South Carolina Guard Rededicates Range to Honor Vietnam War Hero

Photo By Staff Sgt. Tim Andrews | U.S. Soldiers with the South Carolina Army National Guard gather at Fort Jackson's Range 14 to officially rededicate it in honor of Distinguished Service Cross recipient, Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Wesley F. Walker, Apr. 2, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina. The ceremony was a way to honor and recognize the dedication of Walker's selfless actions and extraordinary heroism on July 11, 1972, while served as a light observation helicopter pilot north of Quang Tri City, Republic of Vietnam. Walker was responsible for the rescue of five American aircrew members and one Vietnamese marine, all of whom were severely burned or wounded, and prevented their capture or death at the hands of the enemy. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Tim Andrews)  

UNITED STATES

04.02.2025

Story by Maj. Karla Evans 

South Carolina National Guard

Fort Jackson, S.C. – U.S. Army Soldiers from the South Carolina National Guard gathered at Fort Jackson's Range 14 today to officially rededicate it in honor of Distinguished Service Cross recipient, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Wesley F. Walker. The ceremony was a way to honor and recognize the dedication of (at the time) U.S. Army First Lieutenant Walker's selfless actions on July 11, 1972, while serving as a light observation helicopter pilot north of Quang Tri City, Republic of Vietnam. Walker is credited for rescuing five American aircrew members and one Vietnamese marine, all of whom were severely burned or wounded, and prevented their capture or death at the hands of the enemy. Walker's actions at the risk of his own life made him a true American hero.

During an emergency rescue mission, Walker and his team came under intense enemy fire – small arms, automatic weapons, 23mm and 37mm anti-aircraft fires, and heat-seeking missiles. Despite the overwhelming assault, Walker returned fire, providing cover for his team leader and assisting him in the search for the downed American aircrew.

"Lt. Col. Walker was willing to risk everything for his brothers in arms; he wasn't thinking of medals or recognition," U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Robin B. Stilwell, the adjutant general of South Carolina, said, "But his actions are enduring; he is a living reminder of bravery every Soldier can find within."

The downed crew was located in a bomb crater. Walker flew to their position, and while laying down suppressive fire, he landed and picked up three survivors. Overloaded with survivors, he skillfully maneuvered his straining helicopter to safety, ultimately rescuing five American aircrew members and one Vietnamese marine, preventing their capture or death.

"It is an honor for me today to represent the South Carolina Military Department in recognizing a warrior who, through his heroism in Vietnam and subsequent National Guard service, distinguished himself as a South Carolinian at his finest and an American at his best," said Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Jones, deputy adjutant general of South Carolina, during this morning's ceremony.

The rededication of Range 14 is a powerful reminder of Walker's bravery, which will inspire future generations of Soldiers training at Fort Jackson. It is a fitting tribute to a true American hero.

• Date Taken: 04.02.2025
• Date Posted: 04.02.2025 22:02
• Story ID: 494429
• Location: US