Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Comments
9sep1966 20Dec 1992
09Sept2011
2008
National Defense Service Medal (2001-2022)
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria Awarded by the Vietnam Government to military personnel who have accomplished deeds of valor or displayed heroic conduct while fighting the enemy and have been cited individually at the regiment, brig... Awarded by the Vietnam Government to military personnel who have accomplished deeds of valor or displayed heroic conduct while fighting the enemy and have been cited individually at the regiment, brigade, division, corps, or armed forces level. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need n... The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need not be consecutive, if it was performed within a period of twelve consecutive years. For the purpose of this award service as a member of a Reserve component MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a... The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a degree that would warrant the award of the Legion of Merit. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exe... The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Comments Comments Pending
1994
Army Reserve Component Overseas Training Ribbon
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training o... The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training or Active Duty for Training for a period not less than ten consecutive days on foreign soil. The service member must be credited with completion of at least ten consecutive duty days outside the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and U.S. possessions and territories in the performance of duties in conjunction with Active Army, joint services, or Allied Forces. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments
Mississippi Flood rescue saved 4 men from drowning
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian... The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. The Humanitarian Service Medal is only awarded for service during the identified "period of immediate relief;" eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal terminates once (if) the humanitarian action evolves into an "established ongoing operation beyond the initial emergency condition." MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exe... The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian... The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. The Humanitarian Service Medal is only awarded for service during the identified "period of immediate relief;" eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal terminates once (if) the humanitarian action evolves into an "established ongoing operation beyond the initial emergency condition." MoreHide
Criteria The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian... The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. The Humanitarian Service Medal is only awarded for service during the identified "period of immediate relief;" eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal terminates once (if) the humanitarian action evolves into an "established ongoing operation beyond the initial emergency condition." MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exe... The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exe... The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian... The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. The Humanitarian Service Medal is only awarded for service during the identified "period of immediate relief;" eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal terminates once (if) the humanitarian action evolves into an "established ongoing operation beyond the initial emergency condition." MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exe... The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Best Moment
At sea on the LST 1174; USS Grant County
Other Memories
Reunion Name: 3d Bn, 10th Marine Regiment (3/10) Deactivation Date from: Apr 26, 2013 Date to: Apr 26, 2013 Place: WPT Hill Field City: Camp Lejeune State: NC Person to Contact: John Black Phone: 910 450-8317 Email: john.r.black@usmc.mil Web Page: Comments: 3/10's deactivation will be held 26th April @1300 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC at the WPT Hill field for any questions or concern please feel free to contact me. ALT PHONE: 9104508315 (1stlt Nilan)
Best Friends
Refresher training at Guantanamo Bay in late January 1969 was followed by two weeks of amphibious warfare training in the Virginia capes area. In April, Austin took part in special amphibious exercises before beginning another deployment to the Caribbean on 18 May. During the four-month cruise, she was involved in Operation "Exotic Dancer II," held off Puerto Rico and visits included San Juan and Roosevelt Roads, La Guaira, Venezuela; Colon, Panama; Guantanamo Bay; Bridgetown, Barbados; and St. Thomas. This deployment ended on 10 September, and the ship began a period of leave and upkeep at Norfolk.
Other Memories
Austin Class Amphibious Transport Dock: ?Laid down, 4 February 1963, at New York Naval Shipyard, Brooklyn, N.Y. ?Launched, 26 June 1964 ?Commissioned USS Austin (LPD-4), 6 February 1965, CAPT. William H. Shaw in command ?Austin was the lead ship of her class and varies from the rest in that she has no hanger. The Austin class LPDs are based on the design of the earlier Raleigh class LPDs ?While in commission USS Austin was assigned to COMPHIBGRU2, COMNAVSURFLANT, homeported at NAB Little Creek, VA. ?Decommissioning date, 1000, 27 September 2006, at Pier 1 Naval Station Norfolk, VA. ?Struck from the Naval Register, 27 September 2006 ?Final Disposition, scrapping contract awarded, 22 May 2009, to International Shipbreaking, Ltd, Brownsville TX. -------------------------- Specifications: Displacement 9,734 t.(lt), 17,326 t.(fl) Length 570' Beam 84' Draft 23 ft. Speed 21 kts. Complement 24 Officers 396 Enlisted Troop Accommodations 900 Flag Staff Accommodations 90 Boats Assault Craft, (well deck capacity) 1 LCU or 1 LCAC, or 2 LCM-8 or 4 LCM-6, (ships boats) 2 LCPL, 1 motor whaleboat Armament two 25mm MK38 chain guns two Phalanx CIWS eight 50 cal. machine guns. Aircraft up to six CH-46/CH-53 or four UH-1/AH-1, or two AV-8B Harriers Propulsion two Foster-Wheeler boilers two DeLaval steam turbines two propellers, 24,000 Shaft Horsepower
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Worst Moment
The engine on our Assault Amphibious Vehicle stalled for a few minutes during a landing. The Crew chief had to pull the driver off the controls and take his place before re starting the vehicle and continue the landing. Remember always sit under the exit hatches for a fast get away!
