Claude Quick, Jr.

In 1965, as a 17-year old eager to serve his country, now retired Sergeant Claude Quick, Jr. of Middletown, New York, journeyed to Hawaii and then to Vietnam. There, he began an experience that would forever change him and affect the lives of his fellow infantrymen.

Nearly forty-eight years ago this week, while serving as a medical aidman attached to a rifle company on a search and destroy mission on May 19, 1966, then-Specialist Five Quick and his company encountered intense enemy fire from automatic weapons concealed in the thick jungle foliage. Although he was among the wounded, Mr. Quick was credited with saving several lives that day and aiding other injured soldiers at his own risk.

In 2004, Mr. Quick was fi nally formally recognized for his extraordinary heroism on that day in May, 1966. President Bush presented him with the Distinguished Service Cross for his efforts during military operations against a hostile force in Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry (the Wolf Hounds), 25th Infantry Division. His outstanding display of aggressiveness, devotion to duty and personal bravery – at the risk to his own life – was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service.

Mr. Quick still serves as a member of the board of directors for the Legion of Valor and has also remained active with the DAV, the American Legion, Purple Heart Association and the VFW.

Mr. Quick has received numerous awards including the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal and Bronze Star with V-Device, making him the most decorated Vietnam veteran in Oneida County.

He lives in the Town of Florence with his wife, Gail, with whom he has two children – Peter and Michelle – as well as four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.