Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Action Date:

    May 14, 1964

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 40 (December 11, 1964)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Donald F. Van Eynde, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in Vietnam on 14 May 1964, as a Unit Advisor to a Ranger Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Van Eynde was accompanying elements of the unit on a mission to relieve a besieged hamlet when this relief force was suddenly ambushed by hostile forces and subjected to heavy mortar and automatic weapons fire. During the ensuing engagement, Captain Van Eynde displayed determination, professional skill, and fortitude while continuously exposing himself to the intense gun fire to estimate the situation, to recommend appropriate action to his counterpart, and to assist in moving the troops to a defilade position. When his Assistant Unit Advisor was wounded, Captain Van Eynde carried and assisted him across two barriers and through an area of heavy automatic weapons fire to a small group of rangers who were making a withdrawal. Then when his fellow officer was unable to maintain the pace of the withdrawing rangers, Captain Van Eynde again displayed complete disregard for his own safety, remained with his assistant, defended their position by returning the hostile gun fire, evaded the enemy, and assisted the wounded officer through eight kilometers of jungle to safety. His brave actions, perseverance, and personal example were an inspiration to the Vietnamese forces and served to prevent the capture of his assistant and the annihilation of the unit. Captain Van Eynde’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.