Other Memories
Name: USS Grant County Namesake: Grant County Builder: Avondale Marine Ways, Inc., Avondale, Louisiana Laid down: 15 March 1956 Launched: 12 October 1956 Commissioned: 17 December 1957 Decommissioned: 15 January 1973 Struck: 30 December 1977 Fate: Loaned to the Brazilian Navy, 15 January 1973 Sold to Brazil, 1 February 1980
Best Friends
Pfc Donald R. Rash, Pocahontas, VA (Navy Cross)
Worst Moment
Last Known Activity A Note from The Virtual Wall An action by Bravo 1/26 on 30 March 1968 was reflected only by a brief comment in the Battalion's Operations Journal: "30 MAR 1968 SUMMARY: Co B conducted a search and destroy mission. During this patrol Co B received mortar and small arms fire causing 71 WIA's, nine KIA's, and two MIA's." but there was more to it than that. Quoting from the 1/26 Command Chronology for March 1968, "Intelligence sources revealed that Company B met and defeated in detail the main elements of a NVA Battalion, inflicted 115 NVA KIA and destroyed numerous amounts of ammunition, weapons, and equipment. The operation resulted in ten friendly KIA, two MIA, and 100 WIA, 49 of which were evacuated. ... The aggressive fighting spirit of Company B combined with supporting arms fire enabled the company to engage and defeat in detail a numerically superior enemy force entrenched in mutually supporting fortified positions, in the first planned offensive attack of a known enemy position in the battle for KHE SANH Combat Base." The bodies of the two "missing in action" Marines were subsequently recovered. The twelve men who died in the engagement were 1stLt Marion H. Norman, Houston, TX (A Btry, 1st Bn, 13th Marines) Sgt Donald A. Warren, San Diego, CA Cpl David A. Aldrich, Gibsonburg, OH Cpl Albert R. Sanford, Russellville, KY (H&S Co with B/1/26) LCpl Wayne P. Moore, Plymouth, MA LCpl Author C. Smith, Glen Allen, AL Pfc David B. Anderson, Avoca, IA Pfc Ted D. Britt, Decatur, GA (Silver Star) Pfc Jimmie L. Jones, Cordova, AL Pfc Donald R. Rash, Pocahontas, VA (Navy Cross) Pfc Jose Ruiz, New York, NY Pfc Kenneth R. Totten, Brewster, NY 1stLt Norman was the Artillery Forward Observer; he was killed by a mortar shell which also seriously wounded the Bravo Company Commander, Captain K. W. Pipes, and all members of the company command group. The two men reported as missing in action were LCpl Author Smith and Pfc Ted Britt; their bodies were subsequently recovered.
Other Memories
A Note from The Virtual Wall The 1/26 Marines Command Chronology for February 1968 contains the following entry: At 9:15 AM, 25 Feb 3rd Plt, Bravo 1/26, a platoon minus security patrol, was taken under automatic weapons fire and was also receiving grenades from bunkers and trenches at XD849409. Artillery and mortar fire was called to assist in withdrawal. Support elements moved into position to provide cover by fire. The enemy force was estimated to be a Company of larger. Contact resulted in 24 friendly MIA, 17 friendly WIA, and six friendly KIA. The patrol was about 1 kilometer south of the Khe Sanh Combat base when it came across an NVA observation post. The Marines opened fire on the NVA troops, who withdrew south. The Marines pursued the NVA and in so doing entered an ambush zone. The NVA allowed the Marines to approach within 15 feet before opening fire from concealed bunkers, spider holes and trenchlines. A reaction platoon was sent as reinforcements, but when it attempted to outflank the enemy position the platoon leader realized that his unit was being outflanked and sandwiched between the NVA position and additional enemy troops. The best the platoon leader could do was to provide covering fire for the remnants of the patrol as they withdrew, bringing out their wounded and six of their dead - but 24 men, most of them known to be dead, could not be brought out. Three of the 24 were able to evade the NVA on their own and made their way back to friendly lines. The 27 Americans who died in the action were
2ndLt Donald Jacques, Rochester, NY SSgt George McClelland, Passaic, NJ Cpl Frederick A. Billingham, Trenton, NJ Cpl Michael J. Brellenthin, North Bergen, NJ Cpl Kenneth W. Claire, Redwood City, CA Cpl Bruce E. Jones, Rockland, MA Cpl Donald E. Whitaker, Durham, MO LCpl Ronald P. Akins, Akron, OH LCpl James R. Bruder, Allentown, PA LCpl Jerry L. Dodson, Collinsville, IL LCpl Charles G. Geller, East St Louis, IL LCpl Phillips Hayes, New Orleans, LA LCpl Michael J. Laderoute, Boston, MA LCpl Richard W. McKenzie, Oxnard, CA HN Lloyd W. Moore, Wilmington, NC Pfc Michael B. Baptiste, Tampa, FL Pfc Joseph C. Battle, Houston, TX Pfc Doyle G. Clay, Chicago, IL Pfc John A. Lassiter, Slidell, LA Pfc Henry McDonald, Philadelphia, PA Pfc Kim E. Meads, Chicago, IL Pfc Arnold J. Rivera, El Paso, TX Pfc Willie J. Ruff, Columbia, SC Pfc David C. Scarbrough, Marietta, OH Pfc Walter F. Skinner, Soledad, CA Pfc Douglas W. Smith, Fort Worth, TX Pfc Clayton J. Theyerl, Racine, WI Several searches of the area were conducted over the following weeks, and eventually it was believed that all recoverable remains had been found - but one Marine remained missing. Sergeant Ronald L. Ridgeway of Houston, Texas was thought to have died in the fighting, but on 16 March 1973 he was released from Hanoi with other POWs.
