The Greatest Hero America Never Knew
David Feherty, a 17-year resident of Dallas and an Irishman by birth, became a U.S. citizen due to his involvement with the Troops First Foundation, which helps severely wounded servicemen and women. Feherty was inspired to share the story of an extraordinary but largely unrecognized American hero—Colonel Robert Howard, a highly decorated soldier whose actions during the Vietnam War earned him two Distinguished Service Crosses, a Silver Star, multiple Bronze Stars, and eight Purple Hearts. Despite his heroic efforts, Howard received little recognition outside the military.
Howard’s bravery in Laos and Cambodia, often classified, is largely unknown, though his numerous nominations for the Medal of Honor make his legacy clear. Despite being awarded the Medal of Honor in 1971 by President Nixon, Howard’s story remained overshadowed due to the public’s negative perception of the Vietnam War. While figures like Audie Murphy and Alvin York received widespread fame, Howard’s achievements went largely uncelebrated. His passing in 2009 at the age of 70 was met with minimal media coverage, including brief obituaries from major outlets. Feherty, deeply moved, felt compelled to share Howard’s story with the world.
