Specialist Four Armando Nieto, 1st Battalion, 2d Infantry, was serving as a machine gunner on a patrol in a Viet Cong infested jungle of War Zone C. His unit was moving near the Cambodian border when they were subjected to intensive enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, SP4 Nieto carried his machine gun to the front of the patrol. Ignoring relentless Viet Cong fire, he remained in the open and placed devastating fire onto the insurgents. Because of his suppressive fire, his comrades were able to reach advantageous firing positions. After a fierce fire fight, the friendly unit gained fire superiority and routed the enemy force. His bold initiative and dauntless courage significantly contributed to the overwhelming defeat of the Viet Cong. SP4 Nieto has been awarded the Bronze Star Metal with "V" device for valor."

"American Traveller", Vol. 28, No 38 (September 30, 1967).
 

Casey, Richard S. SP4

 Specialist Four Richard S. Casey, 1st Battalion, 2d Infantry, was serving as a squad leader. His battalion was participating in a search-and-destroy operation in a densely jungle area of War Zone C. Early in the morning, the reconnaissance platoon was sent out to clear the area around the night defensive perimeter. When they had moved 800 meters, they suddenly received heavy automatic weapons and small arms fire from a numerically superior Viet Cong force. Upon hearing the shots, SP4 Casey immediately began leading his squad towards the embattled platoon. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved directly into the kill zone and began to aid casualties and to evacuate them. When he had moved the wounded from the kill zone, he carried the most seriously wounded man through intensive hostile fire to a helicopter evacuation point. He then took a machinegun and braved the heavy insurgent fire to move to a forward position where he could place devastating fire on the Viet Cong. He remained at his forward position and continued firing until all the casualties had been evacuated and the friendly forces had withdrawn. His courage and determination under fire undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades. SP4 Casey has been awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action."

Return to the 1st Battalion, Second Infantry Home Page