Best Moment
Combat Operations 1967/1968
3 May - 16 1967 Jul Crockett
1 Nov - 31 Mar 1967-68 Scotland
19 Jan - 8 Apr 1968 Seige of Khe Sanh
26 Feb - 12 Sep 1968 Houston
28 Feb - 9 Dec Napoleon/Saline
1 Apr - 15 Apr Pegasus
14 Apr - 28 Feb 1969 Scotland II
3 May - 24 Aug Allenbrook
25 Jul - 12 Sep Houston II
Worst Moment
Last Known Activity An action by Bravo 1/26 on 30 March 1968 was reflected only by a brief comment in the Battalion's Operations Journal: "30 MAR 1968 SUMMARY: Co B conducted a search and destroy mission. During this patrol Co B received mortar and small arms fire causing 71 WIA's, nine KIA's, and two MIA's." but there was more to it than that. Quoting from the 1/26 Command Chronology for March 1968, "Intelligence sources revealed that Company B met and defeated in detail the main elements of a NVA Battalion, inflicted 115 NVA KIA and destroyed numerous amounts of ammunition, weapons, and equipment. The operation resulted in ten friendly KIA, two MIA, and 100 WIA, 49 of which were evacuated. ... The aggressive fighting spirit of Company B combined with supporting arms fire enabled the company to engage and defeat in detail a numerically superior enemy force entrenched in mutually supporting fortified positions, in the first planned offensive attack of a known enemy position in the battle for KHE SANH Combat Base." The bodies of the two "missing in action" Marines were subsequently recovered. The twelve men who died in the engagement were * 1stLt Marion H. Norman, Houston, TX (A Btry, 1st Bn, 13th Marines) * Sgt Donald A. Warren, San Diego, CA * Cpl David A. Aldrich, Gibsonburg, OH * Cpl Albert R. Sanford, Russellville, KY (H&S Co with B/1/26) * LCpl Wayne P. Moore, Plymouth, MA * LCpl Author C. Smith, Glen Allen, AL * Pfc David B. Anderson, Avoca, IA * Pfc Ted D. Britt, Decatur, GA (Silver Star) * Pfc Jimmie L. Jones, Cordova, AL * Pfc Donald R. Rash, Pocahontas, VA (Navy Cross) * Pfc Jose Ruiz, New York, NY * Pfc Kenneth R. Totten, Brewster, NY 1stLt Norman was the Artillery Forward Observer; he was killed by a mortar shell which also seriously wounded the Bravo Company Commander, Captain K. W. Pipes, and all members of the company command group. The two men reported as missing in action were LCpl Author Smith and Pfc Ted Britt; their bodies were subsequently recovered. Comments/Citation Marion Henry Norman First Lieutenant A BTRY, 1ST BN, 13TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV United States Marine Corps 27 September 1940 - 30 March 1968 Houston, Texas Panel 47E Line 015
Description 11th Marines, 1st Marine Division at Liberty Bridge. On March 19, 1969, a battalion-size enemy force stormed the Marine outpost. Their goal was to first overrun, then annihilate the fledgling base. 11th Marines, 1st Marine Division at Liberty Bridge. On March 19, 1969, a battalion-size enemy force stormed the Marine outpost. Their goal was to first overrun, then annihilate the fledgling base. “Earlier that night, they hit the compound just across the river,” Mitchell explained. “…That woke me up. …While this was going on, they came in from the other way, cut the wire and lay down in this ravine. They were already in the compound. When things quieted back down, they hit. …They hit us shortly after midnight. I was in my hooch. Just as I heard the AK-47s, somebody ran in and hollered, ‘We’re getting hit! They’re inside the wire!’ I grabbed my stuff—ammo, gun and helmet, ran out and there’s just tracers bouncing off everything. …They were all over the place. They had at least three Russian-made flamethrowers in there and had already torched a couple of hooches. They made it to within about a hundred yards of mine.”
Mitchell joined the battle. Jumbled, close-in exchanges ensued, often deteriorating into hand-to-hand combat. “The group I was with went out to the berm and laid down cover fire. We had an M-60 with us. The 105s were shooting beehive rounds—thousands of little steel darts, right into them. Then all the choppers started coming in. We killed 70 some inside the compound alone, not to mention all those outside the wire. I know because the next morning I helped gather them up.”
Twelve Americans were killed that night with dozens more wounded. One loss in particular remains with Mitchell yet today. “When I got up that morning, I could barely walk. I was having these bad back spasms. I went to see our corpsman—a tall, skinny kid from Tennessee we called Doc Ray. …Everybody liked him. …He took me into his hooch, gave me some muscle relaxers and had me lay down on a stretcher. I stayed up there all day, maybe eight hours just talking with him. …At five or six o’clock, I went back down to my hooch, maybe a hundred yards away. About dark that night, he not only came down to check on me, but also brought me three pair of socks. We talked for about 10 more minutes and then he left. That’s the last I ever saw of him. He was killed that night.”
