Darrel D. Dix

The President of the United States of America authorized by act of Congress July 9, 1918, has awarded the Silver Star to Specialist Six Darrel D. Dix, RA17637147, United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 8 August 1968. Specialist Six Dix distinguished himself by gallantry in action on 8 August 1968 while serving as Troop Advisor, 1st Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. On that date Specialist Dix was accompanying a platoon force which was moving to engaged and destroy fortified enemy positions near the village of Lai An, Republic of Vietnam. As the unit entered the area, it was suddenly taken under fire by a well-concealed enemy force, resulting in one of the machine gunners on Specialist Dix’s armored personnel carrier suffering a serious wound. With the subsequent increase in intensity of the hostile barrage, Specialist Dix left the relative security of his position inside the carrier to man the machine gun atop his vehicle, eliminating an enemy soldier in the process. The platoon advanced deeper into the hostile emplacement with Specialist Dix delivering highly effective fire on the enemy at extremely close range. As his vehicle passed a shell hole, he saw an enemy soldier lying in ambush ready to take advantage of the unprotected rear of the carrier. Realizing the vulnerability of that type of attack, Specialist Dix quickly eliminated the would-be ambusher with his machine gun. Inspired by his courageous example, the platoon effectively suppressed the enemy fire and ultimately destroyed all hostile positions. Specialist Six Dix’s conspicuous gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.