Posted on May 19, 2018
Regarding the RVN Cross of Gallantry with palm award for those of us who served in Vietnam, what is the significance of the "Palm"?
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I researched what I could about the palm but am not satisfied with the loose ends given.
Posted in these groups: 
Vietnam War
Vietnam War
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 3
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It is my understanding that the Gallantry Cross (Vietnamese: Anh Dũng Bội Tinh) came with four appurtenances based on degree of the award. The Palm recognized achievement at the "Armed Forces" level while the Gold, Silver and Bronze Star devices recognized accomplishments at the Corps, Division and Regimental or Brigade levels, respectively. The award could be earned both as a unit award or as an individual award. Some earned both.
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LTC Tom Jones
Thanks, Cpl Gabriel F.. Actually, was awarded both--Palm/unit (MACCORDS) and Bronze Star/individual (Regimental).
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MSgt George Cater
Correct, Colonel. The unit awards were always at the top level, thus the standard appearance of the palm on the unit citation ribbon. Same for the RVNCG Civil Action Award, except it had a 1st and 2nd degree. It was mainly, or maybe only, awarded to USMC units.
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1SG Charles Hunter
MSgt George Cater - US Army 9th Infantry Division also earned the Civil Action unit citation.
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SFC Greg Bruorton
Thank you, LTC Tom Jones , for your elaboration that cleared my mind on the award. I appreciate your input.
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SFC Greg Bruorton My DD-214 lists it as Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Cross of Gallantry w/Palm and Gold frame. I only knew that is was issued by the former government of South Vietnam. I found information about the Australians awarded with this medal.
http://www.defence.gov.au/Medals/Foreign/RVCGPUC.asp
http://www.defence.gov.au/Medals/Foreign/RVCGPUC.asp
Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation : Foreign Awards : Department of...
Department of Defence. Honours and Awards.
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Sgt (Join to see)
LTC John Griscom - I always assumed it was a unit award since "Unit" is in the name.
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CWO2 John Markiewicz
Those of us in the US Navy serving in Danang, Dong Ha & Cau Viet were awarded both as well. Probably in other areas as well.
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To all respondents: Thank you for your replies on the topic given. Your answers have confirmed much of what I learned in my research. In my own scenario, my last DD Form 214 reflects among my awards and decorations: "Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm." It doesn't mention the gold frame.
And, in essence, the "Palm" references the bottom or Armed Forces level of awardees.
Thanks to all for your comments.
And, in essence, the "Palm" references the bottom or Armed Forces level of awardees.
Thanks to all for your comments.
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