David A. Christian’s FIRST Silver Star
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
ESTABLISHED BY AN ACT OF CONGRESS 9 JULY 1918 (AMENDED BY ACT OF 25 JULY 1963) AND AWARDED BY THE
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
SILVER STAR MEDAL
PRESENTED TO
FIRST LIEUTENANT (INFANTRY) DAVID A. CHRISTIAN
UNITED STATES ARMY
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) David A. Christian (ASN: 0-5345884), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with Combat Support Company, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, on 23 September 1968, in the Republic of Vietnam. On that date, Lieutenant christian was leading his platoon on a reconnaissance in force operation near Nu-Ba Cam Mountain, when an enemy base camp was discovered. As the platoon prepared to enter the camp, the men were suddenly pinned down by intense small arms fire. Observing that his men were unable to maneuver, Lieutenant Christian unhesitatingly exposed himself to the hail of enemy rounds as he threw several hand grenades into the enemy positions, enabling his platoon to establish an effective base of counterfire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Christian then led a rapid assault that routed the insurgents, and resulted in the capture of valuable documents and supplies. The courageous determination and professional leadership which he demonstrated were major contributing factors in the successful outcome of the encounter, in which no friendly casualties were sustained. First Lieutenant Christian’s unquestionable valor while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an insurgent force is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Home of record: Turnersville, N.J… His mother Dorothy was an Army aide for Gen. Douglas MacArthur during World War II… David enlisted at 17, and after being promoted to sergeant was selected for Officers Candidate School. Graduated at 18, making him the Army’s youngest second lieutenant… Attended the Army’s Airborne School and Special Forces training… One of 26th Infantry’s Rangers, he earned two Silver Stars and the Distinguished Service Cross within a span of just over a month… Also earned seven Purple Hearts… Medically retired as a 21-year-old captain in 1970