The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Donald R. Evans (ASN: RA-18867804), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop B, 3d Squadron 4th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division. Private First Class Evans distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 28 February 1969 during a reconnaissance-in-force mission in the Boi Loi Woods. Private Evans’ troop came under intense recoilless rifle and rocket-propelled grenade fire from an enemy force in well-concealed, fortified bunkers. As they advanced on the hostile emplacements, they were caught in a cross fire which threatened to stop their progress and divide them in half. Disregarding his safety, Private Evans sprang to his feet and assaulted a bunker, firing his rifle and hurling grenades which destroyed the fortification and killed its five occupants. The troop moved forward until it received heavy fire from another bunker. Private Evans again ran toward the bunker, firing his weapon and silencing the position with hand grenades. While his unit continued its penetration of the stronghold, he checked numerous enemy spider holes, and then voluntarily remained behind to provide covering fire with a machine gun when the troop withdrew to permit the use of artillery. Private First Class Evans’ extraordinary heroism 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.