For his heroic actions at Liberty Bridge, above and beyond the call of duty, Corpsman David R. Ray earned the Medal of Honor.... More
Criteria The Purple Heart may be awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving under competent authority in any capacity with one of the Armed Forces, has been wounded, kill... The Purple Heart may be awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving under competent authority in any capacity with one of the Armed Forces, has been wounded, killed, or who has died or may die of wounds received in armed combat or as a result of an act of international terrorism. The criteria were announced in a War Department circular dated February 22, 1932, and authorized award to soldiers, upon their request, who had been awarded the Meritorious Service Citation Certificate, Army Wound Ribbon, or were authorized to wear Wound Chevrons subsequent to April 5, 1917 MoreHide
Criteria The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in th... The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in the Marine Corps) and below who have actively participated in ground or surface combat. (World War II and Korea War service rate one ribbon for each period only) MoreHide
Description
1st Unit to be awarded the CAR ribbon for Khe Sanh - April 1968
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description
1st Marine Division U.S. Marine Corps 16 September 67-31 October 68 Vietnam War
Criteria The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not suff... The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not sufficiently to justify the award of the Presidential Unit Citation). It may also be awarded to a unit that distinguishes itself by extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of military operations), which renders that unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Description Description Pending
1968
Vietnam Service Medal
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments 2. Vietnam Air/Ground Campaign
22 January 1968 7 July 1968
3. Tet Counteroffensive
30 January 1968 1 April 1968
4. Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase IV
2 April 1968 30 June 1968
5. Vietnam Counteroffensive ... 2. Vietnam Air/Ground Campaign
22 January 1968 7 July 1968
3. Tet Counteroffensive
30 January 1968 1 April 1968
4. Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase IV
2 April 1968 30 June 1968
5. Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase V
1 July 1968 1 November 1968
MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments
3. Tet Counteroffensive 30 January 1968 1 April 1968
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments
4. Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase IV 2 April 1968 30 June 1968
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation. MoreHide
Description Unit Award
January 20, 1968
The Unit Citation Emblem of the colors of the Gallantry Cross is awarded to military personnel in the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces and Allied units that have been cited ... Unit Award
January 20, 1968
The Unit Citation Emblem of the colors of the Gallantry Cross is awarded to military personnel in the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces and Allied units that have been cited and presented a decoration which is prescribed to be awarded on a collective basis.
Known as the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm (Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm and Frame Unit Citation), the Unit Citation Emblem in the colors of the Gallantry Cross with Palm, was created on January 20, 1968 and was issued with the Gallantry Cross ribbon bar with a bronze palm and gold frame. The former Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) Armed Forces awarded the Gallantry Cross individually to certain military units that distinguished themselves to the same level as would be required for the individual award.
Regulations for the issuance of the Vietnam Gallantry Cross permit the wearing of both the individual and unit award simultaneously since both are considered separate awards.
The Vietnamese Fourragere in the colors of the Gallantry Cross represented represented a military unit cited two times. It was a brilliant golden-yellow, with red intermixed. Department of the Army message 111030Z from April 1974, established the policy that only one emblem for a unit award was authorized to be worn at a time. This change resulted in the fourragere being no longer authorized for wear, as it was representative of multiple awards.[4] The Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm was awarded to every Allied nation which provided military support to South Vietnam. The unit decoration thus became the most commonly awarded Vietnamese decoration to foreigners,
second only to the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
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Criteria
The unit citation of the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal was awarded certain units by the Vietnamese government for meritorious service during the period 1 March 1961 to 28 March 1974.
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Comments The Vietnam Campaign Medal is a military campaign medal of the former country of South Vietnam (Republic of Vietnam). Established in 1966, it was awarded to members of United States, Australian, and N... The Vietnam Campaign Medal is a military campaign medal of the former country of South Vietnam (Republic of Vietnam). Established in 1966, it was awarded to members of United States, Australian, and New Zealand military forces serving six months or more in support of Republic of Vietnam military operations. The medal was the most commonly bestowed foreign military award to United States Armed Forces personnel prior to the Gulf War.[1]
The Vietnam Campaign Medal may also be awarded to any service member who, while serving outside the geographical limits of the Republic of Vietnam, provided direct combat support to the Republic of Vietnam armed forces for a period exceeding six months. This stipulation most often applies to members who performed Vietnam War support from Thailand and Japan. In such cases, a U.S. service member must have been awarded either the Vietnam Service Medal or the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (for service in a Vietnam campaign) to be eligible for the Vietnam Campaign Medal. For those members who were wounded by an enemy force, captured by the enemy in the line of duty, or killed in action, the Vietnam Campaign Medal is automatically awarded regardless of total time served in Vietnam.[2][3]
1960- device
The medal is issued with a device known as the 1960 Bar. The bar displays the date of 1960 followed by a dash and a blank space. The unusual appearance was caused by the government of the Republic of Vietnam stating that the 1960 bar would show the dates of the Vietnam War from start to finish, with the ending date placed on the 1960 bar after the South Vietnamese had triumphed over North Vietnam (the Democratic Republic of Vietnam). Since South Vietnam fell, and the government ceased to exist, an ending date for the 1960 Bar was never established.
