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 pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Sergeant Theodore N. Tees, United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 August 1969. Sergeant Tees distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader in Company B, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), during combat operations near the A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam. As Company B began to ascend the slope of a ridge north of Dong Ap Bia Mountain, the lead element came under intense enemy small arms, rocket propelled grenade, and automatic weapons fire from an unknown size enemy force situated in well-constructed bunkers. In the initial encounter, the lead man was critically wounded and subjected to further enemy fire. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Sergeant Tees quickly began to maneuver his way toward the wounded soldier. As he approached the wounded man’s position, the enemy force began directing a heavy volume of fire toward him. Sergeant Tees immediately began leveling a heavy base of suppressive fire, killing one of the insurgents. He then placed the wounded man on his shoulders and began carrying him to safety in spite of constant enemy automatic weapons fire. Due to his courageous efforts, the life of one comrade was saved and friendly casualties kept to a minimum. Sergeant Tees’ personal bravery 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion (Airmobile)

    Regiment:

    506th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    101st Airborne Division (Airmobile)

    Action Date:

    August 24, 1969

    Headquarters, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), General Orders No. 12937 (October 12, 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 Silver Star to Sergeant Theodore N. Tees, United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 August 1969. Sergeant Tees distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader in Company B, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), during combat operations in the A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam. At approximately 0340 hours on the cited date, an enemy sapper force attacked the 3d Brigade command post located at Fire Support Base BERCHTESGADEN, Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Tees immediately moved his squad’s ninety millimeter recoilless rifle into an advantageous position to counter the enemy small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire. After suppressing the enemy fire, he moved through the battle area collecting and redistributing ammunition and grenades. Courageously subjecting himself to the intense hostile fire, he fired M-79 illumination rounds to enable his squad to place effective fire on the insurgents. His quick thinking and sound judgment minimized friendly casualties and resulted in the rout of the enemy force. Sergeant Tees’ personal bravery 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.