Royse City, TX – March 29th marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. Royse City ISD takes a moment to remember one of its own, Harry H. Herndon, whose name graces a local school. Herndon's life, though tragically short, stands as a testament to courage, service, and sacrifice.
Born on August 5, 1947, Harry Herndon was a lifelong resident of Royse City. The third of four sons to J.E. (Burr) and Irma Wyatt Herndon, he attended Royse City ISD from kindergarten through his 1965 graduation from Royse City High School. During his formative years, Herndon was a beloved figure, earning the titles of Class Favorite, Wittiest, and Most Popular. He served as a Class Officer and demonstrated his athleticism on the football field as a four-year member of the Royse City Bulldogs.
Following high school, Herndon attended East Texas State University, now East Texas A&M University, and worked for Intercontinental in Garland. He married Virginia Lee Cross on May 29, 1966, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Tena Michelle, on June 15, 1968.
In October 1967, Herndon answered the call to serve his country, being drafted into the Army. He completed basic training at Fort Polk, Louisiana, and then advanced to Fort Benning, Georgia, where he received NCO training, graduating as a Sergeant.
On September 19, 1968, Sergeant Herndon departed Dallas-Love Field Airport for South Vietnam. He was stationed at Chu Lai, serving with the American Division 198th, Company D, as a Platoon Sergeant.
During his service, Herndon earned numerous commendations, including the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnamese Service Medal, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal, and the Marksmanship Medal. He was recognized as an expert in machine gun, automatic rifle, and rifle. Notably, he received the Combat Infantry Badge, signifying his direct engagement with the enemy under hostile fire.
In recognition after his sacrifice, Sergeant Herndon was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for gallantry and wounds received in action. He also received the Bronze Star Medal, one of the nation's highest honors for valor and bravery, for his heroic and meritorious achievements.
Tragically, Sergeant Harry H. Herndon was killed in action on October 18, 1968, at the age of 21. He remains the only fatality from Royse City in the Vietnam War.
On this 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War's conclusion, Royse City solemnly remembers the sacrifices of Sergeant Herndon. The community also extends its thoughts and prayers to all veterans who continue to live with the war's lasting impacts.
