TYRONE-WILLIE

Navy Cross

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Willie Donald Tyrone (MCSN: 1221421), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Assistant Advisor to the Vietnamese 39th Ranger Battalion while serving with Advisory Team SEVEN of the U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, on the night of 30 - 31 May 1965. When the battalion was subjected to heavy small-arms, mortar and 57-mm. recoilless rifle fire, Staff Sergeant Tyrone, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved about to point out targets and improve the position. Although painfully wounded in the shoulder, he refused evacuation, and when the Battalion Commander and Battalion S-3 were also wounded, and the Battalion Advisor killed, creating a critical command situation, Staff Sergeant Tyrone, in spite of his wound, assumed the advisory responsibility alone. He maintained radio contact throughout the night and continually encouraged his comrades by his words and valiant example. When the Viet Cong launched a strong counterattack early in the morning, he was mortally wounded, but continued to inspire his comrades by firing his weapon, killing at least an additional ten of the enemy before he died. Staff Sergeant Tyrone's conspicuous gallantry, willing self-sacrifice and extraordinary bravery, reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the cause of freedom.

General Orders: Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

Action Date: May 30 - 31, 1965

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Staff Sergeant

Company: Advisor (Attached)

Battalion: 39th Ranger Battalion (ARVN)

Regiment: Advisory Team 7

Division: Military Assistance Command, Vietnam

Submitted by Doug Bewall RMCM USN Ret