Billy Walkabout was born in March 1949 in Cherokee County, Oklahoma, and was born into the Cherokee tribe of Anishanoi, or Blue Holly Clan. He was the son of Warren Walkabout and Bobby Jean Chaudion Walkabout. After graduating in 1968 from U.S. Grant High School in Oklahoma City, Walkabout enlisted in the U.S. Army.

In the Army, Walkabout first served as an infantryman in Vietnam, serving in Company F, 58th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile). He later became a SP4 and distinguished himself with valorous actions on Nov. 20, 1968, when he ambushed an enemy squad on a jungle trail during a long-range reconnaissance patrol southwest of Hue. As a helicopter extraction arrived, the enemy attacked Walkabout and the other men. The soldiers fought back against the enemies and successfully escaped despite injuries.

On the helicopter, he administered first aid to the wounded soldier. When the aircraft received heavy fire, Walkabout distracted the enemy so they concentrated their assault and placed continuous fire on the opposition. A command-detonated mine tore through the team, killing three soldiers and wounding many. While severely hurt from the explosion, Walkabout went to his men and administered lifesaving first aid to the soldiers. He also managed gunship and tactical air strikes on the enemy’s positions.

When the next evacuation helicopters arrived, Walkabout and his fellow soldiers were still under hazardous enemy fire. Despite his injuries, he helped the wounded soldiers to board the aircraft. After the dead soldiers were aboard the helicopter, Walkabout extracted and returned to safety.

During his service, Walkabout received many medals, including the Distinguished Service Cross, five Silver Stars and Five Bronze Stars.  According to the U.S. Department of Defense reports, Walkabout, is believe to be the most decorated Native American soldier of the Vietnam War. 

 He left the Army after reaching the rank of second lieutenant.

BILLY BOB WALKABOUT

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