THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow soldiers. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

Sergeant Larry Louis Gambotto, Served with Company B, 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Dear Sgt Larry Gambotto,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. Your 71st birthday just passed, happy birthday. It has been too long, and it's about time for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dear SGT Larry Louis Gambotto, 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, Sir

Curt Carter

Larry Louis Gambotto
Date of birth: October 27, 1947
Date of death: September 13, 1968
Place of Birth: Michigan, Detroit
Home of record: Dearborn Michigan
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Silver Star

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 an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Larry Louis Gambotto (ASN: US-5497202), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Gambotto distinguished himself while serving as a Squad Leader with Company B, 2d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 13 September 1968, Sergeant Gambotto's company was conducing a combat operation in the vicinity of Duc Lap when it came under intense sniper fire. Leading a small element forward, Sergeant Gambotto attempted to locate and eliminate the enemy sniper. As the enemy fire increased his element was forced to retreat. As the company maneuvered into position to engage the snipers, Sergeant Gambotto voluntarily took the point. After proceeding about 50 meters, well-entrenched and concealed enemy positions took the platoon under fire and seriously wounded Sergeant Gambotto. Disregarding his wounds, he charged the enemy positions hurling grenades at them only to be mortally wounded by enemy shrapnel. Sergeant Gambotto's personal bravery, determination and exemplary devotion to duty are 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, 4th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 6278 (December 13, 1968)

Action Date: September 13, 1968

Service: Army

Rank: Sergeant

Company: Company B

Battalion: 2d Battalion

Regiment: 35th Infantry Regiment

Division: 4th Infantry Division