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Description Operation Kentucky was a multi-Battalion operation conducted by the United States Marine Corps in the area south of the DMZ in Quang Tri Province. This was another operation to secure the Con Thien arOperation Kentucky was a multi-Battalion operation conducted by the United States Marine Corps in the area south of the DMZ in Quang Tri Province. This was another operation to secure the Con Thien area from the North Vietnamese Army (NVA). The operation ran from November 1, 1967 until February 28, 1969.
1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, 1st and 2nd Battalions, 26th Marines and 3rd Tank Battalion anti-infiltration operation in the Leatherneck Square between Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cam Lo and Dong Ha.... More
Description The Battle of Khe Sanh was conducted in northwestern Quảng Trị Province, Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam), between 21 January and 9 July 1968 during the Vietnam War. The belligerent parties were elThe Battle of Khe Sanh was conducted in northwestern Quảng Trị Province, Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam), between 21 January and 9 July 1968 during the Vietnam War. The belligerent parties were elements of the United States (U.S.) III Marine Amphibious Force (III MAF), 1st Cavalry Division, the U.S. Seventh Air Force, minor elements of the South Vietnamese Army (ARVN) against two to three division-size elements of the North Vietnamese Army (NVA).
The American command in Saigon initially believed that combat operations around the Khe Sanh Combat Base during the summer of 1967 were just part of a series of minor North Vietnamese offensives in the border regions. That appraisal was altered when it was discovered that NVA was moving major forces into the area during the fall and winter. A build-up of Marine forces took place and actions around Khe Sanh commenced when the Marine base was isolated. During a series of desperate actions that lasted 5 months and 18 days, Khe Sanh Combat Base (KSCB) and the hilltop outposts around it were under constant North Vietnamese ground, artillery, mortar, and rocket attacks.
During the battle, a massive aerial bombardment campaign (Operation Niagara) was launched by the U.S. Air Force to support the Marine base. Over 100,000 tons of bombs (equivalent in destructive force to five Hiroshima-size atomic bombs) were dropped until mid April by aircraft of the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marines onto the surrounding areas of Khe Sanh. This was roughly 1,300 tons of bombs dropped daily–five tons for every one of the 20,000 NVA soldiers initially estimated to have been committed to the fighting at Khe Sanh. In addition, 158,000 large-caliber shells were delivered on the hills surrounding the base. This expenditure of aerial munitions dwarfs the amount of munitions delivered by artillery, which totals eight shells per NVA soldier believed to have been on the battlefield.
This campaign used the latest technological advances in order to locate NVA forces for targeting. The logistical effort to support KSCB, once it was isolated overland, demanded the implementation of other tactical innovations in order to keep the Marines supplied.
In March 1968, an overland relief expedition (Operation Pegasus) was launched by a combined Marine–Army/South Vietnamese task force that eventually broke through to the Marines at Khe Sanh. American commanders considered the defense of Khe Sanh a success, but shortly after the siege was lifted the new American commander in Vietnam, Gen. Creighton Abrams, decided to dismantle the base rather than risk similar battles in the future. Historians have observed that the Battle of Khe Sanh may have successfully distracted American and GVN attention from the buildup of Viet Cong forces in the south prior to the early 1968 Tet Offensive. Even at the height of the Tet Offensive, General Westmoreland maintained that the true intentions of the offensive was to distract forces from Khe Sanh.... More
People You Remember PFC Roach "TEX" RO Tom O Grady RO J J O Donnell RO Lt Bill Smith A 1/13 CPT Ken Pipes "Skipper" Sgt KellyPFC Roach "TEX" RO Tom O Grady RO J J O Donnell RO Lt Bill Smith A 1/13 CPT Ken Pipes "Skipper" Sgt Kelly B 1/13 Pete Peterson RO Rev Ray Stubbe The brave men of Bravo Company... More
Description The Battle of Khe Sanh was conducted in northwestern Quảng Trị Province, Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam), between 21 January and 9 July 1968 during the Vietnam War. The belligerent parties were elThe Battle of Khe Sanh was conducted in northwestern Quảng Trị Province, Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam), between 21 January and 9 July 1968 during the Vietnam War. The belligerent parties were elements of the United States (U.S.) III Marine Amphibious Force (III MAF), 1st Cavalry Division, the U.S. Seventh Air Force, minor elements of the South Vietnamese Army (ARVN) against two to three division-size elements of the North Vietnamese Army (NVA).
The American command in Saigon initially believed that combat operations around the Khe Sanh Combat Base during the summer of 1967 were just part of a series of minor North Vietnamese offensives in the border regions. That appraisal was altered when it was discovered that NVA was moving major forces into the area during the fall and winter. A build-up of Marine forces took place and actions around Khe Sanh commenced when the Marine base was isolated. During a series of desperate actions that lasted 5 months and 18 days, Khe Sanh Combat Base (KSCB) and the hilltop outposts around it were under constant North Vietnamese ground, artillery, mortar, and rocket attacks.
During the battle, a massive aerial bombardment campaign (Operation Niagara) was launched by the U.S. Air Force to support the Marine base. Over 100,000 tons of bombs (equivalent in destructive force to five Hiroshima-size atomic bombs) were dropped until mid April by aircraft of the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marines onto the surrounding areas of Khe Sanh. This was roughly 1,300 tons of bombs dropped daily–five tons for every one of the 20,000 NVA soldiers initially estimated to have been committed to the fighting at Khe Sanh. In addition, 158,000 large-caliber shells were delivered on the hills surrounding the base. This expenditure of aerial munitions dwarfs the amount of munitions delivered by artillery, which totals eight shells per NVA soldier believed to have been on the battlefield.
