Zaporozec

Julius served as - Spec 4 - E4 - Army - Drafted Selective Service

He was 21 years old at the time of his death.

Julius was born Oct. 14, 1948 in Beberach, Germany

His tour of duty began in Vietnam on Oct. 6, 1969.

Julius served with 2nd Platoon, H Company "Rangers", 75th Infantry,

1st Air Cav. Division.

Julius died at 7:00 pm on Nov. 17, 1969 in Phuoc Long Province,

Republic of South Vietnam. At the time of his death his Commanding officer was, Capt. Richard K. Griffiths, his Platoon leader was, Lt. Arthur A. Rice. Julius was on a long range recon patrol when his team encountered an enemy force. Heroic actions that day were the norm as Julius's 5 man team fought their way out. Julius died that day with David Torres. With them when they died were team members, Jim McIntyre, Kregg Jorgenson, and Rodgers

His death was a result of hostile fragmentation wounds received when his unit encountered an enemy force of unknown size.

"This battle in which Julius died, can be researched in a book

written by his friend and fellow team member, Kregg P.J. Jorgenson, titled, "Acceptable Loss"

His body was recovered.

Julius's religion was Roman Catholic. He was not married.

Julius is interred in the Hackettstown Cemetery, Hackettstown, N.J. not far from fellow Vietnam War Hero, Clifford Jones Jr.

Julius's name is listed on Panel 16W --- Line 12

of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C.

"Rest In Peace Julius You Are Missed By All Who Knew You"

Julius Zaporozec served his Country, his Flag, and the Men he served with, with Honor and Valor, to the highest standards of the United States Army. His Heroic service to the United States Army and his Country and his Team, earned him the following awards:

Silver Star Medal (3rd hightest award that can be awarded to a soldier) for Gallantry in action. (Please read general orders below)

Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service against hostile forces.

(Please read general orders below)

Purple Heart for wounds received in combat

Air Medal for meritorious service against hostile forces involving the use of aircraft. (Please read general orders below)

National Defense Service Medal

Vietnam Service Medal

Vietnam Campaign Medal

Good Conduct Medal

Combat Infantrymen Badge

The Republic of Vietnam, Gallantry Cross with Palm

The Republic of Vietnam, Military Merit Medal

Spc. 4 Julius Zaporozec's Silver Star Award (Posthumously) Reads:

For gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hosile force in the Republic of Vietnam, Pfc. Zaporozec distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on Nov. 17, 1969, while serving as rear scout with Company H, (Ranger), 75th Infantry (Airborne), during a long range patrol in Phuoc Long Province, Republic of Vietnam. While monitoring a heavy used trail, the patrol became engaged by a numerically superior enemy force, firing automatic weapons and rockets.

Pfc. Zaporozec, observing the insurgents attempt to encircle the patrol, repeatedly exposed himself to intense hostile fire while moving from position to position to counter the enemy's attack. The assistant patrol leader was wounded and Pfc. Zaporozec, with complete disregard for his own safety, attempted to move to his comrade's aid, killing two of the insurgents with devastating fire. While attempting to reach the assistant patrol leader, Pfc. Zaporozec was mortally wounded by the intense return fire. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. Authority, by direction of the President of the United States, under the provisions of the Act of Congress,

approved July 9, 1918.

Spc. 4 Julius Zaporozec's Bronze Star Award

(Posthumously) Reads:

Distinguishing himself by outstanding Meritorious service in connection with ground actions against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam during the period of October 7th to October 17, 1969. Through his untiring efforts and professional ability, he consistently obtained outstanding results. He was quick to grasp the implications of new problems with which he was faced as result of the ever changing situations inherent in a counterinsurgency operation and to find ways and means to solve those problems. The energetic application of his extensive knowledge has materially contributed to the efforts of the United States mission to the Republic of Vietnam to assist that country in ridding itself of the communist threat to its freedom. His initiative, zeal, sound judgement and devotion to duty have been in the highest tradition of the United States Army and reflects great credit on himself, his unit and his military service. Authority,

by the President of the United States

Spc 4 Julius Zaporozec's Air Medal Award

(Posthumously) Reads:

Distinguishing himself by Meritorious achievements while participating in sustained aerial flight in support of combat ground forces of the Republic of Vietnam during the period of October 7th to November 17, 1969. During this time he actively participated in more than twenty-five aerial missions over hostile territory in support of counterinsurgency operations. During all of these missions he displayed the highest order of air discipline and acted in accordance with the best traditions of the service. By his determination to accomplish his mission in spite of the hazards inherent in repeated aerial flights over hostile territory and by his outstanding example of professionalism and devotion to duty, he has brought credit upon himself, his organization and the military service. Authority,

by the President of the Unitied States.