John Bernard Proffit

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John Bernard Proffit (245-88-7500), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. Specialist Four Proffit distinguished himself while serving as machine gunner during combat operations northwest of An Khe. As Specialist Proffit’s platoon was preparing to depart their night defensive position on the morning of 3 August 1970, they were suddenly attacked by an element of enemy soldiers firing small arms, rockets, and hand grenades. Although wounded in the initial attack, Specialist Proffit secured his machine gun and ran to a forward position to obtain a clear field of fire. Standing alone in an exposed position, he directed a continuous stream of fire at the enemy soldiers, ultimately forcing them to withdraw. Throughout the engagement, Specialist Proffit remained in his exposed position repulsing the enemy attack until he collapsed over his weapon. Specialist Four Proffit’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 4854 (October 16, 1970)