John F. Connolly
Description
Colonel John Francis Connolly was commissioned an Infantry Officer upon graduation from Officer Candidate School in December 1952, Class Number 4-52. His first duty assignment was as Platoon Leader, D Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Regiment, Fort Dix, New Jersey. | His subsequent duty assignments include: Company Commander, B/2-1 Infantry, RVN; Instructor, USMA, West Point; Aide, MAC-V, RNV; S3 Executive Officer, 1-325 Infantry, 82d Airborne; Battalion Commander, 3-325 Infantry, 82d Airborne; Infantry Branch Chief, MILPERCEN, Washington, D.C; Brigade Commander, 3d Brigade, Fort Ord. | His awards and decorations include: Silver Star w/1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star w/V Device, Bronze Star w/2 Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal w/1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense, Vietnam Palm for Gallantry, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge. | Military schools attended include: IOAC, USMC Command and Staff, Australian Staff College, Army War College.