The Bronze Star, introduced in 1944 by executive action, is given to those brave few who have shown true valor in the face of America’s enemies. Its awarded have ranged from senators and governors to influential business people. The Bronze Star is awarded to members of the armed forces who go above and beyond the call of duty and display acts of heroism and bravery in the face of enemy fire.
So what does it take to receive the bronze star? Read on to find out about four famous Navy vets who received the bronze star and forever entrenched themselves in the annals of American history. Note: these three veterans may have earned accolades higher than the bronze star.
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Rudy Boesch
Master Chief Boesch speaks before a crowd in 2007.
You may recognize this old badass from Survivor: Borneo, whose sheer kickassery warranted an appearance on Survivor: All-Star.
Even more insanely cool, he was a Navy SEAL. Cooler than that, he was a Master Chief. How did he earn his bronze star?
Master Chief Boesch, now 88, was one of the finest SEALs to fight in Vietnam. He participated in over 45 combat operations against the North Vietnamese Army and the Viet Cong. It’s during this time that, between swatting Viet Cong asses, he managed to find a chance to attend a Bronze Star pinning. He can also be considered the father of the (unfortunately defunct) South Vietnamese Underwater Demolitions Team.
2. Thomas J. Hudner
Retired Captain Thomas J. Hudner speaks in Annapolis, Maryland in 2008.
Here’s a name that, shamefully, you might not have heard. We hadn’t. He’s a Bronze Star and Medal of Honor recipient, and my God did he earn every inch of that ribbon. Listen to this citation, courtesy of AcePilots.com:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a pilot in Fighter Squadron 32, while attempting to rescue a squadron mate whose plane struck by antiaircraft fire and trailing smoke, was forced down behind enemy lines. Quickly maneuvering to circle the downed pilot and protect him from enemy troops infesting the area, Lt. (j.g.) Hudner risked his life to save the injured flier who was trapped alive in the burning wreckage. Fully aware of the extreme danger in landing on the rough mountainous terrain and the scant hope of escape or survival in subzero temperature, he put his plane down skillfully in a deliberate wheels-up landing in the presence of enemy troops. With his bare hands, he packed the fuselage with snow to keep the flames away from the pilot and struggled to pull him free. Unsuccessful in this, he returned to his crashed aircraft and radioed other airborne planes, requesting that a helicopter be dispatched with an ax and fire extinguisher. He then remained on the spot despite the continuing danger from enemy action and, with the assistance of the rescue pilot, renewed a desperate but unavailing battle against time, cold, and flames. Lt. (j.g.) Hudner’s exceptionally valiant action and selfless devotion to a shipmate sustain and enhance the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Let’s recap: this brave son of a gun purposely crash-landed in order to pull his squad mate from a burning wreck. In waiting for his inevitable Medal of Honor, Hudner received the Bronze Star.
3. Chris Kyle
Chief Petty Officer Kyle in January 2012.
This man needs no introduction. He’s well known for his bestselling book American Sniper, and has been portrayed by Bradley Cooper in the film directed by Clint Eastwood. Y’all know Chris Kyle. He was also the recipient of four Bronze Stars with “V” devices. He was a registered, recorded, and proven badass. He was taken from us too soon by a psychotic former Marine at a gun range, where Kyle was volunteering to help him through his PTSD.
A figure of controversy, he is alleged to have the most kills of any US military member, past or present. This figure has been disputed, however the US Navy confirms 150 kills. The man has collected enough Taliban and Iraqi insurgent skulls to fill a swimming pool. Whether or not you liked the guy, you have to appreciate that number.
Celebrate the achievements and sacrifices of these brave men, and any other brave service members, with Navy Crow’s Bronze Star T-shirt. Even if you aren’t a recipient yourself, you can add the name of a recipient (or any other custom text) beneath this badass design. Let everybody know that you appreciate the heroism and bravery of our men and women in uniform. Click the image below to go to our Bronze Star tribute page!
