The 35th Infantry Regiment Association salutes our fallen brother, PFC John Darracott Heflin, who died in the service of his country on September 2nd, 1967 in Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam. The cause of death was listed as Booby Trap. At the time of his death John was 20 years of age. He was from Arlington, Texas. John is honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Panel 25E, Line 84.
The decorations earned by PFC John Darracott Heflin include: the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation.
Buried in MOORE MEMORIAL GARDENS, ARLINGTON, TX
Tom Marlin
Friend
Arlington, TX
A Great Friend and Neighbor
I grew up in the same Arlington neighborhood with John, just a few houses away in Arlington. He was a member of my mothers Cub Scout Den, and always one of her favorites. She was crushed when she heard of his death, as we all were. She created a little memorial piece for him that she always displayed on our fireplace mantel. She proudly displayed it until her death. I still keep it close at hand. I have thought of him often throughout the years, and miss his bright smile and friendly way. He will never be forgotten, and always remembered as a hero. In his short life, he touched many people.
(His BSM Citation)
The Bronze Star Medal is Presented to Private First Class John D Heflin
For meritorious service in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Heflin distinguished himself while serving as a Rifleman in Companies A and D, 2/35th Infantry. His exceptional enthusiasm and willingness to participate in all phases of his units operations won him the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers. He constantly devoted himself to improving his skills as an infantryman, often spending his own time training to ensure that his abilities were a match for the difficult and dangerous conditions he faced. His leadership abilities were quickly recognized and he was recommended for training at the 3rd Brigade NCO School. On 2 September 1967 Private First Class John D Heflin was mortally wounded by fragments from a hostile booby trap. He had made a valuable contribution to his units mission in Vietnam. Private First Class John D Heflins loyal and dedicated efforts are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
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