Bio: Vater, Jack R. (Bronze Star Medal – Dec 1968)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Vater

---------Source: OWEN ENTERPRISE (Owen, Clark County, Wis.) 09 Jan 1969

Army Spec. 4 Jack R. Vater, son of Mr. and Mrs. Neil Vater, Owen (Clark Co., Wis.), was recently awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroism in military operations in Vietnam.

The citation said Vater distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on September 28, 1968, while serving as a grenadier with Company A, 5th Battalion, 46th Infantry, 106th Infantry Brigade.

On that date, the company was situated near the village of Tho An. Vater's bunker came under intense enemy mortar rocket and grenade attack which wounded Vater and his two companions.

The citation said that despite his painful wounds, he moved from his position ot aid his injured companions. While treating the wounded soldiers he was wounded a second time by the detonation of an enemy grenade.

"Undaunted, he continued to assist his comrades. When the medevac helicopter arrived, he aided in the movement of the wounded to the aircraft.

"His timely actions contributed a lot to the success of the evacuation and saving the lives of his fellow soldiers," the citation said.

Vater is a 1967 graduate of Wisconsin State University, La Crosse. He entered the army that same year.