First Lieutenant
The Silver Star
Arthur B. Cool, Jr. was born, 26 November 1947 in Caruthersville, Missouri. In 1965, he graduated from Caruthersville High School. He graduated from Arkansas State University in 1970 with a B.S. in business administration and a ROTC commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. His period of service lasted from 1970 to 1973. During which time, he completed Army Helicopter Aviation school in 1971 and did a tour in Vietnam from 1971 to 1972. Lieutenant Cook’s awards and honors include the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Army Aviation Badge. He received an honorable discharge from the Army, 10 September 1973. He is presently Right of Way Supervisor for Doyle Land Services, Inc. on a gas transport line.
On 28 April 1972, First Lieutenant Arthur B. Cook, Jr. distinguished himself while serving as pilot of a rescue helicopter. Lieutenant Cook’s aircraft accepted a single ship rescue mission to extract American advisors from Quang Tri City. During the course of the mission, his aircraft flew over enemy held territory occupied by a regimental size NVA force equipped with anti-aircraft emplacements. As the helicopter maneuvered into position for the recovery of the Americans, they became the target of intense hostile fire. During the mission the objective area was subjected to an intense barrage of NVA artillery. Without hesitation Lieutenant Cook maneuvered his aircraft into position to engage enemy positions with maximum utilization of his available weapons. With disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Cook repeatedly placed accurate fire on enemy positions. As a result of his actions the unsupported helicopter was able to successfully complete the extraction from Quang Tri City. First Lieutenant Cook’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
