THE WALL OF FACES

Albert Dionisio Contreros , Jr.
Date of birth: 29-Dec-48
Date of death: November 20, 1968
Place of Birth: New York, New York
Home of record: Whitehall New York
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Distinguished Service Cross


Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Albert Dionisio Contreros, Jr. (ASN: 11821119), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company F, 58th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile). Sergeant Contreros' distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 November 1968, while leading a reconnaissance patrol southwest of Hue. Once inserted deep within enemy-infiltrated territory, Sergeant Contreros located a trail, apparently heavily-traveled, and established an ambush position. The following morning the team sprang the trap on an enemy squad, killing nine and capturing documents. Later, when the team commenced to move to the landing zone to be extracted, a concealed enemy force opened fire and wounded one American before the team could find cover. Sergeant Contreros immediately directed his men to return fire while he radioed for an ambulance helicopter. When gunships arrived over the conflict area, he pointed out enemy targets for them. At the same time, he medical helicopter had lowered a hoist rig through the jungle canopy and was pulling the casualty up when the communists renewed their assault. In an effort to protect the wounded man, Sergeant Contreros exposed himself to the hostile fusillade to direct the suppressive fires both of his men and the gunships. Suddenly, an enemy anti-personnel mine was detonated, inflicting fatal wounds on the heroic team leader. Sergeant Contreros' outstanding heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 476 (February 20, 1970)

Action Date: 20-Nov-68

Service: Army

Rank: Sergeant

Company: Company F

Regiment: 58th Infantry Regiment

Division: 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile)

My beloved brother simply wanted to let you know that I will be in your Vietnam June 9th of 2016. I will be visiting the home where we lost you, but I know spiritually you are always by my side

He was apart of my family, and I actually was never told the story until now. I wasn't born at the time he died, but I will always remember him, because he died for our country and our freedom.

If anyone is looking for his history or chooses to reach out to me this this my updated information [email protected] Myrna Contreras from Florida

Dear SGT Albert D Contreros Jr, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter