Arlington, Virginia, US
United States Army
SP4, HHC, 1ST BN, 503RD INF RGT, 173 ABN BDE
Bien Hoa, South Vietnam, 02/08/1967
Awarded: Distinguished Service Cross Date action: 8 February 1967 Theater: Republic of Vietnam
Reason: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: Specialist Four Campbell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 8 February 1967 while serving with elements of the 503d Infantry assaulting a Viet Cong bunker complex. During the initial engagement, the lead company had suffered numerous casualties, including the medical personnel. Specialist Campbell volunteered to assist in treating the wounded, and dauntlessly moved up to the front line. Exposing himself to the intense hostile fire, he began to administer aid to the wounded soldiers. Discovering that one casualty lay fifty meters in front of the friendly lines and next to an insurgent bunker, Specialist Campbell called for covering fire as he maneuvered forward. Disregarding the extreme dangers, he fearlessly ran through a hail of bullets and exploding grenades, but was forced to take cover behind a low mound of dirt. From this position, he killed a Viet Cong sniper who was firing on him from a tree. Undeterred from his mission, Specialist Campbell then crawled the last twenty meters to the stricken man. Dragging the soldier to the cover of a nearby tree, he started to administer first aid. As he fearlessly protected the man from further hostile fire, Specialist Campbell was mortally wounded. His unimpeachable valor and selfless sacrifice against insurmountable odds succeeded in saving a fellow soldier’s life. Specialist Four Campbell’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.
Authority: By direction of the President under the provisions of the Act of Congress, approved 9 July 1918.
My dear brother Keith,
The dreams we shared as a family were changed forever on that fateful day, but as the years progressed and grief lifted its ugly veil, I found continued healing. A belief that you are watching every step and the Doc’s healing continues. It has not been easy along this journey and even often downright painful, but just as Mother taught us, if you believe in something give it your all and always remember to do good for others. For what really counts is a man’s heart and the ability to have freedom to express that heart. Your life and that of your brothers’ is not in vain. We are a blessed Nation because of you. We will keep up the good fight and dream this dream for all of mankind. You will always be missed, but you will never be forgotten. I love and miss you deeply.
Your Baby Sis, Judy Campbell
Comments