SSG Robert J. Pruden

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty:

Staff Sergeant Robert J. Pruden, United States Army, distinguished himself on 20 November 1969 while serving as a reconnaissance team leader with Company G, 75th Infantry, Americal Division, during an ambush mission in Quang Ngai Province, Republic of Vietnam.

The six-man team was inserted by helicopter into enemy-controlled territory to establish an ambush position and to obtain information concerning enemy movements. As the team moved into the pre-planned area, Sergeant Pruden deployed his men into two groups on opposite sides of a well-used trail.

As the groups were establishing their defensive positions, one member of the team was trapped in the open by heavy fire from an enemy squad. Realizing that the ambush position had been compromised, Sergeant Pruden directed his team to open fire on the enemy force.

Immediately, the team came under heavy fire from a second enemy element. Sergeant Pruden, with full knowledge of the extreme danger involved, left his concealed position and, firing as he ran, advanced toward the enemy to draw the hostile fire. He was seriously wounded twice but continued his attack until he fell for a third time, in front of the enemy positions.

Sergeant Pruden's actions resulted in several enemy casualties and withdrawal of the remaining enemy force. Although grievously wounded, he directed his men into defensive positions and called for evacuation helicopters, which safely withdrew the members of the team.

Sergeant Pruden's outstanding courage, selfless concern for the welfare of his men, and intrepidity in action at the cost of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit and the United States Army.