This campaign used the latest technological advances in order to locate NVA forces for targeting. The logistical effort to support KSCB, once it was isolated overland, demanded the implementation of other tactical innovations in order to keep the Marines supplied.
In March 1968, an overland relief expedition (Operation Pegasus) was launched by a combined Marine–Army/South Vietnamese task force that eventually broke through to the Marines at Khe Sanh. American commanders considered the defense of Khe Sanh a success, but shortly after the siege was lifted the new American commander in Vietnam, Gen. Creighton Abrams, decided to dismantle the base rather than risk similar battles in the future. Historians have observed that the Battle of Khe Sanh may have successfully distracted American and GVN attention from the buildup of Viet Cong forces in the south prior to the early 1968 Tet Offensive. Even at the height of the Tet Offensive, General Westmoreland maintained that the true intentions of the offensive was to distract forces from Khe Sanh.... More
Description May 18 – Oct 23; 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Battalion, 13th Marines, 1st and 3rd Battalions, 26th Marines clear and search operations around the central Quảng Nam ProvMay 18 – Oct 23; 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Battalion, 13th Marines, 1st and 3rd Battalions, 26th Marines clear and search operations around the central Quảng Nam Province.... More
1st Marine Division operation centered on the Khe Sanh area of Quang Tri Province.
On April 15 1968, Operation Pegasus ended and Operation Scotland II began. The Marines at Khe Sanh Combat Base broke out of their perimeter and began attacking the North Vietnamese in the surrounding area. The Army 1st Air Cavalry Division, with over 400 helicopters under its control, conducted airmobile operations deeper into enemy controlled areas. The fighting was heavy. An additional 413 Marines were killed during Scotland II through the end of June 1968. Operation Scotland II lasted until the end of the year, resulting in the deaths of 72 additional Marines. None of the deaths associated with Scotland II are included in the official body count
VC/NVA KIA's: 3,304 KIAs, 64 POWs
US KIA's: 435 KIA, 2,396 WIA... More
Description This campaign was from 2 April to 30 June 1968. During this period friendly forces conducted a number of battalion-size attritional operations against the enemy.
Operations PEGASUS-Lam Son 207 relievThis campaign was from 2 April to 30 June 1968. During this period friendly forces conducted a number of battalion-size attritional operations against the enemy.
Operations PEGASUS-Lam Son 207 relieved the Khe Sanh Combat Base on 5 April and thereby opened Route 9 for the first time since August 1967. This operation not only severely restricted the North Vietnamese Army's use of western Quang Tri Province but also inflicted casualties on the remnants of two North Vietnamese divisions withdrawing from the area. This success was followed by a singular allied spoiling operation in the A Shau Valley, Operation DELAWARE-Lam Son. These two operations prevented the enemy from further attacking I Corps Tactical Zone population centers and forced him to shift his pressure to the III Corps Tactical Zone.
During the period 5-12 May 1968 the Viet Cong launched an offensive with Saigon as the primary objective. Friendly forces defended the city with great determination. Consequently Saigon was never in danger of being overrun. Small Viet Cong units that did manage to get into the outskirts were fragmented and driven out with great loss of enemy life. By the end of June 1968 friendly forces had decisively blunted the enemy's attacks, inflicted very heavy casualties, and hindered his ability to attack urban areas throughout the Republic of Vietnam. The enemy was forced to withdraw to his sanctuaries.
The strength of the U.S. Army in Vietnam reach a peak of nearly 360,000 men during this period.... More
The Viet Cong liked to fortify ambush sites and wait for the Americans to discover them. During Operation Allen Brook, three battalions of Marines swept through No Goi Island and found lots of Viet Cong ready to fight from bunkers near the village of Le Bac. During several days of bloody assaults, the Marines suffered 138 killed and 686 wounded (576 seriously) before the surviving Viet Cong fled. The extreme heat resulted in another 283 Marines evacuated due to heat stroke. Having suffered 50% causalities, Allen Brook was halted until fresh Marine units arrived.... More
The Viet Cong liked to fortify ambush sites and wait for the Americans to discover them. During Operation Allen Brook, three battalions of Marines swept through No Goi Island and found lots of Viet Cong ready to fight from bunkers near the village of Le Bac. During several days of bloody assaults, the Marines suffered 138 killed and 686 wounded (576 seriously) before the surviving Viet Cong fled. The extreme heat resulted in another 283 Marines evacuated due to heat stroke. Having suffered 50% causalities, Allen Brook was halted until fresh Marine units arrived.... More
Description This campaign was from 1 June 1967 to 29 January 1968.The conflict in South Vietnam remains basically unchanged. As Operation JUNCTION CITY ended, elements of the U.S. 1st and 25th Infantry Divisions,This campaign was from 1 June 1967 to 29 January 1968.The conflict in South Vietnam remains basically unchanged. As Operation JUNCTION CITY ended, elements of the U.S. 1st and 25th Infantry Divisions, the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, and the forces of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam swung back toward Saigon to conduct another clearing operation, MANHATTAN. This took peace in the Long Nguyen base area just north of the previously cleared "Iron Triangle."
