Press Releases

West Seneca Resident Served in the U.S Army During the Vietnam War

PFC Gang, A South Buffalo Native, Served in the 17th Cavalry Regiment of the 199th Infantry Brigade and was Wounded in Battle in February 1968

BUFFALO, N.Y. - During a ceremony in front of the Purple Heart Monument at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) presented United States Army veteran Allen Gang with the Purple Heart medal as well as additional military service medals earned by the Town of West Seneca resident while serving in the Vietnam War. 

“With bravery and commitment, Allen Gang served this nation, leaving an indelible mark on history contributing to the freedoms we enjoy today,” said Congressman Kennedy. “We honor his sacrifices and salute his exceptional military service.”

Allen Gang, the youngest of eleven children born to Lucy and Charles Gang, attended South Park High School in Buffalo before entering the United States Army at the age of 19. He came from a family with deep roots in military service.  His father Charles served during WWI, his brothers Charles, Vern and Clifford served in WWII, his brother Richard was a member of the United States Air Force, and several of his nephews served during the Vietnam War era as well. 

Private First Class (PFC) Gang left Buffalo Central Terminal on his journey to Fort Dix for basic training and underwent advanced infantry training at Fort Campbell. Initially stationed at the United States Army Overseas Replacement Station in Oakland, California, PFC Gang was later deployed to Vietnam, assigned to the Transportation Detachment and served in the 17th Cavalry Regiment of the 199th Infantry Brigade. He served overseas with the 199^th, known for its participation in Vietnam combat operations, for over a year before suffering an injury in combat on February 2, 1968. After returning to the U.S., PFC Gang married his wife Kitty, and together they raised 6 children. 

For his sacrifice and service, over 56 years ago, Congressman Kennedy presented Private First Class Allen Gang with the Purple Heart medal, awarded to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military.  In addition, PFC Gang earned the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge (1st Award), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device, Sharpshooter Badge with Machine Gun Bar, and the Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar.

Rep. Kennedy also presented the PFC Gang with a Vietnam War Commemorative Anniversary Pin, a flag flown over the United States Capitol, and entered the veteran into the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor.  

Veterans and military families in need of assistance with benefits or military service medals are encouraged to contact Congressman Kennedy’s office at 716-852-3501.

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