Drew Dennis Dix: The Unbreakable Spirit of a Warrior

Early Life and Struggles: Born on December 14, 1944, in West Point, New York, Drew Dennis Dix was raised in Pueblo, Colorado. He attended and graduated from Centennial High School, growing up with a deep sense of duty and responsibility. His early years were marked by a determination to serve his country, despite facing obstacles along the way. His dream of joining the military led him to enlist at the young age of 18, a decision that would ultimately shape his future.

Military Enlistment and Heroics: Dix enlisted in the United States Army in 1962, aspiring to become a part of the elite Special Forces. Initially rejected due to his age, he spent three years serving with the 82nd Airborne Division, gaining valuable experience. His persistence paid off when, at 21, he was finally accepted into the Special Forces. During his service, he participated in Operation Power Pack, the U.S. military intervention in the Dominican Republic.

By 1968, Dix had risen to the rank of staff sergeant and was assigned as a military adviser to the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) in Chau Phu, South Vietnam. It was here that he would cement his legacy during one of the most intense battles of the Vietnam War—the Tet Offensive.

Defining Moment: On January 31, 1968, as the Tet Offensive erupted, Chau Phu came under attack by two heavily armed Viet Cong battalions. Amidst the chaos, Dix fearlessly led groups of local fighters in rescuing endangered civilians and reclaiming key buildings from enemy forces. Over two harrowing days, he saved numerous lives, killed or captured several enemy combatants, and personally led an offensive to regain control of the city.

His most notable achievements included rescuing an American nurse trapped in a besieged house, saving eight civilians under heavy mortar and small-arms fire, and single-handedly assaulting a building to eliminate Viet Cong forces and rescue two Filipinos. He later assembled a 20-man force to clear out enemy fighters from the city’s buildings, capturing 20 prisoners, including a high-ranking Viet Cong officer. His selfless actions directly contributed to the liberation of Chau Phu and the protection of its people.

For his extraordinary bravery, Dix was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Lyndon B. Johnson on January 19, 1969. He became one of four Medal of Honor recipients from Pueblo, Colorado, a city recognized as the "Home of Heroes."

Post-War Life and Career: Following his heroic actions in Vietnam, Dix received a direct commission to first lieutenant and continued his military career, eventually retiring as a major after 20 years of service. His final assignment was as Executive Officer of the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, from 1981 to 1982.

After retiring from the Army, Dix transitioned into various roles, including working as a security consultant and operating an air service in Alaska. He also served as Alaska's deputy commissioner for homeland security. In 2000, he chronicled his Vietnam War experiences in his memoir, The Rescue of River City.

Further solidifying his commitment to patriotism and American values, Dix co-founded the Center for American Values in Pueblo, Colorado, in 2010. He has since continued to inspire others through public speaking engagements and advocacy for military service members.

Military Awards and Decorations: Drew Dennis Dix’s gallantry and service have been recognized with numerous military honors, including:

Drew Dennis Dix exemplifies the true essence of valor, resilience, and service. His unwavering dedication to protecting others, even at great personal risk, has left an indelible mark on military history. His legacy serves as an inspiration to all who value courage, selflessness, and patriotism. Whether through his heroic actions in Vietnam, his continued service to his country, or his efforts in preserving American values, Dix remains a symbol of true heroism.