America’s Vietnam War veterans are some of the finest examples of the American spirit and selfless service.
When asked to join their fellow citizens and defend the principles of freedom and liberty abroad, they answered the call to serve. Many volunteered to join America’s military. Others were drafted. No matter how they were asked to answer the call, they answered and displayed courage and selfless service.
They faced constant challenges – shifting landscapes, volatile weather, and an unpredictable threat. Battles could last from hours to weeks. The hard-won territory could change hands in a matter of moments.
Nonetheless, America’s courageous sons and daughters in uniform persevered.
Grey Feathers, Led By Love Of Country
Grey Feathers’ book on Actual Operations during the Vietnam War is an excellent example of appreciating, celebrating, and honoring the selfless service and sacrifice of thousands of Americans during the Vietnam War. Grey Feathers, Led By Love Of Country, written by Daniel DeWald, is the story of a combat platoon leader’s responsibilities and role in South Vietnam, Central Highlands, from 1967 to 1970.
The story is mainly derived from countless interviews, after-action reports, fourth-division magazine articles, and personal observations and experiences about this period of the Vietnam War. The unit served as the 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division, a highly decorated unit marked by a cloverleaf symbol of the Fourth Division. It was nicknamed “the Braves.” In 1967 when the team was transferred to the border of Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, the unit’s main supply route in the field was highway nineteen, a road mostly ambushed and mined to hamper resupply efforts. The term grey feather was given to each man who served unselfishly in the unit because all were battle-tested and watched each other’s back during the conflict. It created a sense of calling and satisfaction to do. Based on combat action reports, battle scenes are described as accurately as possible. This book intends to describe the events and show how unselfish and bravely the unit responded to overcome the overwhelming battle condition and odds. It also shows the difficulties of decision-making under fire, whether by an officer or enlisted man. The pressures of battle forced quick decisions and movements. Support units such as helicopter gunships, F-4 Phantom pilots, supply transporters, armored vehicles, naval artillery, MedEvac helicopters, and field hospitals performed admirably and clearly. Each man earned their grey feather, which was a symbol of each being brave in adverse conditions. They all watch each other’s back and ensure that all hostilities are met honorably and with force.
Book Excerpts
1. “A grey feather is an Indian term. The braves were given colored feathers for every feat accomplished. The grey feather was the first step.”
2. “At times, NVA soldiers emerged from bunkers and attacked the platoon perimeter. The fighting was intense in close combat, including hand-to-hand combat.”
3. “The Plei Trap Valley involved three operations–infiltration routes were blocked, enemy strongholds demolished, and successfully minimized NVA operations in Kontum province.”
Author’s Bio
Daniel M. DeWald was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and served in the U.S. Army 4th Infantry Division from August 1969 to August 1970. He was 1st Lieutenant and served as a combat platoon leader. As a result of the war, he received commendation medals. He received the Bronze Star for Valor (BSV) for saving the company commander and four others under hostile fire conditions by conducting an orderly withdrawal from the conflict. He also received a Silver Oak Leaf Cluster during a joint operation with ARVN (Army South Vietnam). In addition, he received the Air Medal, the Combat Infantryman’s badge, and others.
He received an MBA from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, and a B.S. degree from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. He worked for many blue-chip companies and then served as a consultant in supply chain activities. He currently resides in the Charleston, South Carolina, area.
