#United States #SIG SAUER #Medal of Honor #Larry Taylor #Newington

Captain Larry L. Taylor Tribute at SIG SAUER Experience Center Museum

On July 11, 2025, the SIG SAUER Experience Center Museum unveiled a remarkable tribute display honoring Captain Larry L. Taylor, a Medal of Honor recipient and decorated Army aviator. The ceremony celebrated Captain Taylor's lifetime of courageous service, which included flying combat missions during the Vietnam War. The display is set to be showcased for one year before making its way to the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center.

Captain Taylor served bravely with D Troop (Air), 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 1st Infantry Division, operating the Bell AH-1G Cobra attack helicopters during the Vietnam War from August 1967 to August 1968. He logged over 2,000 combat missions, bravely facing enemy fire 340 times, and was forced down in combat on five separate occasions. His efforts earned him numerous accolades from the U.S. Army, including the Silver Star, 43 Air Medals, a Bronze Star, and two Distinguished Flying Crosses. His valor was recognized by the Vietnamese government as well when he was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Bronze Star.

One of Captain Taylor's most notable missions occurred on June 18, 1968, when he and his crew were called to rescue a four-man Long-Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) team trapped by a large enemy force northeast of Saigon. Faced with overwhelming odds and a failing supply of ammunition, Taylor and his co-pilot, J.O. Ratliff, courageously defied direct orders and landed their Cobra helicopter under intense fire. They managed to evacuate the LRRP team, demonstrating Taylor's unwavering commitment to the creed “No man left behind.” For this exceptional act of bravery, he was awarded the Silver Star, which President Joe Biden upgraded to the Medal of Honor in 2023.

During the unveiling of the tribute display, SIG SAUER had the honor of hosting Sgt. David Hill and CW02 J.O. Ratliff, who played vital roles in that fateful mission. The display, which commemorates Captain Taylor's extraordinary legacy, includes several unique items such as his Medal of Honor and issuing certificate, his flight helmet and summer flying gloves, and a 1/35 scale diorama depicting the mission's critical extraction. Additionally, several photographs donated by his fellow comrades enhance the historical significance of the display.

One of the exceptional highlights of the tribute is a custom SIG SAUER Commemorative M17 pistol, handcrafted in collaboration with SIG SAUER Custom Works, dedicated to Captain Taylor’s honor. This pistol, along with similar commemorative pieces for each surviving Medal of Honor recipient, reflects the respect and gratitude that SIG SAUER holds for the commitment and sacrifices made by veterans.

As SIG SAUER continues to honor extraordinary stories like Captain Taylor’s, they express their gratitude to the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and others who contributed to sharing his inspiring narrative. For those who wish to delve deeper into Captain Taylor's story, a moving video tribute and detailed biographies are available through various online platforms, including the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center website.

In conclusion, Captain Larry L. Taylor's prestigious legacy serves as a reminder of courage, sacrifice, and dedication in the face of adversity, making this tribute at the SIG SAUER Experience Center Museum essential for both history enthusiasts and those wanting to honor true American heroes. To learn more about SIG SAUER and its products, visit www.SigSauer.com.