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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Armor) John Clark Speedy, III, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Speedy distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 22 June 1970 while serving as Troop Commander with Troop K, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, the First Platoon of Troop K was suddenly engaged by an enemy force of unknown size utilizing recoilless rifles, rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire. As Captain Speedy approached the contact area, his vehicle received three hits, wounding two men. Despite the intense fire, he immediately administered aid to them. Although the jungle greatly restricted his ability to maneuver his vehicle, he bravely engaged the enemy at point blank range. Unable to get air support, he regrouped his men and again charged into the withering fire and completely routed the enemy force. Captain Speedy then directed friendly artillery on the retreating enemy, which further contributed to their shattering defeat. Captain Speedy’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

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 Captain (Armor) John Clark Speedy, III (ASN: OF-101727), United States Army, for gallantry In action in the Republic of Vietnam, on 7 March 1968. Captain Speedy distinguished himself on 7 March 1968, while Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 1st Brigade, 101st Air Cavalry Division, was conducting combat operations near Zp Xuan Tay, Republic of Vietnam. Company C came in contact with an elite North Vietnamese Army battalion and remained in heavy contact from 0930 hours to 17309 hours. The North Vietnamese Army battalion was occupying prepared defensive positions along hedgerows in the village. Captain Speedy continuously exposed himself to intense heavy automatic weapons fire as he moved from element to element to gain first hand knowledge of the situation. Captain Speedy continued to expose himself to deadly rocket fire as he maneuvered his elements against the well-entrenched enemy. At about 1300 hours, Company C was receiving fire from all directions, and Captain Speedy again exposed himself to intense automatic weapons and small arms fire while personally directing the disengagement of his elements so artillery could be placed on the enemy. Captain Speedy remained with the last element in contact and successfully directed gunships and artillery upon the enemy positions which caused heavy casualties. Captain Speedy’s capability to think under extremely adverse circumstances saved the lives of many men that could have been casualties. Captain Speedy’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against a numerically superior Viet Cong force were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.