Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion (Mechanized)

    Regiment:

    2d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    June 6, 1969

    Headquarters, 1st Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5792 (June 23, 1969)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Larry Hulon Barbee (ASN: 0-5344685), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Company B, 2d Battalion (Mechanized), 2d Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, In action on 6 June 1969 in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Lieutenant Barbee was serving as a platoon leader with his mechanized company on a battalion-minus reconnaissance in force operation west of An Loc. While proceeding through a treacherous region, the friendly element became engaged with a large North Vietnamese Bunker complex. Ignoring the enemy small arms, automatic weapons, and rocket-propelled grenade fusillade, Lieutenant Barbee dismounted from his armored vehicle as he coordinated his tracks’ movement on line and directed his men’s suppressive fire on the insurgents. He continually maneuvered throughout the area adjusting heavy machinegun barrages on fortifications and destroying them. When he observed a casualty atop an armored personnel carrier, Lieutenant Barbee disregarded his personal safety as he braved a hail of hostile rounds and mounted the track. While attempting to evacuate the injured man, Lieutenant Barbee was mortally wounded. His selfless courage, professional leadership, and intrepid determination significantly contributed to the overwhelming defeat of the aggressors. First Lieutenant Barbee’s unquestionable valor in close combat against numerically superior hostile forces is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.