Kenneth D. Ferguson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Kenneth D. Ferguson, Major (Infantry), 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 as American Advisor with Provisional Reconnaissance Unit and Revolutionary Development Cadres, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Major Ferguson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during an enemy attack on 31 January 1968. Immediately after the initial enemy assault, Major Ferguson moved through the streets under hostile fire with another American officer to search for wounded personnel. Seven wound persons were recovered and transported to the hospital. On returning to his compound, he was informed that fifty to sixty Viet Cong had captured and occupied the Province Chief’s compound. Major Ferguson, armed with an M-79 grenade launcher, moved quickly to the Provincial compound with three other Americans and four Vietnamese soldiers, providing protective covering fire and resupplying ammunition. For almost two hours, under intense hostile machinegun and rocket fire, Major Ferguson maneuvered from one position to another and fired grenades through windows of the various buildings of the Provincial compound that were occupied by Viet Cong until he was seriously wounded. His aggressiveness, tenacity, and decisive leadership resulted in the enemy being driven from the compound. Major Ferguson’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon him and the United States Army.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 15 (March 30, 1972)