Briefing Document: Bobby Weldon Letbetter

Subject: Life and Military Service of Bobby Weldon Letbetter

Date: October 26, 2023

Sources:

Excerpts from biographical text on Bobby Weldon Letbetter

Excerpts from a citation for the Silver Star awarded to Bobby Weldon Letbetter.

I. Overview

This briefing document outlines the key details of the life and military service of Bobby Weldon Letbetter, focusing on his early life, his distinguished military career, and his tragic death in Vietnam. The sources provide a biographical overview, detail his military service, and honor his sacrifice with a posthumous Silver Star.

II. Key Themes and Facts

Early Life and Background:Born on September 19, 1934, in Mills County, Texas.

Parents: Vera Alyne Slider and Henry Carlton Letbetter.

Raised in Mills County, Texas.

Graduated from Goldthwaite High School in 1953.

Attended Texas Tech University.

Military Service:Joined the Army in December 1954.

Basic training at Ft. Bliss, El Paso, Texas.

Assigned to the 11th Airborne Division at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, in June 1955.

Graduated from Airborne Parachute Rigger School at Ft. Lee, Virginia, in November 1955.

Transferred to Augsburg, Germany in March 1956 with his wife.

Served as a member of the Golden Knights Parachute Team at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.

Participated in world competition with the Golden Knights, setting 93 world records in March and April 1965 in Lincoln, California.

Qualified as a Light Weapons Infantryman (Airborne).

Deployed to Vietnam in October 1966.

Vietnam Service and Death:Rank: Sergeant First Class (SFC).

Unit: 3rd Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, Infantry, 1st Cavalry Division AirMobile.

Tour began on October 20, 1966.

Killed in action on November 21, 1966, in Pleiku Province, South Vietnam.

Died from a gunshot wound from an enemy small arms weapon during an ambush while on a recon patrol heading towards a command post.

Buried in Arlington National Cemetery on December 2, 1966.

Awards and Recognition:Posthumously awarded the Silver Star.

The Silver Star Citation states: "The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class Bobby Weldon Letbetter (asn-54148152) US Army A Company 1st Aviation Battalion 1st Infantry Division and Rotary Wing Unit Commander for his gallantry in action in the Pleiku Province, South Vietnam Nov 1966 when he was killed in the action."

Also awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Purple Heart.

Legacy:Remembered as a dedicated soldier who served with "utmost loyalty and sacrifice" and as an "ambassador to the world" as a Golden Knight team member.

The Golden Knights honored him on "The Wall of Faces" webpage.

III. Key Quotes

"Not only did Bobby serve his country with the utmost loyalty & sacrifice, he also served as an ambassador to the world, as a member of the United States Army Parachute Team 'Golden Knights.'" - From a remembrance on The Wall of Faces webpage.

"The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class Bobby Weldon Letbetter (asn-54148152) US Army A Company 1st Aviation Battalion 1st Infantry Division and Rotary Wing Unit Commander for his gallantry in action in the Pleiku Province, South Vietnam Nov 1966 when he was killed in the action." - Silver Star Citation

IV. Analysis

The sources paint a picture of a highly dedicated and accomplished soldier. Bobby Weldon Letbetter had a distinguished career, showcasing both skill and bravery, from his participation in world record-setting parachute feats with the Golden Knights to his infantry service in Vietnam. His death while on active duty is a tragic loss, and his bravery and sacrifice were recognized with the Silver Star and other honors. The sources demonstrate a profound dedication to service, excellence and country.

V. Conclusion

Bobby Weldon Letbetter led a life marked by dedication, service, and bravery. From his early life in Texas to his service in Vietnam, he consistently pursued excellence and gave his life in service to his country. The sources provide a somber yet compelling account of a soldier who was both a world-class athlete and a selfless warrior. His story is one of courage, sacrifice, and commitment to duty.