Navy Federal Credit Union

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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Armor) Donald Homer Dwiggins, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action. Captain Dwiggins distinguished himself by heroic actions on 7 November 1969, while serving as Commanding Officer of Company A, 2d Battalion, 34th Armor, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. Company A was on a combat operation in support of two infantry units, when one of its tanks was disabled by a mine, blocking further movement down the strategic road. Realizing the threat of the disabled vehicle to the security of the armored column and the infantry units, Captain Dwiggins immediately cleared the road of all personnel and set about rigging the downed vehicle for recovery. As the vehicle was being towed from the road, it set off another explosive device, severely wounding Captain Dwiggins. Despite the seriousness of his wounds, Captain Dwiggins refused medical attention until the road had been cleared and his unit was able to continue on in support of the infantry element. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Captain Dwiggins’ bravery and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Armor)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    34th Armor

    Division:

    25th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 18, 1969

    Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 13998 (November 10, 1969)

    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 Soldier’s Medal to Captain (Armor) Donald Homer Dwiggins, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy. Captain Dwiggins distinguished himself by heroic actions on 18 October 1969, while serving as the Battalion S-5 Officer with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 34th Armor, 25th Infantry Division in the Republic of Vietnam. Through a Volunteer Information Program elements of the 34th Armor had collected a large stockpile of ammunition and stacked it at Fire Support Base BUELL. On the above date some Vietnamese children brought an armed white phosphorous round into the base and placed it on the stack of ordnance. Immediately the round detonated and started to burn. Sensing the danger, Captain Dwiggins rushed to the scene and secured the flaming white phosphorous round. After carrying the round for 25 meters, Captain Dwiggins buried the round in mud and water, extinguishing it. His valorous actions were responsible for preventing injury to many soldiers in the area. Captain Dwiggins’ bravery and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.