THE WALL OF FACES

Dear PFC Michael Halpin,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. The war was years ago, but we all need 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.

My father was childhood friends with Mike and has never forgotten him.

Michael Patrick Halpin
Date of birth: February 28, 1946
Date of death: January 19, 1968
Home of record: Nutley New Jersey
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 Private First Class Michael Patrick Halpin (ASN: RA-11757902), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Private First Class Halpin distinguished himself by heroic actions on 19 January 1968, while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in Tay Ninh Province, Republic of Vietnam. Private Halpin was on a road clearing operation when the armored column began receiving intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons, and RPG-2 rocket fire. Private Halpin was a member of a reactionary force of three armored personnel carriers and eight men that were deployed against the right flank of the enemy positions. After making a quick evaluation of the situation he and two other individuals dismounted their armored personnel carrier and maneuvered toward the enemy positions. As the three individuals maneuvered through the bullet riddled enemy kill zone they pinned down the Viet Cong force with their highly accurate fire. As they continued to close on the enemy emplacements Private Halpin fired on and killed one of the insurgents. As the fire fight continued the men moved right into the enemy position, routing or killing all of the Viet Cong. While in pursuit of the remaining insurgents Private Halpin was mortally wounded by intense enemy automatic weapons fire. Due to Private Halpin's valorous actions the mission was successfully completed and the enemy force defeated. Private Halpin's personal bravery and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 874 (March 1, 1968)

Action Date: January 19, 1968

Service: Army

Rank: Private First Class

Company: Company B

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 5th Infantry Regiment

Division: 25th Infantry Division

Dear PFC Michael Patrick Halpin, 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

If you have any additional information about this hero or are a relative, please contact the Foundation at [email protected] or 1-800-648-8387.