US Mountain Ranger Association

SFC Paul Herman Villarosa was born on Sept 7, 1928. He served 4 years in the US Navy. During the Korea Conflict he received a Presidential Citation for having sent and received messages under fire. After a brief period of civilian life, Paul answered the call to duty again and in 1960 and joined the US Army. After Basic, AIT and Airborne school , he volunteered for the Green Berets US Army Special Forces. He was assigned to Ft Bragg NC where he finished his selection process training and completed his Radio MOS training and was assigned to Train Green Berets as a member of the US Army Special Forces Training Group. He was a Legend at Ft Bragg, said to be able to copy 20 words a minute in each ear. He completed Ranger school in 1964 and later that year served is first tour of Vietnam as an advisor and member of a Special Forces A Team. He returned back to Ft Bragg and resumed his superior knowledge of sending code and teaching Green Berets. In 1967, Paul Volunteered again for Vietnam. This was his 3rd Tour. He was assigned to CCN Special Operations Group 5th Special Forces FOB4 Recon Tm leader "Intruder." He was KIA on Jan 4, 1968 in Laos while on a long range reconnaissance patrol. He was awarded the Nations 2nd highest award (Distinguished Service Cross).

The Citation is as follows:
For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the republic of Vietnam: SFC Villarosa distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 4 January 1968 while leading a Special Forces long range reconnaissance patrol on a mission in enemy controlled territory. As his team moved through the jungle, it became apparent to him that an enemy force was attempting to flank his team. SFC Villarosa halted his team and was preparing to establish communications with HQ when the hidden hostile force ordered his men to throw down their weapons and surrender. Acting quickly, he directed his men to withdraw to more defensible positions while he remained behind to cover their movement. The enemy launched a vicious assault using automatic weapons, grenades and a flamethrower, but SFC Villarosa stood his ground despite the savage fusillade and delivered withering fire on the advancing insurgents which slowed their progress and allowed his men to set up secure defensive perimeter. He was mortally wounded while gallantly and selflessly defending his fellow soldiers in the heat of battle. SFC Villarosa extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the coast of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military services and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

SFC Villarosa's widow Louise Villarosa resides in Dahlonega, GA, as does her son Thomas Joyner, who was a past Instructor here at the Mountain Ranger Camp.

Respectfully submitted: Thomas Joyner