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 Corporal Willie Alfred Wright (ASN: RA-55722104), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Corporal Wright distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 November 1967, while serving as a member of Company C, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). Corporal Wright was serving as point squad leader of Company C while on a search and destroy mission. Company C had been given the mission of securing a hilltop at coordinates YB830184. Company D was receiving heavy automatic weapons fire from that area. When Corporal Wright’s squad reached the crest of the hill, they were taken under fire from an estimated North Vietnamese Army platoon, well dug in and armed with AK-47’s and AK-50’s. Corporal Wright calmly deployed his men to bring fire superiority over the enemy. He then unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his personal safety moved to pull back some of his wounded men. After pulling one man back, he returned again to get another man while still under fire. At this time he was killed. Corporal Wright’s cool professional courage and actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

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