Roger Donlon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Roger H.C. Donlon
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| Born | January 30, 1934 Saugerties, New York, U.S. |
| Died | January 25, 2024 (aged 89) |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Air Force (1953–55) United States Army (1958–88) |
| Years of service | 1953–1955 1958–1988 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | 7th Special Forces Group |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War
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| Awards | Medal of Honor Legion of Merit Bronze Star Medal Purple Heart |
Roger Hugh Charles Donlon (born January 30, 1934 – died January 25, 2024) was a brave officer in the United States Army. He made history by being the very first person to receive the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War. This is the highest award for bravery a soldier can get. He was also the first member of the special forces, known as the Green Berets, to earn this incredible honor.
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Early Life and Military Start
Roger Donlon was born in Saugerties, New York. He was the eighth child in a family of ten children. He studied at the New York State College of Forestry for one year.
In 1953, Roger joined the United States Air Force. Later, in 1955, he was accepted into West Point, a famous military school. However, he left West Point for personal reasons.
Roger Donlon joined the military again in 1958, this time with the United States Army. He went to Officer Candidate School and became an officer. In August 1963, he joined the Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets. He later earned a college degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1967.
Heroic Actions in Vietnam
In May 1964, Roger Donlon's special forces team was sent to Vietnam. They set up a military base called Nam Dong. This base was about 15 miles (24 km) from the border with Laos.
Early in the morning of July 6, 1964, the Nam Dong base was attacked. A very large group of enemy fighters, called the Vietcong, launched a surprise attack. Captain Donlon showed amazing leadership during this fierce battle. He helped his team fight back against the two-battalion attack, and they successfully defended the base.
Because of his incredible bravery and leadership during this battle, Captain Donlon received the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award for military heroism in the United States. Roger Donlon later retired from the Army as a Colonel.
Later Life and Recognition
After his military service, Roger Donlon continued to be recognized for his achievements. On June 28, 1965, the mayor of Lexington, Kentucky, gave him the key to the city. This is a special honor given to important people.
In 1965, he also received the Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement. This award celebrates people who have achieved great success in their fields.
Roger Donlon wrote two books about his experiences during the Vietnam War. These books are called Outpost of Freedom and Beyond Nam Dong. He lived in Kansas with his wife, Norma, and their children. Roger Donlon passed away on January 25, 2024, at the age of 89.
Awards and Decorations
Roger Donlon received many awards for his service in the military. Here are some of his most important honors:
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Combat Infantry Badge |
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South Vietnam Parachutist badge |
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Medal of Honor |
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Army Presidential Unit Citation with one bronze oak leaf clusters |
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Legion of Merit |
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Bronze Star Medal |
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Purple Heart |
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Meritorious Service Medal with one bronze oak leaf clusters |
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Joint Service Commendation Medal |
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Army Commendation Medal with two bronze oak leaf clusters |
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Army Good Conduct Medal |
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National Defense Service Medal with one bronze oak leaf clusters |
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Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service star |
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Army Service Ribbon |
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Army Overseas Service |
Foreign decorations and awards
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Officer of the National Order of Vietnam |
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Gallantry Cross with Palm |
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Vietnam Campaign Medal |
See also
