Donald Tobolski graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1962. He retired as a U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander.
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Donald Tobolski graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1962. He retired as a U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Donald Michael Tobolski, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving in the Republic of Vietnam. On 1 January 1969, while leading a column of nine river assault craft down the Can Gao Canal in Kien Giang Province, Lieutenant Tobolski’s units came under heavy rocket, automatic weapons, and small arms fire from enemy forces hidden in the dense foliage of the tree line along both banks of the canal only 50 meters away. Embarked on the lead monitor, Lieutenant Tobolski’s boat was hit by six rockets, one of which detonated on the bar armor directly in front of the coxswain’s flat. The force of explosion knocked the boat captain and coxswain to the deck unconscious. Lieutenant Tobolski was also blown to the deck, but remained conscious, regained his composure, and reached for the helm to take control of the aimlessly guided boat. Bleeding profusely and suffering intense pain from facial wounds, Lieutenant Tobolski skillfully maneuvered the boat clear of the area of attack, while simultaneously directing counter fire onto the enemy positions. Despite his painful wounds and blurred vision, Lieutenant Tobolski continued to exercise command and direction of all units until the river assault craft reached a secure area. Forty-eight casualties were sustained during the first five minutes of the encounter, and Lieutenant Tobolski swiftly coordinated their medical evacuation while forwarding essential information to higher authority. Lieutenant Tobolski’s extreme skill, trained professionalism, exemplary courage and leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.