Staff Sergeant
Roy Judkins

SSG Judkins is the highest decorated EOD service member in the Department of Defense. Roy E. Judkins served with distinction in the U. S. Army Ordnance Corps as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Specialist from 1961 until 1978 when back and neck injuries forced him to leave the military. He was honorably discharged from the military with 17 years of outstanding service.

During his distinguished military career, SSG Judkins served in Vietnam with the 184th Ordnance Battalion. He was a member of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team providing direct support to the 173d Airborne Brigade. His most significant contributions to the Ordnance Corps and United States Army came during this tour in 1968 earning him the second highest military decoration, the Distinguished Service Cross and other military awards.

SSG Judkins was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action from 4 December through 8 December 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam. Then Specialist Six Judkins distinguished himself by sustained heroic actions by twice participating in the removal of armed and dangerous explosive ordnance from the extremities of two wounded Republic of Vietnam personnel. He put himself in harms way in order to save their lives.

He was also awarded the Bronze Star for Valor for exceptionally valorous actions on 11 August 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam. Then Specialist Six Judkins distinguished himself by probing his way into an enemy minefield on his hands and knees using only a bayonet to rescue a trapped U.S. patrol. On his first trip he brought out three casualties (two wounded, one KIA) while disarming four mines. He then probed his way back into the minefield and led the remainder of the trapped patrol to safety.

SSG Judkins served honorably until severe back and neck injuries forced him to leave the military. He is currently 100% disabled, 90% of it is service related. His personal courage displayed through his actions in Vietnam and throughout his military career showed complete dedication and unquestionable loyaltyto his country, the U.S. Army and fellow soldiers. SSG Judkins retired from active duty in 1978.