SEVERSON, DANIEL J.
SEVERSON, DANIEL J.
First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army
Company B, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne
Brigade (Separate),
Date of Action: January 16, 1967
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Daniel
J. Severson, First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile
force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 4th Battalion
(Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). First Lieutenant
Severson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 16 January
1967 while serving with elements of the 503rd Infantry on a search and destroy
operation near Ben Cat. As company Executive Officer, Lieutenant Severson was
accompanying the point platoon when it made contact and assaulted a hostile
bunker complex. During the intense fire-fight that ensued, several friendly
casualties were sustained, including the platoon leader. Lieutenant Severson
immediately assumed command and, exposed to the devastating fire, moved along
the line shouting encouragement, distributing ammunition and directing fire into
the insurgent emplacements. Inspired and calmed by his gallant leadership, the
platoon quickly regrouped and killed four Viet Cong before being ordered to
withdraw. As the unit stated to pull back, it suddenly received murderous fire
from a hidden gun on the right flank. Lieutenant Severson dauntlessly advanced
toward the Viet Cong position, until he was knocked unconscious by an exploding
grenade, which killed his radio operator and disabled his weapon. Regaining
consciousness, and armed only with grenades, he single-handedly assaulted the
hostile emplacement, but was painfully wounded in the leg. With complete
disregard for his safety, he continued to crawl forward and silenced the weapon,
killing one insurgent. Refusing medical treatment, Lieutenant Severson covered
the platoon withdrawal and returned to the company perimeter only after ensuring
that none of his dead or wounded were left behind. Demonstrating boundless
courage and aggressive determination, he further assisted the commander in
directing air strikes which routed the hostile force. First Lieutenant Severson
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his
unit, and the United States Army.
HQ US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 1064 (March 12, 1967)
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