Page 13 - Lt. Col. Wandke

WANDKE

had arrived in huge numbers and began to place tremendous

firepower on the company’s perimeter. Despite the devastating

artillery fire directed on the enemy positions, Captain Wandke’s unit

sustained heavy casualties. As soon as Captain Wandke rallied his

men to force the enemy to break off their assault temporarily, he

directed every man who was able to withdraw from the area to

establish a landing zone for evacuating the wounded. Although

wounded himself, Captain Wandke alone stayed behind to protect the

dead and critically wounded. For three harrowing hours he directed

artillery fire on hostile emplacements and with his individual weapon

prevented the enemy from overrunning his position. Captain

Wandke’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in

keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect

great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

LTC. Wandke was the Legion of Valor National Commander

1994-1995. He was also the Chaplain for a number of years and

resides in Southern California.

Branch: Army

Citation: Distinguished Service Cross

War: Vietnam War 1962-1975