2018 // DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS

SGT Ronald K. Westfall – USA

For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam:  Specialist Four Westfall distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 November 1966 while serving as a rifleman on a combat reconnaissance patrol. When the company to his left made contact with an entrenched Viet Cong force, Specialist Westfall’s platoon quickly advanced to provide flanking fire. As the unit maneuvered forward, it received intense automatic weapons and sniper fire and was pinned down. In the initial moments of the engagement, Specialist Westfall was wounded, but dauntlessly continued to fire his weapon until his ammunition was expended. Exposing himself to the intense hostile fire, he moved around the platoon redistributing weapons and ammunition among the uninjured personnel. With complete disregard for his safety, Specialist Westfall then crawled outside the perimeter to assist several of his wounded comrades who were exposed to the Viet Cong fire. On three separate occasions, he deliberately risked his life to pull a wounded man inside the platoon area. Crawling forward a fourth time, he noticed a hostile casualty, captured him, and dragged the insurgent back into the perimeter. When a relief force finally reached the beleaguered unit, Specialist Westfall carried several wounded men to an evacuation area. Only after his platoon had withdrawn to the landing zone did he allow himself to be treated for his wound. His unremitting courage while receiving intense hostile fire saved three lives and inspired his fellow soldiers. Specialist Westfall’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.