THE WALL OF FACES

Dan Lee Neely
Date of birth: 27-Apr-48
Date of death: Killed in Action
Home of record: Birmingham Alabama
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 Private First Class Dan Lee Neely (ASN: RA-12937819), 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 B, 2d Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 3d Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. Private First Class Neely distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 March 1968 as radio-telephone operator of an airmobile infantry company on a search and destroy mission northwest of Hue. One of the company's platoons made contact with an estimated company of North Vietnamese Army regulars and immediately suffered several casualties. A reinforcement platoon moved up to assist and became pinned down behind a small bush line. Several medics attempted to crawl forward to give aid to the wounded who were lying in exposed positions, and they were hit by the enemy fire as they advanced. Private Neely began to move from position to position, exposing himself to the fusillade to collect hand grenades. Discarding his equipment and carrying only grenades and medical bandages, he then crawled forward toward the casualties. He maneuvered to within a few meters of a Viet Cong bunker and threw grenades at it in an attempt to silence its weapons. The attempt failed and he was driven back by a fierce enemy barrage. While the reinforcement platoon concentrated covering fire on the enemy position, Private Neely again moved forward, this time succeeding in reaching one of the wounded medics. After applying first aid to the man, he dragged him back to the relative safety of the friendly force's perimeter. Private Neely secured a further supply of grenades and attempted to return to the remaining wounded. While crawling forward in the face of withering fire, throwing hand grenades at the enemy, he was mortally wounded. Private Neely's extraordinary 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. 3338 (July 15, 1968)

Action Date: 1-Mar-68

Service: Army

Rank: Private First Class

Company: Company B

Battalion: 2d Battalion

Regiment: 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3d Brigade

Division: 1st Cavalry Division

Watching a documentary on the Vietnam War recently, I remembered Dan Neely from my past and that my mother had told me when he was killed in action all those years ago. I knew Dan briefly when my family and his family both attended 25th Avenue Baptist Church in Birmingham (Center Point), Alabama. He was four years older than I am. I simply remember him being the nicest, sweetest boy I had ever met, and I enjoyed talking and joking with him after church on Sundays. My family moved to another town and I never saw him again, but I never forgot him. I only recently learned of his heroic service in Vietnam. It is always so sad to lose someone so young. I hope that someday I will have the joy and honor of seeing him again when it's my turn to go to Heaven. Rest well, sweet Dan.

Dan Neely was a very close friend of mine. I was heart broken when he died. He was a wonderful man and very loving. I miss him very much! He had a quarter on a chain that he wore all the time. Just before he left he gave it to me. I still have it. I thank you Dan Neely for your friendship and being the brother I needed during my awkward teenage years, and for the shoulder I leaned on. I still love you and miss you. Love, Eddi

Dear PFC Dan Lee Neely, 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

Brother, Honoring your stellar service and commitment as one brave soldier. And Holmes (Roy) your commander has written such a fine narrative that makes the significance of your life and service shine and remembered.