NELSON, HUGH REAVIS, JR.
From Knob Knowledge
1937-1966. Captain, U.S.A. Citadel Class of 1959. Died in combat in Vietnam on June 6, 1966, following the crash of his Cobra aircraft in enemy territory. His heroism resulted in the successful evacuation of his men. Despite enemy fire, he continued to help a wounded fellow soldier evacuate the downed aircraft, using his own body as a human shield, until he was mortally wounded. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, posthumously. Other decorations included the Bronze Star (for outstanding meritorious service in ground operations against a hostile force during January-May 1966), Purple Heart, Air Medal, Vietnamese National Order Medal, 5th class, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm. His portrait hangs in the Daniel Library. (Sources: "DSC Awarded Posthumously to Graduate of Citadel," Charleston Evening Post, December 6, 1966, p.2-A; "Capt. Nelson Awarded Posthumously," News and Courier, December 7, 1966, p. 5-C; "Portrait of Citadel Graduate Unveiled," News and Courier, January 27, 1968, p. 12-B; Alumni record, Citadel Records Management Department) (HN & DH)
See also War Deaths - The Citadel.
