Bio: Popowski, Robert T. (Silver Star – 1969)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Popowski

----Source: THORP COURIER (Thorp, Clark County, Wis.) 30 Oct 1969

Specialist (now Sergeant) Robert T. Popowski, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ted Popowski of Lublin, has been awarded the Silver Start for leading an assault on enemy bunkers in Vietnam.

He merited the award for gallantry in action involving close combat with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Spec. 4 Popowski distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on May 19, 1969 while serving as an Automatic Rifleman with Company B, 5th Battalion, 50th Infantry, on an air mobile operation in Long An Province.

As his platoon approached a wood-line, it encountered heavy enemy fire from fortified positions. Disregarding his own safety, Spec. Popowski led an assault on the enemy bunkers. He maneuvered under the deadly enemy fire to a position from which he could throw a grenade in the bunker, destroying it. This courageous action made it possible for the rest of the friendly element to move up to where they could affect greater fire power and finally overrun the enemy positions.

The U.S. Army Chief of Staff reported “Specialist Popowski’s extraordinary heroism in close combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division and the United State Army.”

Sgt. Popowski is presently stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., after being moved to the states.

Other awards received by him included two Bronze Stars, Two Army Commendation Medals and two Air Medals.