It's good for morale, and shows that we are working together as a team; it also serves to show that the S. Vietnamese government "Recognized" the efforts of the US Servicemen.
During and after
purple heart, good conduct, national defense, Vietnam service, Vietnam campaign
See if "The American War Library" can help you out.
Medals in the military are awards. They wear them on their uniforms or display them on the walls at home. Certain military awards also allow some specific privileges for the men who won them in battle. Up until the Vietnam War, the son of a Medal of Honor winner was automatically qualified (with all other standards being met) to enter the US Military Academy at West Point. Medals also helped servicemen get promoted to higher ranks when other standards were met. US Airmen, US Coast Guardsmen, US Marines, US Sailors, and US Soldiers are all elgible to receive military awards (medals).
During World War II, approximately 1 million African Americans served in the U.S. military. Despite facing significant discrimination, around 7,000 were awarded various medals for their bravery and service, including the Distinguished Service Cross and other honors. Notably, the 761st Tank Battalion, the Tuskegee Airmen, and other units received recognition for their distinguished contributions. However, many believe that the number of awards did not fully reflect the bravery and sacrifices made by Black soldiers during the war.
David Christian, a U.S. Army soldier during the Vietnam War, was awarded several medals for his service, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Purple Heart. These honors recognized his bravery, leadership, and the injuries he sustained during combat. His contributions exemplified the dedication and sacrifices made by many soldiers during the conflict.
No one had to manufacture the medals during the Vietnam War. There was a very large number produced for World War II and they are still being used.
During and after
Ian Walters has written: 'Dasher Wheatley and Australia in Vietnam' -- subject(s): Medals, Victoria Cross, Vietnamese Conflict, 1961-1975
purple heart, good conduct, national defense, Vietnam service, Vietnam campaign
They were given medals for serving during the war, for individual campaigns in Africa, and the Middle East, the South Pacific, and gallantry medals as appropriate.
Many US soldiers received three or more medals during WWI. Some were not US medals, but foreign awards. Colonel William J. Donovan and Sergeant Alvin York were two.
5 medals
700
Because their acts and performance were above and beyond the call of duty,
2
•During the Vietnam War, 246 Medals of Honor were received, 154 of them posthumously(After Death). Army 160, followed by 57 to the Marines, 16 to the Navy and the remaining 13 to the Air Force