In September
1969 VSPA received the great news that Captain
Garth A. Wright, member of VSPA, had been awarded
the Air Force Cross for his individual heroism on
the unforgettable morning of 26 January 1969. Formerly
the OIC of Security Operations he departed in early
April to his new job as Law Enforcement Officer,
71st SPS, Germany.
On 26 Jan 1969, Capt Wright
commanded a Security Police block and sweep force
under heavy fire by an NVA Sapper CO which
had penetrated the fence-line. Capt Wright stopped
one sapper with an M16 burst and another with his
.38 after his rifle had malfunctioned. The influence
of his command was considered instrumental to our
success in defeating Charlie that day. Captain Wright
himself, and his well-earned award, are milestones
in Security Police professionalism, pride, and prestige.
