Heroes of the Game ? William Ferguson and Edward Young

Tonight we honor two heroes, Captain William Ferguson and Edward Young.

William Ferguson received the Silver Star for Gallantry in action in connection with an armed hostile force. Captain Ferguson distinguished himself with exceptionally valorous actions while leading a heavy fire team of helicopter gunships near Ranch Gia (Rock Jaw), Vietnam on July 31, 1969. Allied ground troops had been pinned down by heavy enemy fire and he scrambled his fire team to the area. After several rocket runs, he was seriously wounded in the chest. Despite his wounds, however, he refused to withdraw. It was only after all available targets had been eliminated that Captain Ferguson allowed himself to be flown to a hospital.

The courage that he displayed and the complete disregard for his own life were exemplary. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

While in Vietnam, he also received two Purple Hearts, the Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and the Air Medal with “V” for Valor.

Captain Ferguson is retired and lives with his wife in Clover, S.C. He is an IPTAY member and regularly attends Clemson games with his sister Linda and nephew Shawn.

Our second Hero of the Game is Edward Young. A 1941 graduate of Clemson, Young flew 195 combat missions with the 67^th Fighter Squadron in the Air Force. He was awarded the Air Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He has gone on to serve our state as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives and as a member of Congress.

Captain William Ferguson and Edward Young, today’s Heroes of the Game!