South Vietnamese Armed Forces became more active and capable under U.S. advisors. During the year the Vietnamese Special Forces assumed responsibility for several Special Forces camps and for the CIDG companies manning them. In each case all of the U.S. advisors withdrew, leaving the Vietnamese in full command.
With an increased delegation of responsibility to them, the South Vietnamese conducted major operations during 1967, and, in spite of VC attempts to avoid battle, achieved a number of contacts.
Despite the success of U.S. and South Vietnamese Army operations, there were indications in the fall of 1967 of another enemy build-up, particularly in areas close to Laos and Cambodia. In late October, the VC struck again at the Special Forces Camp at Loc Ninh. Fortunately Vietnamese reinforcements saved the camp. At the same time, approximately 12,000 VC troops converged on a Special Forces camp at Dak To. This camp was located in northern Kontum Province, where the borders of Laos, Cambodia, and South Vietnam meet. In response to this potential threat, the U.S. and South Vietnam committed a total of sixteen battalions to the region to counter a disturbing enemy resurgence at Kontum and Loc Ninh.... More
Best Friends
William Robb Stall was born in Midland, Texas to Virginia Bell and Trovacc Layfette Stall. He grew up in Midland and attended Midland schools. Everyone knew him by his middle name of Robb. While at Midland High School, he played cornet in the MHS band, he was active in the E. 100 Club, Junior Council, Stage Craft Club; he was the editor of a student publication, "The Candle in the Wind," his junior and senior years. He was also a member of the Latin Honor Society, The Medical Career's Club and was a Rotarian. He was a 1965 graduate of Midland High School. He attended the University of Texas in Austin for a year.
He enlisted in the Marine Corp in February 1967. He completed boot camp at the Marine Corp Recruit Training Depot at San Diego, California. He then completed his ITR at Camp Pendleton, California. He married Florence Ann Yeager August 1, 1967 at the Camp Pendleton Chapel, in California.
He departed for his tour in Vietnam September 22, 1967. He was assigned to K Company, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. He was killed by a booby trap on January 18, 1968 in Quang Tri. He had been in Vietnam three months.
He was buried with full military honors at Resthaven Cemetery in Midland, Texas. He was survived by his wife, Florence Ann Stall, his parents, his brothers, David and Richard and his sisters Susan, Emily Stall Hughes and Kay Stall Kerns. Panel 34E Line 071 KIA
Best Friends
Pvt Timothy J De Chant, Pvt David Cameron, Pvt Robert Lynch Pvt Joe Sanders
Best Moment
The rifle range & Close Order Drill
Graduation 3 April 1967
Worst Moment
Leaving all my new friends behind for the Infantry Training Regiment (ITR) at Camp Pendleton, California
Chain of Command
MG Lowell E English CG MCRD Col Bernard M Boress CO RTR
First Battalion Commander Maj F X Quinn SgtMaj C E White
Series Commander 2nd Lt D L Belanger Series G/Sgt M C Long
Drill Instructor's for Platoon 122 Platoon Commander S/Sgt H B Stafford S/Sgt R C Duke, Sgt S B Spradlin Sgt K D Rains
Other Memories
History of 1st Battalion
In 1921, the MCRDSD was formally commissioned and in 1923, it became the primary recruiting center for the west coast. During World War II, the flow of recruits into the base surged, with 18,000 recruits arriving in one month. In 1948, the base was formally named Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and was home to the Recruit Training Regiment.
First Recruit training Battalion is one of the three Battalions under the Regiment, whose main mission is to train new United States Marine Corps recruits, specifically males recruited from west of the Mississippi River, but also from some areas east of the river, such as Wisconsin, Michigan, the Chicago metropolitan area and New Orleans. Recruit training includes a thirteen week process during which the recruit becomes cut off from the civilian world and must adapt to a Marine Corps lifestyle. During training, drill instructors train recruits in a wide variety of subjects including weapons training, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, personal hygiene and cleanliness, close order drill, and Marine Corps history. The training emphasizes physical fitness, and recruits must attain a minimum standard of fitness to graduate by passing a Physical Fitness Test. Recruits must also meet minimum combat-oriented swimming qualifications, qualify in rifle marksmanship with the M16A4 service rifle, and pass a 54-hour simulated combat exercise known as "The Crucible".
Unlike training at Parris Island, recruits must leave the depot to conduct field training. Three weeks of the recruit?s training is spent at Edson Range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, where recruits fire on the rifle range, conduct field training, and undergo the Crucible. At the conclusion, recruits return to MCRD San Diego for graduation.
MG English was sent to Vietnam in December 1965 and served as Assistant Division Commander, 3rd Marine Division. He commanded American forces at the Khe Sanh Marine base during the siege. English regarded Khe Sanh as "a trap" to force Westmoreland to "expend absolutely unreasonable amounts of men and material to defend a piece of terrain that wasn't worth a damn".[4] English resented the order to defend the area, and the fact that it allowed Westmoreland to place the Marine Corps under U.S. Army command. In 1966, he commanded a task force in the five-day-long "Texas Operation".
English returned to the United States in 1967 and was promoted to Major General on the January 13, becoming the 25th commander of the Marine Training and Replacement Center. He retired from active service in 1969.
