Briefing Document: Burton Kyle McCord

Subject: Life and Military Service of Burton Kyle McCord

Date: October 26, 2023

Source: "https://hotvetsmem.com/vnwcas/hotvnwhrbios.html#BKM"

1. Overview:

This document outlines the life and military career of Burton Kyle McCord, focusing on his early life, education, military training, and service in the Vietnam War, where he ultimately lost his life.

2. Key Biographical Information:

Birth: Born June 28, 1941, in Brady, McCulloch County, Texas.

Parents:Father: Alonzo Kyle McCord (b. 1904, d. 1971)

Mother: Jimma Lou Favor (b. 1920, d. 2010)

Education:Graduated Valedictorian from Brady High School (Class of 1959)

Graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point (Class of 1963)

3. Military Career:

Commissioned: Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army Armored Division (June 5, 1963).

Initial Assignment: 1st Armored Division at Fort Hood, Texas.

Training:Temporary duty in Europe on the Russian border.

Jungle warfare training in Panama.

Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Special Forces School at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Language School in Monterey, California.

Vietnam Service:Deployed to Vietnam in July 1965 as a First Lieutenant with the Special Forces (Ranger Qualified) Green Berets.

Served as an advisor to a South Vietnamese Army cavalry unit.

Served as an Armored Recon Unit Commander.

4. Vietnam War & Death:

Arrival: Arrived at Da Nang Airfield, South Vietnam, on July 30, 1965.

Role: Advisor to the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnamese Military).

Death: Killed in action on April 14, 1966, while repulsing an enemy attack in his tank. He was killed by a sniper. Province of death not specified.

Posthumous Rank: Promoted to Captain.

5. Awards and Recognition:

Silver Star Medal: Awarded twice for "conspicuous gallantry in action." (one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster indicating a second award).

Bronze Star Medal

Purple Heart Medal.

6. Personal Life:

Marriage: Married Eddie Carol Stone on October 16, 1963, in Memphis.

Children: Michael K. and Tracy S. McCord

7. Burial:

Buried at Arlington National Cemetery on Friday, April 22, 1966.

8. Key Themes and Important Ideas:

Early Success: McCord was a high-achieving student and athlete, demonstrated by his valedictorian status and his athletic involvement, as highlighted by the quote "We played football together, were on the track team together" from a West Point buddy.

Dedicated Military Service: McCord underwent extensive and varied military training, indicating a strong commitment to his role in the Army.

Advisory Role in Vietnam: His role as an advisor to the South Vietnamese military places him at the forefront of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. His training highlights his intended role to take part in active combat despite an advisory position.

Gallantry and Sacrifice: The award of two Silver Stars reflects his bravery and valor, and his death emphasizes the ultimate sacrifice he made in service to his country.

Impact and Remembrance: His burial at Arlington National Cemetery underscores the significance of his life and service.

9. Conclusion:

The text portrays Burton Kyle McCord as a highly accomplished and dedicated individual who served his country with distinction. His early life highlights academic and athletic excellence, and his military career culminates in a courageous and tragic death in the Vietnam War. His story is a testament to the sacrifices made during that conflict.