Veitnam era Medal ID please

[luvchikn]

MY father-in-law was killed in 1967 in Vietnam. While going through some papers his packet floated to the surface. I recognized the Bronzes Stars, Purple Heart and was able to ID a Gallantry Medal from The Republic of Vietnam. But there is one I cannot find.

The ribbon is narrow white, wide green, very wide yellow with individual green threads then wide green and a final white stripe. The medallion is round and it hangs below crossed swards and a palm frond.

Any help in identifying this medal would be greatly appreciated.

[CAPSmith]

Originally Posted by luvchikn

MY father-in-law was killed in 1967 in Vietnam. While going through some papers his packet floated to the surface. I recognized the Bronzes Stars, Purple Heart and was able to ID a Gallantry Medal from The Republic of Vietnam. But there is one I cannot find.

The ribbon is narrow white, wide green, very wide yellow with individual green threads then wide green and a final white stripe. The medallion is round and it hangs below crossed swards and a palm frond.

Any help in identifying this medal would be greatly appreciated.

luvchikn,

Could you provide some more information regarding this medal? Some things in particular:

1) What service was your father-in-law in?
2) Is the medal mounted with others? If so, what is it next to?
3) Can you provide a picture?
4) Was he in the National Guard? If so, what state?
5) Is your description of the colors starting at the middle working out or from the left side?
6) Does the medallion have any inscriptions or words?

The more we know about the individual's service and the physical object, the better the chances of recognition.

EDIT: Based on your description, does it look something like the attached?

[PhilK]

Here you go.

http://www.saintjohn.nbcc.nb.ca/host...age1/index.htm




Phil

[luvchikn]

PhilK has the picture correct. I have the year incorrect. The year was 1966. He was in the Army, Company B, 4th Battalion, 25th Infantry Division. That is all I know at the moment.

As my wife shares these very personal items, I am trying to learn as I go. There are lots of commendations, official letters and even a local paper article. Both her parents are now passed, so her mom is not available for questions.

Is it possible to go online and find an after-action report? Can I reference his name in a data base and learn more? I know that the Bronze star is a huge commendation. It is my wish to find a way to honor him in our home and in our daily lives. We have a rubbing from the Wall on ceramic. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you all for the service you have done our country.

[PhilK]

Start by finding a site about the 25th ID during Vietnam, dig there to see if there is any mention of his unit.

Once you start digging, you might find something about his unit. You may or may not find anything about your Grandfather specifically, but you can at least learn about his unit's missions.

[HairyEyeball]

Do a search for the Republic of Vietnam Military Merit Medal. I'm not certain of the criteria for which it was awarded or if, as so many of their decorations did, there were 'classes', but I am fairly certain that's what it is.

[Murray B]

Originally Posted by HairyEyeball

Do a search for the Republic of Vietnam Military Merit Medal. I'm not certain of the criteria for which it was awarded or if, as so many of their decorations did, there were 'classes', but I am fairly certain that's what it is.

All I found is "Republic Of Vietnam GRATEFUL TO COUNTRY Merit Badge" from a site in Poland.