Best Friends
William Robb Stall Lance Corporal I BTRY, 3RD BN, 12TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV United States Marine Corps 14 February 1947 - 18 January 1968 Midland, Texas
KIA
Worst Moment
William Robb Stall Lance Corporal I BTRY, 3RD BN, 12TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV United States Marine Corps 14 February 1947 - 18 January 1968 Midland, Texas
KIA
Other Memories
To my Brother Bill Stall, Bill and I were friends and trained together as Artillery Scouts Forward Observers (MOS0846) in spring of 1967. Bill and I were very good friends and spend lots of time together in California before shipping off to Vietnam. Bill went to the 12th Marines and I went to the 13th Marines located at Khe Sanh. It was there I learned the bad news about his death. I still remember his smile and time we spent together. I have finally found my brother Bill again after all these years. Thanks to this site. Attached is photos taken at Camp Pendleton, CA. On top of the training Observation Post with the rest of the our FO Class of 1967. Semper Fi, Ted Golab 0846
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description 3rd Marine Division
U.S. Marine Corps
8 March 65-15 September 67
Vietnam War For extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance of duty in action against the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong for... 3rd Marine Division
U.S. Marine Corps
8 March 65-15 September 67
Vietnam War For extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance of duty in action against the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong forces in the Republic of Vietnam from 8 March 1965 to 15 September 1967. Throughout this period, the Third Marine Division (Reinforced), operating in the five northermost provinces of the Republic of Vietnam, successfully executed its three-fold mission of occupying and defending key terrain, seeking out and destroying the enemy, and conducting an intensive pacification program. Operating in an area bordered by over 200 miles of South China Sea coastline, the mountainous Laotian border and the Demilitarized Zone, the Third Marine Division (Reinforced) successfully executed eighty major combat operations, carrying the battle to the enemy, destroying many of his forces, and capturing thousands of tons of weapons and material. In addition to these major operations, more than 125,000 offensive counterguerrilla actions, ranging from squad patrols and ambushes to company-sizes search and destroy operations, were conducted in both the coastal rice lands and the mountainous jungle inland. These bitterly contested actions routed the enemy from his well-entrenched positions, denied him access to his source of food, restricted his freedom of movement, and removed his influence from the heavily populated areas. In numerous operations, the Third marine Division (Reinforced) demonstrated the great efficacy of combined operations with units of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. In July 1966, the Third marine Division (Reinforced) moved to the north to counter major elements of the North Vietnamese Army moving across the Demilitarized Zone into the Province of Quang Tri; its units fought a series of savage battles against the enemy, repeatedly distinguishing themselves and, time and again, forcing the enemy to retreat across the Demilitarized Zone. Imbued with an unrelenting combat spirit and initiative and undeterred by heavy hostile artillery and mortar fire, extremely difficult terrain, incessant heat and monsoon rains, the Third marine Division (Reinforced), employing courageous ground, heliborne and amphibious assaults, complemented by intense and accurate air, artillery and naval gunfire support, inflicted great losses on the enemy and denied him the political and militart victory he sought to achieve at any cost. The outstanding courage, resourcefulness and aggressive fighting spirit of the officers and men of the Third marine Division (Reinforced) in battle after battle againsta well-equipped and well-trained enemy, often numerically superior in strength, and the great humanitarianism constantly shown to the people of the Republic of Vietnam, reflected great credit upon the Marine Corps and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. MoreHide
Description Operation Kentucky was a multi-Battalion operation conducted by the United States Marine Corps in the area south of the DMZ in Quang Tri Province. This was another operation to secure the Con Thien arOperation Kentucky was a multi-Battalion operation conducted by the United States Marine Corps in the area south of the DMZ in Quang Tri Province. This was another operation to secure the Con Thien area from the North Vietnamese Army (NVA). The operation ran from November 1, 1967 until February 28, 1969.
1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, 1st and 2nd Battalions, 26th Marines and 3rd Tank Battalion anti-infiltration operation in the Leatherneck Square between Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cam Lo and Dong Ha.... More
Description November 28 to 25 December, 1st Battalion 4th Marines jumped off on Operation Newton/Kentucky V where they set up a defensive position north of the fire break between Con Thien and Go Linh and conductNovember 28 to 25 December, 1st Battalion 4th Marines jumped off on Operation Newton/Kentucky V where they set up a defensive position north of the fire break between Con Thien and Go Linh and conducted company size combat patrols and other screening activities.
The main focus of the operation was the establishment of Strong Point A3 between Con Thien and Gio Linh. This was the last fire support base required by Operation Dye Marker. Dye Marker was a long term 3rd Marine Division objective that called for the creation of a barrier system to choke the infiltration of enemy forces across the DMZ. Many referred to this system as "McNamara's Wall."... More
Sgt Wally Urpin
At sea on the LST 1174; USS Grant County
Reunion Name: 3d Bn, 10th Marine Regiment (3/10) Deactivation
Date from: Apr 26, 2013 Date to: Apr 26, 2013
Place: WPT Hill Field
City: Camp Lejeune
State: NC
Person to Contact: John Black
Phone: 910 450-8317
Email: john.r.black@usmc.mil
Web Page:
Comments: 3/10's deactivation will be held 26th April @1300 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC at the WPT Hill field for any questions or concern please feel free to contact me. ALT PHONE: 9104508315 (1stlt Nilan)