Sexton M. Vann Jr.
23d Infantry Division (Americal)
1st Battalion
46th Infantry
196th Light Infantry Brigade
Sexton Vann served in Vietnam and was seriously wounded after participating in 2 head-on assaults finally receives the Army Commendation Medal w/Valor device for his actions and the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam.
The ARCOM w/V citation reads:
“For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Vann distinguished himself by valorous actions on & December 1970 while serving as a Rifleman with Company D, 1st Battalion, 46th Infantry. On that date, an element of the company was conducting a combat patrol in the Tien Phuoc District when a hostile force was spotted in a small hamlet. Coming under enemy fire, Private Vann unhesitatingly braved the hostile barrage in order to effectively engage the insurgents. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy fusillade in order to maneuver to a strategic position where he provided highly effective cover fire for the remainder of his element as it closed to the insurgents. Through his timely actions, Private Vann contributed significantly to the success of the operation and minimized friendly casualties. His personal heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division and the United States Army.”
The Bronze Star Medal citation reads:
“For meritorious service from 17 March 1970 to 7 December 1970, while serving as a member of Company D, 1st Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment, 196th Light Infantry Brigade, Americal Division, in the Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Vann’s tactical abilities and techniques during combat patrols prevented many potential casualties. While under extremely hazardous conditions, Specialist Four Vann was the first in his unit to encounter enemy traps which led to many successful mission outcomes. Specialist Four Vann’s professionalism and commitment to duty resulted in the unprecedented successes of patrols in the Quang Tin Province. Specialist Four Vann’s distinctive accomplishments reflect great credit upon himself, 196th Light Infantry Brigade and the United States Army.”
His awards and decorations include the:
CIB
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal w/Valor
National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal w/1 campaign star
Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm
Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal – First Class
Expert Marksmanship Badge – Machine Gun
Sharpshooter Badge – M-16 Rifle
Dunn, N. Carolina (2012)
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