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 Staff Sergeant Doward Leroy Jones, Jr. (ASN: RA-14840478), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Jones distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 25 March 1968, while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company D, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat mission in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large enemy force, Sergeant Jones sustained a serous wound, but refused medical evacuation and continued to expose himself to the hostile fire as he assisted in moving his wounded comrades to safety. Late in the day, while leading an assault, Sergeant Jones was mortally wounded. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion (Airborne)

    Regiment:

    8th Cavalry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)

    Action Date:

    July 11, 1967

    Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), General Orders No. 5736 (September 22, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Staff Sergeant Doward Leroy Jones, Jr. (ASN: RA-14840478), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy. Staff Sergeant Jones distinguished himself by heroism on 11 July 1967, while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), near Bong Son, Republic of Vietnam. ON this date, Sergeant Jones was informed that a soldier was attempting to commit suicide with a hand grenade. Trying to convince the man not to carry out his plan, Sergeant Jones realized that more forceful measures were needed. While another man took hold of the soldier, Sergeant Jones, disregarding his own safety, seized the grenade and disposed of it before it exploded. Sergeant Jones’ display of personal bravery and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.