As we commemorate the birthday of Retired Army Capt. Paul “Bud” Bucha on August 1, we remember a man whose life was defined by extraordinary bravery and selfless service. Born in Washington, D.C., in 1943, Bucha’s remarkable journey led him to become a Medal of Honor recipient and an enduring symbol of heroism.
Paul Bucha, the son of an Army officer, was an All-American swimmer at Ladue Horton Watkins High School before being selected for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York. Graduating 18th in his class in 1965, he embarked on a military career that would earn him the nation’s highest military honor.
The Medal of Honor was awarded to Bucha in May 1970 for his heroic actions during a reconnaissance-in-force mission in Vietnam from March 16-18, 1968. As the commanding officer of Company D near Phuoc Vinh in the Binh Duong province, Capt. Bucha faced an overwhelming enemy assault on March 18. Demonstrating complete disregard for his own safety, he moved to the most threatened area to direct the defense, ordering reinforcements to support the lead element. When his men were pinned down by heavy machine gun fire from a concealed bunker, Bucha crawled through intense fire to single-handedly destroy the bunker with grenades, despite sustaining a shrapnel wound.
Realizing that his unit could not hold their positions against the enemy assault, Bucha ordered a strategic withdrawal to a more defensible location. Throughout the night, he continued to inspire and encourage his men, distributing ammunition, and directing artillery and helicopter gunship fire. In complete view of enemy snipers, he used flashlights to oversee the medical evacuation of three air-ambulance loads of seriously wounded personnel and to coordinate the resupply of his company. At daybreak, he led a rescue party to recover the dead and wounded members of his ambushed force.
After leaving the Army in 1972, Bucha became a prominent figure in business, veterans support organizations, and politics. He ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 1993 but later served as a foreign policy adviser for former President Barack Obama during his 2008 presidential campaign.
Gov. Ned Lamont, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, and Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch recognized Bucha’s passing, noting that until his death on July 31, 2024, he was Connecticut’s only living Medal of Honor recipient. Gov. Lamont stated, “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’s legacy is one of extraordinary valor and unwavering commitment to his country. His actions during the Vietnam War exemplify the highest ideals of military service and sacrifice. As a resident of Ridgefield, Connecticut, he continued to inspire and support the military community throughout his life.
On this August 1, we honor Retired Army Capt. Paul “Bud” Bucha’s life and legacy, reflecting on the courage, dedication, and sacrifice that defined his service. His story is a testament to the profound impact one individual can have, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations and remind us all of the true costs of our freedoms.
