First Lieutenant

The Silver Star
 

Neauman D. Coleman was born near Holly Grove, Arkansas, September 18, 1945. In 1968, he graduated from Arkansas State University with a B.S. degree in business administration and a commission as a second lieutenant in the artillery branch of the U.S. Army. He attended the Field Artillery Officers Basic Course (FAOBC) at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, was assigned as a tactical officer in the Officer Candidate School Brigade, and was initiated into the Ancient Order of Saint Barbara. In August 1969, he was reassigned to duty in the Republic of South Vietnam, attached to "B" Battery, 2/19th Artillery of the First Air Cavalry Division. Second Lieutenant Coleman served as a forward observer to "A" Company, 2/7th Infantry, Fire Direction Officer, Executive Officer, and Battery Commander of "B" Battery, 2/19th Artillery. During his tour of duty in South Vietnam, he received the following awards: the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars with "V" device, three Purple Hearts, an Air Medal, and an Army Commendation Medal with "V" device. He assumed command of the Battery while on location within Cambodia. Upon leaving the Army, Neauman D. Coleman began a career in agri-business and has served his community and church in diverse positions. He is presently a Vice President of Investments with Dean Witter Reynolds, Inc. in Memphis, Tennessee. Widely known in agriculture as a specialist in rice, his hobbies include raising registered cattle and horses.

On 6 December 1969, while serving as forward observer in Tay Ninh Province Republic of Vietnam, First Lieutenant Coleman distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action. When Company A became engaged with an unknown size enemy force, he immediately began calling in artillery fire on enemy positions. Although wounded, he remained in his forward position in order to call artillery fire to within 75 meters of friendly forces. When a platoon leader was also wounded, First Lieutenant Coleman moved forward, exposing himself to enemy fire, in order to aid the wounded officer. After moving him to safety, Lieutenant Coleman returned to the forward position in order to adjust aerial rocket artillery, directing fire on the enemy while friendly forces withdrew. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.