Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Charles A. Bryant, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving an armed hostile force while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Bryant distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 7 December 1970. While on patrol, Staff Sergeant Bryant discovered an enemy structure containing several individuals. Taking immediate action, Staff Sergeant Bryant positioned his men around the hootch covering all escape routes. In an effort to capture the individuals alive, he then began to crawl toward the enemy structure. However, his movements were detected and a fire fight broke out between the hostiles and the squad. Staff Sergeant Bryant observed that part of his squad was pinned down. Then, without regard for his own safety, Staff Sergeant Bryant assaulted the enemy position with a volley of hand grenades. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    8th Cavalry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)

    Action Date:

    June 1970 – March 1971

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Bronze Star Medal to Staff Sergeant Charles A. Bryant, United States Army, for outstandingly meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. During the period June 1970 to March 1971 he consistently manifested exemplary professionalism and initiative in obtaining outstanding results. His rapid assessment and solution of numerous problems inherent in a combat environment greatly enhanced the allied effectiveness against a determined and aggressive enemy. Despite many adversities, he invariably performed his duties in a resolute and efficient manner. Energetically applying his sound judgment and extensive knowledge, he has contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the United States mission in the Republic of Vietnam. His loyalty, diligence and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    8th Cavalry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)

    Action Date:

    December 1, 1970 – February 1, 1971

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal to Staff Sergeant Charles A. Bryant, United States Army, for meritorious achievement in ground operations against hostile forces during the period 1 December 1970 to 1 February 1971 in the Republic of Vietnam.

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    8th Cavalry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)

    Action Date:

    January 5, 1971

    Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), General Orders No. 3387 (February 22, 1971)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Staff Sergeant Charles A. Bryant, United States Army, for heroism not involving participation in aerial flight in connection with military operations against a hostile enemy force in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Bryant distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 5 January 1971, when his unit became engaged with a determined enemy force. With complete disregard for his own safety, he exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he moved forward to the point of heaviest contact and began placing a heavy volume of suppressive fire upon the insurgent forces. His actions were an inspiration to the other members of his unit and were instrumental in the successful completion of the mission. His display of personal bravery and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.