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Angelversary: Honoring Capt. Paul “Bud” Bucha, Medal of Honor Recipient and Vietnam War Hero

Retired U.S. Army Captain Paul William “Bud” Bucha, a celebrated Medal of Honor recipient and decorated Vietnam War veteran, passed away on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in West Haven, Connecticut, at the age of 80. His life embodied the highest ideals of leadership, sacrifice, and service—to both his country and his fellow veterans.

Born on August 1, 1943, in Washington, D.C., Bucha was the son of a career Army officer. He spent his formative years excelling in academics and athletics, becoming an All-American swimmer at Ladue Horton Watkins High School in Missouri. His achievements earned him an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated 18th in the Class of 1965, setting the stage for an extraordinary military career.

During the Vietnam War, Bucha commanded Company D, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. From March 16–18, 1968, his unit was engaged in a fierce reconnaissance-in-force mission near Phuoc Vinh in the Binh Duong Province. On March 18, his company was attacked by a heavily armed enemy force.

Facing an intense and sudden assault, Captain Bucha moved to the most vulnerable areas of the battlefield, rallying his men and directing their defenses. As enemy machine-gun fire poured from a fortified bunker, he crawled through open terrain under heavy fire and personally destroyed the position with grenades, despite being wounded by shrapnel. Understanding the tactical disadvantage, he ordered a deliberate withdrawal to a stronger defensive position.

Throughout the night, Bucha repeatedly exposed himself to danger to move among his troops, distribute ammunition, direct air and artillery support, and oversee medical evacuations. Using a flashlight, he guided helicopters to evacuate the wounded—fully visible to enemy snipers—and ensured resupply efforts reached his embattled company. At first light, he led a team to retrieve those killed and wounded during the ambush.

For his extraordinary heroism, Captain Bucha was awarded the Medal of Honor in May 1970. His citation recognized not just battlefield valor, but also the leadership and moral courage that saved lives and inspired his men in the face of overwhelming odds.

After completing his military service in 1972, Bucha transitioned into a successful civilian career that included work in business, veterans’ advocacy, and public affairs. He ran for Congress in 1993 and later served as a foreign policy adviser to President Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential campaign. He remained deeply involved in organizations supporting veterans, focusing on reintegration and care for those who served.

At the time of his passing, Captain Bucha held the distinction of being Connecticut’s only living Medal of Honor recipient. His death was publicly acknowledged by Governor Ned Lamont, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, and Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch. Governor Lamont said, “Paul Bucha is an American hero whose service to our country inspired many, including those who went on themselves to make the selfless decision to enlist in the military. Following his military service, he went on to work with several organizations that provide services to veterans and the military community.”

Bucha spent his later years in Ridgefield, Connecticut, where he remained a respected voice in national discourse on military ethics, leadership, and veterans’ welfare. His lifetime of service extended well beyond the battlefield and left a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

On this angelversary, the legacy of Capt. Paul “Bud” Bucha is remembered with reverence. His courage under fire, commitment to his men, and dedication to the nation will forever stand as a model of selfless service. His story continues to inspire generations of Americans and reminds us of the extraordinary individuals who fight not for glory, but for the lives beside them and the country behind them.