THE WALL OF FACES

Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Joseph H. Sullivan (MCSN: 1851528), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader of a Combined Action Platoon, Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, near Binh Song, Vietnam, on 15 September 1966. When the defensive perimeter came under attack by heavy small arms, automatic weapons and accurate rifle grenade fire from a superior Viet Cong force of approximately company size, Staff Sergeant Sullivan was seriously wounded by the initial fire. Although painfully wounded, he, without hesitation moved immediately to get his squad in the trenches. With full knowledge of the hazards involved and complete disregard for his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to search out each member of his squad to determine the extent of their injuries. Finding only the squad radio operator alive, Staff Sergeant Sullivan directed him to radio for illumination, defensive fire and reinforcements and to hold his sector of the perimeter at all costs. He then positioned himself directly in the path of the Viet Cong who were entering the perimeter in squad sized groups. As the attack progressed and the enemy fire increased in volume and accuracy, Staff Sergeant Sullivan continued to set an example of courage and calmness until he fell mortally wounded by a hail of small arms fire. By his daring initiative and valiant fighting spirit, he served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially in repulsing the Viet Cong from the position. His marked courage, resolute leadership and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
General Orders: Board Serial 1054 (February 15, 1967)

Action Date: 15-Sep-66

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Staff Sergeant

Company: Company C

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Dear SSGT Joseph Harry Sullivan, 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

Joe was a “gung-ho” marine. He was proud to be a marine enlisting at 17 years old. I met him when he was stationed at the Marine Corp Air Station in Beaufort, SC through a mutual friend. We were married 12-8-62. He was transferred to Camp Lejeune, NC where we lived until he was accepted to DI School at Parris Island. He carried two platoons through as DI. We had a son, Clint, during this time. Joe was an outstanding DI. One of my old boyfriends was in the first platoon he carried through #364. My friend did not know Joe was my husband until graduation of that platoon. He found out why Joe was so tough on him. 15 months after Clint was born we had a daughter, Patty. Joe always said he was hired to fight so he volunteered to go to Vietnam. During this time he was promoted to Staff Sergeant. He was killed defending Fort Page. I was presented the Silver Star for his bravery. Capt. Bing West wrote a detailed account of Joe’s service in Vietnam and his death in “The Village,” which is still in book stores today. Every marine should read this book.

Semper Fi, Marine.

Served with Joe in the early sixties. Was proud to be Joe's best man when he married Mary. Bill Abel.