The 35th Infantry Regiment Association salutes our fallen brother, CWO Donald Ray Boyles, who died in the service of his country on November 21st, 1969 in Pleiku Province, Vietnam. The cause of death was listed as Small Arms. At the time of his death Donald was 30 years of age. He was from Stigler, Oklahoma. Donald is honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Panel 16W, Line 104.
The decorations earned by CWO Donald Ray Boyles include: the Silver Star, the Soldiers Medal, 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.
Donald is buried in the Antioch Cemetery in Stigler,OK
The following is from the letter of condolence sent to Donald's parents.
"Donald was the assistant convoy commander traveling from LZ Oasis to Camp Enari. At 1915 hours, 21 November, the convoy came under intense enemy fire on Highway 19 approximately four miles southwest of Enari. Donald maintained communications between vehicles during the attack. His thoughts were with the men under him rather then his own personal safety. He was wounded in the hip and abdomen by enemy rifle fire during the ensuing battle. Even though seriously wounded, he still maintained communications essential for the safety of those with him. Donald received another wound in the leg and again refused to move from his position. His direction of the convoy during the battle was a major factor in its returning to Camp Enari. Your son succumbed to his wounds before reaching the 4th Medical Battalion at Camp Enari.
Donald was a truly dedicated and professional soldier. He was always quick with assistance to anyone in need and was one of the most knowledgeable and well-liked individuals in the Battalion. He continually strived for perfection and completion in every task he was assigned.
Chaplain Marshall has conducted a memorial service for Donald at Camp Enari. On behalf of the officers and men of the 1/35, I hope that you will accept this letter as a reflection of our deepest sympathy.
Sincerely.
Santiago A. Garcia
LTC INF Commanding
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(His Silver Star Citation)
For gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Chief Warrant Officer Boyles distinguished himself while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. On 21 November 1969, Warrant Officer Boyles was acting as assistant convoy leader on a convoy from Landing Zone Oasis when the column was attacked by an unknown size enemy force. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Warrant Officer Boyles chose to remain standing on his vehicle to direct .50 caliber machine gun fire and the movement of the other vehicles. While performing this courageous act, Warrant Officer Boyles was fatally wounded. Chief Warrant Officer Boyles' courageous actions, determination, 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.
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(His BSM Citation)
The Bronze Star Medal Is Presented to Chief Warrant Officer Donald R Boyles
For distinguishing himself by outstanding meritorious service in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. 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 faced as a 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 judgment, and devotion to duty have been in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
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