Military Records: Tommy Milam, 1969, Winn Parish, LA.
Submitted by Greggory E. Davies, 120 Ted Price Lane, Winnfield, LA 71483
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From: June 19, 1969 Winn Parish Enterprise News-American

Tommy Milam Awarded Bronze Star In Vietnam

Specialist Four Tommy Milam, Combat Support Company 1st Battalion, 26th
Infantry, has been awarded the Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device for action
October 20, 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam, for action against a hostile
force.

On this date, Milam was serving with his unit's reconnaissance platoon during
a counter-insurgency operation ten miles northwest of Quan Loi.  At
approximately 1430 hours, his platoon was suddenly subjected to a vicious
fusillade of small arms and automatic weapons fire from a well concealed
insurgent force.  Milam, who was with the lead element, immediately found
cover behind a berm and began placing suppressive counterfire on the enemy. 
When his platoon leader advanced in an attempt to neutralize an enemy machine
gun position, Milam dauntlessly left the safety of the berm in order to
provide him with maximum fire support.  Moments later, his platoon leader
became wounded and pinned down in an exposed location.

With complete disregard for his personal welfare, Milam again advanced through
the savage hostile barrage, drawing the enemy fire to himself to allow his
platoon leader to move back to the main body of the friendly force.  Milam
then continued placing devastating counterfire on the enemy machine gunner
until the position was silenced.  His courageous initiative, bold
determination and selfless concern for his fellow soldier's welfare was
instrumental in saving the life of his wounded platoon leader and
significantly contributed to the defeat of the insurgent force.  

Milam's outstanding display of aggressiveness, devotion to duty and personal
bravery is keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and
reflects great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division and the United
States Army.

Tommy is the son of Mr. and Mrs. V. Matt Milam, Jr., of Winnfield.