About Us

This Gold Star family thanks you for considering a contribution to the RAD Memorial. Our activities are designed to further the legacy of a true American hero, Robert A. Davis. In 2002, several family members met and developed a strategic plan to provide awards through an endowed academic scholarship, later sponsoring a softball team and other fundraising activities that represent Bobby’s character, education, his dedication to family, nature, and the science, art and business of farming.

What is RAD MEMORIAL

The Robert A. Davis (RAD) Memorial is named in honor of “Bobby”, the first from Chester County, Pennsylvania to be fatally wounded in action in Vietnam.  

The Story - Robert A. Davis, “Bobby” a decorated hero

While under continual attack by a larger enemy force, Bobby repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to keep his unit from becoming overrun. He gave his life protecting his comrades, on November 15, 1965, at the age of 25. His battle in the Ia Drang Valley, called “The Valley of Death” in Vietnam, a battle that captured national attention and changed the war.  Bobby received many honors and is noted in both the book, “We Were Soldiers Once….and Young” and the acclaimed film, “We Were Soldiers”. A decorated hero, Bobby received the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star with “V” for Valor, posthumously. His citation for the Bronze Star reads: “This outstanding display of aggressiveness, devotion to duty and personal bravery is in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon Spec. 4 Davis his unit and the United States Army.”

A second brother PFC Blair H. Davis was drafted and serving in Saigon, Vietnam at the same time.  Blair escorted Bobby’s remains back to the states. A third brother was drafted and headed to Vietnam at the same time but through the pleading and appeal of his Gold Star Mother, Viola S. Brown-Davis to then President Lyndon Johnson. She proclaimed, “you will not take another of my sons to a war zone!” As a result, PFC Gilbert M. Davis was diverted to Italy. Our family, Bobby’s friends and those that never met him remember his story.

We thank you for your tax-deductible contribution to RAD Memorial.