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Navy Federal Credit Union

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” (posthumously) to Sergeant Mike John Aguilar, United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Mike John Aguilar distinguished himself by valorous action on 19 May 1971. When his unit became engaged with a determined enemy force, he exposed himself, with complete disregard for his own safety, to intense hostile fire as he moved forward to the point of heaviest contact and placed a heavy volume of suppressive fire on the insurgent forces. His courageous 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 are 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

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    2d Squadron

    Regiment:

    11th Armored Cavalry Regiment

    Action Date:

    April 17, 1971
    Headquarters, United States Army Vietnam, General Orders No. 2264-97 (June 29, 1971)

    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 Mike John Aguilar, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Aguilar distinguished himself while serving as a Machine Gunner aboard an armored vehicle, Troop F, 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, during a reconnaissance mission north of Trang Bang. As his platoon advanced, they encountered a large hostile force firing rocket propelled grenades and automatic weapons from well fortified positions. Immediately, Sergeant Aguilar began placing a heavy volume of fire upon the foe. Dismounting his track, he assaulted an enemy bunker, destroying the enemy inside with a hand grenade. Then, Sergeant Aguilar engaged an enemy soldier with his M-16 rifle at close range, eliminating the foe. Exposing himself to a hail of enemy bullets, he charged another bunker, successfully destroying its defenders. Sergeant Aguilar’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.