Navy Federal Credit Union

John O’Neill was interned as a Prisoner of War in Southeast Asia after he was captured in South Vietnam on August 13, 1966 and was held until his death in captivity on or about September 30, 1966. He and fellow prisoner David Devers were reportedly dragged from village to village in a public display by the Viet Cong and then executed forty days after their capture. His remains were recovered and returned on January 9, 1970.

Awards Received

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Master Sergeant

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (South Vietnam)

    Action Date:

    August 13, 1966 – September 30, 1966

    Master Sergeant John Joseph O’Neill, Jr., United States Army, was held as a Prisoner of War in South Vietnam from August 13, 1966 until his death in captivity on or about September 30, 1966. [Note: There is no evidence the POW Medal was actually authorized or awarded, despite his obvious captivity, nor is he listed by D.P.M.O. with other Vietnam War personnel.]

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Master Sergeant

    Division:

    Military Assistance Command, Vietnam

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Master Sergeant John Joseph O’Neill, Jr., United States Army, for heroic achievement in action against an armed enemy of the United States while serving as an Advisor with Advisory Team 3, Headquarters, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, in action in South Vietnam in 1966. Master Sergeant O’Neill’s 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.

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Master Sergeant

    Action Date:

    Vietnam War

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Master Sergeant John Joseph O’Neill, Jr., United States Army, for outstandingly meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Master Sergeant O’Neill 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.