Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    Foreign

    Rank:

    Major General

    Division:

    Fourth Corps Tactical Zone

    Action Date:

    February 24, 1969

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 50 (September 8, 1970)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major General Nguyen Viet Thanh, Army of the Republic of Vietnam, for exceptional gallantry in action on 24 February 1969, near Tan-Chau, while serving as Commanding General, Fourth Corps Tactical Zone, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. On that date A Troop, 1st Squadron, 12th Cavalry and the 226th Regional Force Company were in heavy contact with the Muoi Tri Battalion. The Viet Cong had just initiated a strong and vicious assault supported by rocket, mortar and automatic small arms fire against the right flank of the armored cavalry troop. General Thanh reacted immediately by setting up a base of fire and then directing the left flank to attack and restore the front line position. The enemy renewed his assault and again drove the friendly forces back. With complete disregard for his own safety, General Thanh moved through the area rallying and inspiring the friendly forces, then using one armored personnel carrier he proceeded to the 226th Regional Force Company where he rallied the soldiers to resume the attack. General Thanh from atop the command vehicle personally directed a vigorous assault against the enemy. The enemy suffered numerous casualties, was driven back and the lost terrain was regained. His presence on the battlefield, at the most decisive point of contact, was directly responsible for completely restoring the aggressiveness of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam forces. General Thanh’s conspicuous gallantry in action reflects great credit upon himself and the Army of the Republic of Vietnam.