David Hackworth, American colonel and journalist (b. 1930)

David Haskell Hackworth (November 11, 1930 – May 4, 2005), widely known as "Hack," was a figure of considerable importance in 20th-century American military history, a highly decorated combat veteran who later transitioned into a prominent voice in military journalism. His life was deeply intertwined with the United States Army, where he rose through the ranks to achieve the distinction of a colonel, earning numerous commendations for his service in two major conflicts: the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

A Distinguished Military Career and the Genesis of Tiger Force

Hackworth's combat experience was both extensive and legendary. His bravery and leadership during the Korean War and subsequently in Vietnam cemented his reputation as a formidable soldier. During the intense and often unconventional fighting of the Vietnam War, he played a pivotal role in the creation and command of a specialized military unit known as "Tiger Force." This unit, operating in the challenging and often elusive battlegrounds of South Vietnam, was conceived with a distinct mission: to actively engage Viet Cong guerrilla fighters by employing their own tactics. Tiger Force aimed to counter the elusive enemy by adopting highly adaptable, aggressive, and small-unit guerrilla warfare techniques, a significant departure from conventional military doctrine. This innovative approach sought to turn the tables on the enemy in their familiar environment, highlighting Hackworth's strategic thinking and willingness to challenge established norms.

From Soldier to Scrutiny: The Boorda Controversy

Following his distinguished, albeit often maverick, military career, Hackworth became a vocal critic of military leadership and policies, particularly in the post-Vietnam era. His transition to military journalism positioned him as a fierce advocate for the common soldier and a relentless exposer of perceived institutional failures. It was in this capacity that he became embroiled in one of the most significant controversies of the mid-1990s. In 1996, Hackworth brought a grave accusation against Admiral Mike Boorda, who at the time served as the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), the highest-ranking officer in the U.S. Navy. Hackworth alleged that Admiral Boorda was improperly wearing two unauthorized "valor devices" on two of his service ribbons. These devices, specifically the "V" (for valor) or other combat distinguishing devices, are small insignias attached to certain awards to indicate direct participation in combat or actions involving heroism in direct conflict with an enemy. For military personnel, the correct wear of decorations and awards is not merely a matter of regulation; it is a profound matter of honor, tradition, and strict adherence to established protocols. Admiral Boorda had indeed served off the coast of Vietnam in the 1960s and genuinely believed he was authorized to wear these particular wartime decorations, interpreting his meritorious service in a combat zone as justification. However, the Navy's stringent requirements for these specific valor devices mandated direct engagement with the enemy, a criterion that his service, though commendable and vital, did not explicitly meet for those particular valor-specific insignia. The ensuing public scrutiny and intense media attention created immense pressure on Admiral Boorda. Tragically, he committed suicide during the course of Hackworth's investigation, a deeply shocking event that sent ripples of grief and reflection throughout the entire military establishment.

Hackworth's Own Record Under Scrutiny

The controversy surrounding Admiral Boorda took an unexpected turn in 1997 when Hackworth himself faced scrutiny regarding his own military record. It was revealed that he had claimed to have earned two Distinguished Flying Cross medals, a prestigious award given for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. However, official records indicated he had earned only one. Furthermore, he had claimed entitlement to wear a Ranger tab, a distinctive shoulder insignia signifying completion of the grueling U.S. Army Ranger School, which is awarded only to graduates of the demanding program. It was determined that he was not, in fact, entitled to wear this insignia. These revelations presented a complex paradox, as the very individual who had championed integrity and strict adherence to protocol in military decorations was found to have discrepancies in his own claims, underscoring the delicate nature of military honors and personal integrity.

Legacy of a Complex Figure

David Hackworth's legacy remains multifaceted and complex. He was undoubtedly a courageous and highly decorated combat veteran, an innovator in guerrilla warfare tactics, and a passionate, often outspoken, advocate for military reform and accountability. Yet, his later career was marked by the intense controversies he ignited and the subsequent questions raised about the accuracy of his own military record, leaving behind a nuanced narrative of a dedicated, though ultimately flawed, military icon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was David H. Hackworth?

David Haskell Hackworth was a decorated United States Army colonel who served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He later became a prominent military journalist and critic, known for his outspoken views on military affairs. He passed away on May 4, 2005.

What was Tiger Force?

Tiger Force was a specialized military unit formed in South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. David Hackworth played a key role in its creation and command. Its primary mission was to engage Viet Cong guerrilla fighters using their own guerrilla warfare tactics, aiming to be highly adaptable and aggressive in the field.

What was Hackworth's role in the Admiral Mike Boorda controversy?

In 1996, Hackworth publicly accused Admiral Mike Boorda, then the Chief of Naval Operations, of wearing two unauthorized valor devices on his service ribbons. This accusation led to intense scrutiny and media attention, and Admiral Boorda tragically committed suicide during Hackworth's investigation.

Why were the service ribbon devices an issue for Admiral Boorda?

Admiral Boorda had served off the coast of Vietnam and believed he was authorized to wear the devices, which signify valor in combat, for his meritorious service in a combat zone. However, the Navy's specific requirements for these valor devices often necessitated direct combat engagement, which his service, though significant, did not explicitly meet for those particular insignia.

What discrepancies were found in Hackworth's own military record?

In 1997, it was revealed that Hackworth had claimed to have earned two Distinguished Flying Cross medals when official records indicated he had earned only one. Additionally, he claimed entitlement to wear a Ranger tab, an insignia for graduates of the U.S. Army Ranger School, despite not being officially entitled to it.