By Corey Cole
Mr. Paul Roux was honored as our Hometown Hero on Friday, Jan. 13, vs. Comanche.
On behalf of Sulphur Public Schools we would like to introduce and honor one of our Hometown Heroes. Vietnam Veteran – Mr. Paul Roux
Paul is escorted by four very special young ladies in his life. They exemplify the very best of what Sulphur High School has to offer: Savannah Ashford, Kady Lynch, Skyler Mize, and Jada Phelps.
Paul Roux graduated high school in June 1967. Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. Paul completed his basic training in South Carolina, infantry training in North Carolina, and jungle training at Camp Pendelton in California, then it was off to Vietnam.
After arriving in Da Nang, Paul was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines better known as “the Walking Dead.” During the Tet offensive in 1968, Paul was caught in the provencial capital of Hue. Being badly outnumbered by the enemy, it resulted in hand-to-hand combat. It was there Paul was first wounded by a mortar round in an attempt to save another Marine’s life.
Paul healed up and signed on for a second tour of duty, it was in this tour that Paul was wounded a second time. He recalls a horrific memory of having his best friend die in his arms – a memory that Paul says haunts him to this very day.
After 26 months in Vietnam, Paul returned home to finish out his time at Camp Lezeune.
Paul was awarded and approved to wear:
• The Vietnam Service Ribbon
• The Marine Corps Medal of Valor
• Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with six Stars
• The Good Conduct Medal
• The Bronze Star for Valor in Combat
• The National Defense Service Medal
• Two Purple Hearts
• Expert Rifle Badge with six flags
• The Presidential Unit Citation
• Expert Pistol Badge with six Flags
Paul wants to thank Sulphur Public Schools for this great honor. OOH-RA, SEMPER FI!!