Americal Division-198th LIB

Richard “Wayne” Roberts
23^rd Infantry “Americal” Division
198^th Light Infantry Brigade
1/52^nd Infantry Regiment
Company A

Wayne Roberts finally received a Bronze Star Medal that was never submitted for his tour in Vietnam as well the Bronze Star with Valor Device for his actions during an enemy mortar attack.

The citations read: (Bronze Star)

For meritorious service from 19 July 1969 to 31 January 1970, while serving as a crewmember, A Company, 1^st Battalion, 52d Infantry Regiment, 198^th Infantry Brigade, in Vietnam. Specialist Four Roberts performed a myriad of duties in a hostile environment in an efficient and effective manner. He assumed a leadership role with the platoon and was able to calmly, quietly and effectively direct other crewmembers, even during actions against the enemy. Specialist Four Roberts demonstrated leadership qualities by acting as a role model for new soldiers entering the platoon, and assisting in their training and orientation. Specialist Four Roberts’ actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division and the United States Army”

Bronze Star with Valor device:

For valorous achievement on 1 February 1970, while serving with Company A, 52d Infantry Regiment 23d Infantry Division (Americal), in support of operations in the Republic of Vietnam.  Specialist Fourth Class Roberts’ unit was under intense enemy fire when he, with disregard for his own safety, left his bunker and maneuvered to his mortar emplacement. Ignoring the enemy fire, he engaged the hostile force with mortar fire and fired illumination rounds to guard against a sapper attack. After the illumination rounds were depleted he carried ammunition from other positions until he was severely wounded.  His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 52d Infantry Regiment and the United States Army.”

Wayne’s other decorations and awards include the:

Combat Infantry Badge
Purple Heart w/1 OLC
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal w/2 campaign stars
Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
Marksmanship (rifle m-14)
Expert (rifle m-16)
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit citation w/palm

Shelby, North Carolina (2010/2011)