- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Institution: August 15, 1950
- Country: South Vietnam (Other Countries), United States (awarded to)
Under the Department of the Army General Order (DAGO) 43, 1970, all military personnel of all branches were awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry if they had served in Vietnam between March 1, 1961 and March 28, 1973.
In addition, according to DAGO 8, 1974, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Unit Citation with Palm was awarded to Headquarters U.S. Military Assistance Command (MACV) and all subordinate units during February 8, 1962 to March 28, 1973. This meant that all military personnel who were assigned to units that served in-country Vietnam during this period were considered as assigned to MACV, regardless of service or component.
In other words, the Republic of Vietnam authorized this award for all foreign military personnel and units for valorous achievement and participation during the Vietnam War. Equivalent to the French Croix de Guerre, the medal demonstrates South Vietnam’s gratitude to the American and Allied soldiers who worked, fought, and sacrificed themselves for the freedom of the Republic of Vietnam.
In closing, the Vietnam War has always been a touchy subject. Since the war was quite unpopular, many veterans were not welcomed when they returned, even if they did not personally agree with the conflict. In addition, many Vietnam War vets rarely talked about their experiences during the war and their service—until somewhat recently—went undiscussed.
As a result, besides the Medal of Honor and other prestigious U.S. decorations, many individuals do not know much about the Vietnam War medals, which is unfortunate because they are especially unique.
From the unique device attached to the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal to the fact that some medals were issued by a now defunct country—South Vietnam, the medals specifically connected to the Vietnam War have a distinctive story to tell.
he Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross was awarded in four degrees:
- Gallantry Cross with Palm: cited at the Armed Forces level.
- Gallantry Cross with Gold Star: cited at the Corps level.
- Gallantry Cross with Silver Star: cited at the Division level.
- Gallantry Cross with Bronze Star: cited at the Regiment or Brigade level.
The Gallantry Cross Medal Design
The medal is gold in color, and 35 mm wide. It consists of a Celtic cross with two crossed swords between the arms. The cross is superimposed over a wreath. The center of the cross contains a disc with the outline of the country of Vietnam between two palm branches joined at the bottom. A scroll is on top of the map and is inscribed “QUOC-GIA LAO-TUONG” (Reward of the State).
The suspension ribbon of the medal is 35 mm wide and is made up of the following stripes: 9 mm of Old Glory Red; 17 mm center stripe in Golden Yellow. The center stripe has sixteen strands of Old Glory Red; and 9 mm of Old Glory Red.
