A year later, on March 6th, he was sent on a daring reconnaissance mission near Phuoc Vinh.
There, Captain Bucha and his company of 89 men faced a relentless onslaught from an overwhelming enemy force of North Vietnamese.
With unparalleled courage, he led his men through a hail of bullets, single-handedly destroying an enemy bunker and directing artillery fire with surgical precision.
His unwavering determination to protect his soldiers and accomplish the mission epitomized the highest standards of military service.
Receiving the Highest Honors
Bucha’s tour of duty in Vietnam concluded in April 1970, and he returned to his alma mater, West Point, to impart his knowledge as a Political Science professor.
It was during this period that the full weight of his heroism in the face of overwhelming odds sank in.
News of his extraordinary actions near Phuoc Vinh had rippled through the ranks, culminating in the highest honor bestowed upon a soldier: the Medal of Honor.
A mere month after returning home, President Richard Nixon presented Bucha with the nation’s most prestigious military decoration, a testament to his unparalleled courage and leadership.
During the presentation ceremony at the White House on May 14th, 1970, Bucha said,
“The medal that I wear, I wear on behalf of others, not myself.”
This highlights his profound sense of humility and leadership, seeing the prestigious award not as a personal accolade but as a symbol of courage and sacrifice for his entire unit.
Below is an excerpt from his Medal of Honor citation:
“[…] Captain Bucha, by his extraordinary heroism, inspirational example, outstanding leadership, and professional competence, led his company in the decimation of a superior enemy force, which left 156 dead on the battlefield…”
A Life of Service Continued
Beyond his battlefield exploits, Bucha was a dedicated public servant. He served as President of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and actively engaged in veterans’ causes and politics.
His life was a testament to the indomitable spirit of the American soldier and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
SOFREP extends its deepest condolences to the Bucha family during this difficult time. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia, and four children.
With the passing of Captain Bucha, the number of living Medal of Honor recipients now stands at 60.
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