The 35th Infantry Regiment Association salutes our fallen brother, SP4 Sammy Burrola Jr., who died in the service of his country on September 25th, 1968 in Quang Duc Province, Vietnam. The cause of death was listed as Small Arm/AW. At the time of his death Sammy was 21 years of age. He was from Buena Park, California. Sammy is honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Panel 42W, Line 9.
The decorations earned by SP4 Sammy Burrola Jr. include: the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Silver 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.
General Orders Number 6022, 21 November 1968, Award of The Silver Star
For gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Four Burrola distinguished himself while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. On 25 September 1968, Specialist Burrola's company was securing its perimeter when the company started receiving sniper fire. When they returned the enemy fire, the tempo of the attack increased with the enemy using machine gun, rocket, and grenade fire. Specialist Burrola was effectively suppressing the enemy fire when he saw a wounded comrade exposed to intense enemy fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he dashed to the man and carried him to a position of relative safety. Later, while attempting to resupply his machine gun position, Specialist Burrola was mortally wounded by shrapnel from an exploding enemy rocket. Specialist Four Burrola's courageous acts, profound concern for his fellow man, and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Sammy, To me you are still a 14 year old kid riding in the back of my Dad's pick-up on the way to baseball practice. I remember you playing shortstop in Pony League always having a smile, and always hustling on the ball field. Maybe today you are playing on a Field of Dreams somewhere.
Posted by: Marvin Hahn
To my main man Sammy
Posted for: SAMMY BURROLA JR:
Sammy, you humped my radio for me, and shared my packages as well as memories of home. I saw your cousin once after I got back , but it was too hard and I had to let it go. I've never forgotten you. A little piece of you is always with me. Rest peacefully, lt. Paul
Posted by: paul crary (Sammy was his RTO.....Dick Arnold)
Sammy is buried at Glen Haven Memorial Park, San Bernadino,CA
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