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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” to Sergeant Ronald A. Way (ASN: RA-19583764), United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force. Sergeant Way distinguished himself by heroic actions on 20 February 1966 in the Republic of Vietnam. On this day Sergeant Way was point man, leading the way to make contact with the recon platoon. After making contact with the recon platoon he then came along the front to guide the rest of the second platoon into position. Upon returning to the point where the second platoon tied in with the recon platoon, Sergeant Way saw a wounded man in the open in front of friendly lines. Without concern for his own safety and at a great risk to his life, Sergeant Way ran to the wounded man and dragged him to safety under the intense crossfire of the opposing forces. This outstanding display of aggressiveness, devotion to duty, and personal bravery is 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 Battalion

    Regiment:

    12th Cavalry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division

    Action Date:

    August 10, 1966
    Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), General Orders No. 3273 (September 19, 1966)

    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 Ronald A. Way (ASN: RA-19583764), United States Army, for gallantry in action. On 10 August 1966, Sergeant Way distinguished himself by exceptional heroism in action while serving as a Squad Leader of Company C, 2d Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, which was occupying a defensive perimeter in the Bong Son area, Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Way and his squad occupied a listening post to the front of the company perimeter. Upon detecting movement to his front under cover of darkness, Sergeant Way immediately requested supporting artillery fire, and continued to adjust the fire closer to his position. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Way finally called in artillery fire on his own position when it appeared that his position would become overrun. The devastating artillery barrage disorganized the enemy attack, and enabled Sergeant Way and his squad to crawl to safety. After returning to the company perimeter, Sergeant Way continued to adjust artillery fire to his front until dawn. Sergeant Way’s dauntless valor allowed his company to halt an estimated Viet Cong company’s penetration of the perimeter. Sergeant May’s courageous action under fire is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.