Bresnahan Leads Effort to Award Local Vietnam War Hero with Medal of Honor
WASHINGTON, DC: Yesterday, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) introduced legislation to authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to Retired Colonel Robert J. Graham of Nuangola, PA, for extraordinary acts of valor during the Vietnam War.
“Colonel Graham’s actions during the battle at Tay Ninh Province were a clear case of honor and courage far beyond the call of duty,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “With his plane nearly destroyed and enemy forces overwhelming our troops, he chose to continue the mission, breaking through adverse weather and heavy fire so that hundreds of American lives could be saved. His quick decision-making and relentless determination made all the difference on one of the Vietnam War’s darkest days. His actions on that day, and throughout his career, represent the very best of our military. He has more than earned our nation’s highest honor.”
Colonel Graham, then a Captain in the United States Air Force (USAF), distinguished himself on May 1, 1966, during Operation Birmingham, when he flew a heavily damaged F-100 Super Sabre through monsoon conditions to support American troops under siege in Tay Ninh Province. Despite being grounded due to severe damage to his aircraft and overwhelming odds, Graham made more than 15 low-level attach passes under artillery fire, destroying eight enemy gun positions and neutralizing over 1,500 enemy troops. His actions directly saved hundreds of American lives.
“Hundreds of American lives were at stake that day. There were 4,000 enemy troops overrunning hundreds of our soldiers, and the situation was desperate,” said Col. Graham, USAF, Ret. “I agreed to attack knowing I would not come out alive—my plane was shot up, the odds were impossible, but my one life was more than a fair trade for saving hundreds of my fellow Americans. By pressing the attack, we were able to break the back of the enemy and turn the tide of the battle.”
Colonel Graham flew over 500 combat missions across four tours in Vietnam, serving 26 years in the Air Force.
“Recognizing this exceptional valor deserves our highest tribute,” continued Rep. Bresnahan. “Colonel Graham answered the call when no one else could. I am proud to introduce this legislation to upgrade his Silver Star to the Medal of Honor.”
The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest and most prestigious military decoration, awarded only for personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. It is an honor presented by the President of the United States on behalf of the United States Congress.
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