THE WALL OF FACES

James R. Paul

Silver Star
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS
DURING Vietnam War
Service: Marine Corps
Rank: Sergeant
Battalion: 2d Battalion
Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF
GENERAL ORDERS:

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant James R. Paul (MCSN: 2043910), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as A Squad Leader with Company H, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 5 February 1967, while on a search and clear mission during Operation Independence in the vicinity of Quan Dai Loc, a squad from Sergeant Paul's platoon became temporarily pinned down in an open area by intense automatic rifle fire and M-79 grenades from a well concealed enemy ambush force and suffered many casualties. Unmindful of the enemy fire, Sergeant Paul moved forward to evaluate the situation and determine what assistance his squad could give the beleaguered group. Observing a wounded Marine in an open area unable to move and exposed to hostile enemy fire, he directed suppressing fire on the enemy positions and was wounded while trying to move the man to safety. Disregarding his wound, he continued his efforts to rescue the Marine until he fell, mortally wounded by enemy fire. By his exceptional fortitude, selfless courage and loyal devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, Sergeant Paul reflected great credit upon himself, and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Semper Fi Sergeant.

Dear SGT James Richard Paul, 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

James is buried at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne, Allen County,IN.

Dale-If you see this, please e-mail me. My dad was in Vietnam with your and condidered him a best friend! Your father helped carry my dad out when he was wounded, I have a picture of that. My father would love to get in touch with anyone from your family.