For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Command and Control North, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. Staff Sergeant Watkins distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions in the early morning hours of 23 August 1968, while at Headquarters, Command and Control North when the compound was attacked by a North Vietnamese Army sapper force in a well-coordinated assault. Despite being wounded in the initial assault, Staff Sergeant Watkins quickly organized a small reaction force to repel the attack and rescue wounded Americans while leading them to a defensive position through a gauntlet of machine gun fire and grenades. Staff Sergeant Watkins disregarded his own safety to direct the recovery of the many wounded men and repeatedly engaged and killed enemy sappers. Despite receiving several more wounds from grenade shrapnel, Staff Sergeant Watkins repeatedly repelled numerous sappers as he continued the search for the wounded. He refused medical aid and on one occasion fiercely charged an onrushing NVA sniper, killing him and preventing the sniper’s continuing infliction of numerous friendly casualties. His actions inspired his men to greater heights to defeat the enemy and successfully defend the compound. Staff Sergeant Watkins extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Pat Watkins recently received his long overdue Distinguished Service Cross in a very moving ceremony at Eglin AFB, Florida. He currently lives with his wife, Carol Jean, in Taylorsville, Utah.