Calvin Chambers, Specialist, United States Army

Calvin Chambers, Specialist, United States ArmyCalvin Chambers enlisted in the Army in August 1969. While deployed to Vietnam, SPC Chambers was stationed at FSB Buttons and spent time in Cambodia. On May 25, 1970, Chambers unit had just been resupplied and the platoon was directed to take the perimeter around the top of the hill. Chambers was walking right point (lead) when the platoon walked into an ambush halfway up the hill. The ensuing firefight took the lives of Chambers’ squad leader and left point man, and left Chambers wounded.

In addition to his Purple Heart, Chambers received numerous commendations and awards, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with “V” device and more.

After being discharged from the Army, Chambers continued to serve veterans working nearly three decades at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center and serving as the Commander for the Military Order of the Purple Heart – Chapter 460 in Fayetteville.

SPC Chambers was nominated for the recognition during the 2021 Purple Heart Patriot Project Mission by Ralph “Carder” Ferguson, the 2019 Purple Heart Patriot Project representative for Arkansas and the Commander for the Military Order of the Purple Heart Department of Arkansas.

Regrettably, Mr. Chambers passed away prior to the event. His widow Lyla Chambers, attended on his behalf.