Burrola, Sammy Jr.
Army Specialist 4

Sammy Jr. Burrola, age 21, from Buena Park, California, Orange county.

Service era: Vietnam
Military history: 35th Infantry Regiment

Date of death: Wednesday, September 25, 1968
Death details: Silver Star citation: 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.
Cemetery: Glen Haven Memorial Park, San Bernadino

Source: National Archives, 35th Infantry Regiment Association