After six decades, an african american Vietnam officer from the Army finally gets his medal of honor.
US Army Col. Paris Davis is set to receive the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Vietnam war. the vet is currently 83 years old and received a phone call from President Biden letting him know he will soon receive the long-awaited award.
Based on a report by ArmyTimes, Davis exhibited exceptional courage during a combat mission in Vietnam by repeatedly sprinting into an open rice paddy to rescue each team member.
Despite sustaining injuries from an enemy grenade that shattered his hand, he valiantly continued to use his pinkie finger to fire his rifle. Remarkably, Davis’ heroic efforts resulted in the survival of his entire team.
Davis was recommended for the Medal of Honor, the highest military combat medal, but the paperwork supporting his nomination went missing on at least two occasions.
Although he was awarded the Silver Star Medal, the third-highest military combat medal, some members of Davis’ team have claimed that racial discrimination played a role in the mishandling of his case.
The Vietnam War was a long and divisive conflict that lasted from 1955 to 1975. The official number of American military personnel who died in the Vietnam War was 58,220. This includes those who died in combat and from other causes, such as accidents, illness, or suicide.
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by acts of valor and bravery above and beyond the call of duty.
The President of the United States awards the Medal of Honor in the name of Congress. The process of awarding the Medal of Honor is rigorous and involves an investigation by the Department of Defense, a recommendation by the service branch, a review by the Secretary of Defense, and ultimately a decision by the President.
Read the full story:: Vietnam Officer Gets Medal of Honor After Waiting 60 Years
