nautical miles from Hanoi, the capital of North Vietnam. In an outstanding display of leadership and personal courage, Colonel Simons led the ground force in the rescue effort. On the ground, the search and rescue element was immediately taken under automatic weapons fire by the enemy. While directing and supervising the operation, Colonel Simons continually exposed himself to enemy fire and, on one occasion, personally took under fire enemy personnel in close proximity to his position. The success of the operation was the direct result of Colonel Simons' calm and competent leadership in an extremely hazardous situation. His professional conduct instilled confidence in his men and resulted in an outstanding operation. Colonel Simons' extraordinary heroism was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit on him and the United States Army.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 32 (July 13, 1971)

SIMONS, JAMES P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James P. Simons (0-5532898), First Lieutenant (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 Troop A, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (airmobile). First Lieutenant Simons distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 17 December 1966 while serving as team leader of a helicopter scout group during a ground search and destroy mission near Bong Son. When initial ground contact with Viet Cong was made, Lieutenant Simons began flying at tree-top level on the outskirts of the battle area to prevent enemy escape. He began to receive machine gun fire and maneuvered so that the observer with him could fire on the insurgents, killing two of the enemy in this manner. He then began to reconnoiter the battle area for landing zones in preparation for infiltration of a rifle platoon. He received intense machine gun fire from two small clearings but returned the fire and mortally wounded a Viet Cong gunner. Finding a zone free of enemy control, he led the helicopters through a successful infiltration. After rearming and refueling his aircraft, Lieutenant Simons returned and found the friendly force in close combat with the insurgents. Despite intense ground fire, he flew at tree-top level to mark hostile positions with smoke grenades for supporting armed aircraft. When it became evident that the ground troops were still unable to maneuver because of the heavily fortified Viet Cong emplacement, Lieutenant Simons hovered his helicopter over the hostile bunkers and dropped grenades on them. Seeing friendly casualties stranded near the insurgent emplacements, he hovered in front of the enemy positions, attracting the insurgents' fire while the casualties were carried to safety. His aircraft was damaged by several enemy rounds, but he skillfully landed it outside the area of contact. First Lieutenant Simons' 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. 4455 (September 1, 1967)

*SIMPSON, MICHAEL PAUL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Michael Paul Simpson (US54817844), 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 D, 2d Battalion, 14th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Sergeant Simpson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 September 1968 during a reconnaissance-in-force operation near Cu Chi. His unit received intense fire from an enemy force concealed in well fortified bunkers. Sergeant Simpson moved through the bullet-swept area, positioning his men and calling in artillery fire upon the hostile positions. Disregarding his safety, he assaulted an enemy bunker. Although wounded as he began his attack, Sergeant Simpson continued through the communists' fusillade and completely destroyed the fortification. As he attempted to recover the body of a fallen comrade near another hostile emplacement, he was killed by enemy fire. Sergeant Simpson'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. 5469 (November 27, 1968)
Home Town: Mattoon, Illinois

SINCERE, CLYDE J., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Clyde J. Sincere, Jr., 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 Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Captain Sincere distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during the period 8 through 11 November 1966, while serving as Special Forces Senior Advisor to a Vietnamese Company engaged in search and destroy operations near Plei Trap. On 8 November, Captain Sincere personally led his forward element in an attack on two antiaircraft guns. His men killed four insurgents, and captured their weapons and 35 packs of information concerning future enemy operations. On the night of 10 November, while Captain Sincere was separated from his company, it received an attack from a large Viet Cong force. When the acting commander was seriously wounded, and the unit's ammunition was nearly exhausted, Captain Sincere flew into the ravaged landing zone to bring supplies and to lead the force out of the enemy circle. He jumped from the helicopter before it touched down and fearlessly ran, through a tremendous outburst of fire, toward the nearest cover. Insurgents hidden at this position wounded him, but he was able to evade further fire and reached his own lines. Captain Sincere took command of the defenses, and again entered the bullet-swept field with a small group to retrieve the critical supplies. Upon returning to his own lines, he distributed the ammunition, called in air and artillery strikes, and enabled the company to break contact with the Viet Cong the next day. His fearless actions under intense hostile fire gave his men the leadership and inspiration to work as an effective fighting force. Captain Sincere'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. 1219 (March 20, 1967)
Born: September 11, 1932 at Coleman, Wisconsin
Home Town: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

*SIZEMORE, CLARENCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Clarence Sizemore (402-58-3806), 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, 20th Infantry, 11th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. Sergeant Sizemore distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 May 1969 while in charge of a bridge security force near Landing Zone Liz at Duc Pho in Quang Ngai Province. In the early morning hours his position was attacked by a North Vietnamese platoon of sappers utilizing machine guns, small arms, and rocket-propelled grenades. Seeing that the communists had penetrated the defenses near the north end of the bridge, he raced over there, releasing bursts from his automatic weapon at the aggressors as he ran. After he had killed one enemy soldier and repelled the assault, he returned to the opposite end of the bridge to re-supply his ammunition, only to discover that a hostile force had overwhelmed several nearby bunkers. He rushed one of the captured fortifications, killed the occupant, and obtained rounds for his rifle. He was racing back toward the northern end when an enemy grenade detonated near him, spraying his legs with shrapnel. Noticing that the platoon radio-telephone operator lay helplessly wounded near the center of the bridge, and despite his own wounds, he crawled to the aid of the injured man. Sergeant Sizemore remained by his comrade as the ruthless assailants closed in from both sides. While attempting to hold the enemy at bay, he was mortally wounded by rifle fire. Sergeant Sizemore'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. 2672 (July 17, 1969)
Home Town: Manchester, Kentucky

*SKAGGS, LONNIE G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lonnie G. Skaggs (US55885152), 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, 2d Battalion, 28th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. Specialist Four Skaggs distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 27 April 1967, near Ben Suc, Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Skaggs was serving as a machine gunner on a search and destroy mission when his company was suddenly engaged by a hostile force. Seeing that the point man was instantly wounded, Specialist Skaggs moved quickly to the front and engaged the enemy allowing the company medic to move to the wounded man's aid. Under the covering fire of Specialist Skaggs, the company began withdrawing to allow artillery and airstrikes on the hostile positions. Exhausting his supply of ammunition, Specialist Skaggs called for an additional supply. When he was resupplied, Specialist Skaggs moved forward and exposed himself to the heaviest enemy fire by standing on top of a bunker, and continued placing suppressive fire on the hostile forces until all wounded were evacuated and the entire company had withdrawn. When the artillery fire and air strikes were completed, the company started back to the battle area. Specialist Skaggs volunteered for point man