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 First Class William Glen Ferguson (ASN: RA-23043779), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Detachment A-304, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant First Class Ferguson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 18 July 1967 while serving as platoon leader of a Special Forces guerrilla task force near the Suoi-Chuon River. Shortly after noon, Sergeant Ferguson’s platoon was attacked by an estimated two battalions of Viet Cong firing automatic weapons. Braving the ravaging fire, he moved among the men directing their fire. As the enemy advanced to within ten meters, he exposed himself time after time without thought of danger to hurl grenades. In one instance Sergeant Ferguson moved into the bullet-swept opening between the enemy and his own men to position two claymore mines. This brave action saved many American lives and inflicted heavy casualties on the insurgents. During the five and one half hour battle, he continually treated friendly casualties and moved them to safety while inspiring his men to defend against the numerous hostile human wave attacks. Sergeant First Class Ferguson’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant First Class

    Regiment:

    5th Special Forces Group (Airborne)

    Division:

    1st Special Forces

    Action Date:

    August 13, 1967

    Headquarters, U.S. Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4466 (September 1, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class William Glen Ferguson (ASN: RA-23043779), 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 Company A, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Sergeant First Class Ferguson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 13 August 1967 while serving as platoon leader of a Mobile Guerilla Task Force on a combat mission deep in hostile territory. When another company of the same unit came under attack from a numerically superior Viet Cong force, Sergeant Ferguson immediately volunteered to lead his men to their aid. Upon reaching the scene of the battle, he moved freely among his men directing their assault although exposed to withering automatic weapons fire. An enemy grenade seriously wounded him as he attacked a hostile position, but he refused medical aid and continued to press the offensive. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Ferguson directed deadly fire on the insurgents and hurled numerous grenades into their positions. He moved openly through the bullet-swept area time after time to inspire his men to greater efforts. He was mortally wounded while leading his men with dauntless courage in the face of grave danger. Sergeant First Class Ferguson’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.