Vietnam Silver Star/Purple Heart, LT Raymond Ellis, USN

Silver Star/Purple Heart pair to Lieutenant Raymond Ellis, US Navy: Silver Star, slot brooch, machine-engraved “LT/Raymond Ellis/USN”; Purple Heart, slot brooch, machine-engraved “LT/Raymond Ellis/USN. With a photocopied citation:

“For Conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Advisor to the 27th River Assault Group, Vietnamese Navy, in the hostile area of Dinh Tuong Province, Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Ellis advised and assisted in developing the concept, planning the operation and executing the attack on a heavily fortified Viet Cong stronghold. During the assault on the object area, as enemy fire increased in volume and accuracy, he continually exposed himself to this fire while calling for air support and artillery bombardment. He personally maintained the integrity of the force by his quick actions in preventing the command craft from grounding. Mortally wounded by hostile fire while attempting to replace the fallen gunner of an automatic weapon, Lieutenant Ellis, by his exemplary leadership, outstanding courage and inspiring devotion to duty, upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.” The action in which LT Ellis was killed took place on 30 September 1965. The award was approved by the Secretary of the Navy on 12 December 1965.

Raymond Ellis was born in Philadelphia in 1930. He joined the Navy in 1949, spending a year on active duty before joining the reserves. In 1959, he left a teaching position to reenter active duty. LT Ellis is buried in the Gettysburg National Cemetery.