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Press Release

For Immediate Release
Contact: Sean C. Bonyun
July 23, 2009
(202) 225-3761

Upton Presents Long Overdue Bronze Star to Local Hero
St. Joseph's Guy Arrans awarded prestigious medal for heroic service over 40 years ago in Vietnam

ST. JOSEPH, MI – Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) recently presented a long overdue Bronze Star to St. Joseph’s Guy Arrans for heroic service during the Vietnam War. Upon his graduation from Paw Paw High School in June 1965, Arrans enlisted in the United States Navy. In August 1966, Arrans arrived in Vietnam to serve as a Gunner’s Mate on a 31-foot River Patrol Boat.

“Over four decades ago, just weeks after graduating from high school, Guy Arrans put his life on hold in the prime of his youth to enlist in the United States Navy as our nation was at war a half a world away,” said Upton.  “Still a teenager, Mr. Arrans spent day and night along the rivers in Vietnam, often encountering heavy combat.  We are four decades overdue in presenting this much-deserved Bronze Star to Mr. Arrans for his heroic service in Vietnam.  A hero walks among us here in St. Joseph, and we are all grateful for his service and the many sacrifices made by of his brothers in arms. “

According to the citation from the U.S. Navy, Arrans was awarded the Bronze Star:

For heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy as a crewmember and gunner in River Patrol Boat (PBR) River Squadron FIVE in the Mekong Delta of the Republic of Vietnam from 13 August 1966 to 2 August 1967.  During 245 river patrol missions, Petty Officer Arrans encountered numerous enemy firefights while interdicting and neutralizing enemy supply lines, including the capture of hostile enemy watercraft.  Of particular note, during an intense firefight engagement on 1 January 1967 in which the Viet Cong opened fire upon his PBR from an ammunition laden junk.  With heavy automatic fire striking all around his position from only 75 yards away and with total disregard for his own safety, Petty Officer Arrans steadfastly manned his .50 caliber gun position, killing four enemy combatants and capturing the fifth Viet Cong.  More importantly, his quick action and leadership caused the crew to ably seize large quantities of enemy ordnance and ammunition, thereby depriving the enemy access to needed supplies.  His heroic actions during firefights and outstanding combat leadership were inspirational to his boat crew and prevented serious damage to his PBR and undoubtedly saved the lives of many United States Navy Sailors.  By his extraordinary guidance, zealous initiative, and total dedication to duty, Petty Officer Arrans reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest tradition of the United States Naval Service.

A photo of Upton and Mr. Arrans.

Mr. Arrans also provided the attached 2-page narrative detailing his service to our nation .View Document [583 Kb pdf]

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