Exploring the Vietnam Medals: Beyond the Commonly Known Awards
The Vietnam conflict, otherwise known as the "Vietnam War," is steeped in a myriad of military decorations and medals. While the United States honors its veterans with medals such as the Southeast Asian Service Medal or Armed Forces Expeditionary Service Medal, a lesser-known but significant honor was bestowed upon service members by the Government of South Vietnam: the Cross of Gallantry (Croix de galanterie).
Unknown Award: The Cross of Gallantry
What is often overlooked is this South Vietnamese decoration, which was awarded to units and personnel that had demonstrated exceptional valor, leadership, and dedication during their service. Unlike the more familiar U.S. medals, these awards are not as widely recognized or catalogued, making them a fascinating subject for veterans and military historians alike.
Combining Valor Medals with the Cross of Gallantry
Interestingly, a holder of the Cross of Gallantry would have had a corresponding American valor award if they had served in the United States military. For instance, a soldier who received a Bronze Star would have worn the Cross of Gallantry with a bronze star appurtenance. A Silver Star was accompanied by the Cross of Gallantry with a silver star appurtenance. The Distinguished Service Cross and Medal of Honor, being the highest ranks of valor, would have come with the highest class of the Cross of Gallantry, often adorned with a bronze palm.
A Special Case of the Cross of Gallantry
Among the notable instances of the Cross of Gallantry is the case of R. Lee Ermey, a well-known military and acting personality, known for his role in the film Full Metal Jacket. In a photograph of Ermey in full dress, he is seen wearing the Cross of Gallantry without an accompanying American valor award. Ermey claimed his Cross of Gallantry under MAC-V General Order 8, which was a significant decree made by the last president of the Republic of South Vietnam awards the Cross of Gallantry with the Bronze Palm to all allied military personnel, both as a personal award and as a unit citation.
The general public and even many service members are not well-informed about such orders and decrees. The Marines, in particular, are known for their rigorous standards and the difficulty of earning such awards, which makes the Cross of Gallantry all the more meaningful to them.
Medal Requirements and Eligibility
Eligibility for various medals during the Vietnam era is determined by both the nation of service and the specific role played in the conflict. Every service member who served honorably during the "Vietnam era" or other wartime service eras, starting with the Korean War, is entitled to the National Defense Service Medal. However, to receive the Vietnam Service Medal, one must have served in Vietnam or neighboring regions like Laos, Cambodia, or other designated areas.
Soldiers who served in the Vietnam theater before formal U.S. involvement but did not come into direct combat with North Vietnamese troops would be eligible for the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. The ultimate decision on where to deploy and the specific MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) is made by the Army and other services.
It is important to note that individuals who served during the Vietnam era but never entered the actual country of Vietnam or nearby regions do not qualify for Vietnam-related medals such as the Vietnam Service Medal.
The Cross of Gallantry, a unique and less-known award, serves as a powerful testament to the bravery and dedication of allied service members during the Vietnam conflict. Its recognition and understanding can shed light on the broader context of military honors and the sacrifices made during this significant period in history.