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 the Silver Star to Sergeant Thurman L. McDonald (ASN: RA-14908639), United States Army, for gallantry in action: Sergeant McDonald distinguished himself by extraordinary valor while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 19 November 1967, while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry. During the battle of Dak To, Sergeant McDonald, acting as squad leader, directed his squad in an assault against a numerically superior North Vietnamese armed force to go to the aid of his company. During this time Sergeant McDonald repeatedly exposed himself to intense enemy automatic weapons and mortar fire, to move around encouraging his men and directing their fire. After linkup with the company had been accomplished, Sergeant McDonald secured the company’s evacuation of the wounded. He personally remained behind to carry the wounded to safety despite the withering fire through which he had to move. For the next three days Sergeant McDonald was the acting platoon leader. He was personally responsible for the maintenance and combat efficiency of his platoon. Despite the constant fighting Sergeant McDonald performed in an outstanding manner, inspiring the troops with his leadership and courage until he was hit by mortar fire and seriously wounded. Sergeant McDonald’s leadership, initiative and personal valor were in the highest degree of professionalism and competence and contributed substantially to the unit’s success. His inspirational leadership and courage 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