SGM Tyrone J. Adderly

Tyrone J. Adderly's military career is a remarkable journey of dedication, bravery, and service. Enlisting as a U.S. Army Infantryman in 1961, he quickly demonstrated his commitment to excellence. After completing basic training and Airborne School, he became a part of the esteemed 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

In 1965, Sergeant Adderly embarked on his first deployment, serving as a Fire Team Leader with the 504th Infantry during Operation POWER PACK in the Dominican Republic. His skills and leadership were further tested in 1966 when he served as a Squad Leader with the 502nd Infantry in the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. Wounded near Dak To, Adderly's valor earned him the Silver Star.

Eager to enhance his expertise, Staff Sergeant Adderly graduated from the Special Forces (SF) Weapons Course in 1968. He returned to Vietnam to serve with the 5th Special Forces Group (SFG), showcasing his proficiency and dedication to specialized operations.

Sergeant First Class (SFC) Adderly's commitment to duty was exemplified in 1969 when he volunteered for the Son Tay Raid, codenamed IVORY COAST. This daring mission aimed to free American Prisoners of War (POWs) held in North Vietnam. Although the raid did not achieve its primary objective due to the relocation of the POWs, it demonstrated America's capability to operate in North Vietnam and subsequently led to improvements in POW conditions.

SFC Adderly's heroism during the Son Tay Raid earned him the Distinguished Service Cross. His illustrious career continued with service in the 6th and 5th SFGs, culminating in his promotion to Master Sergeant. Further assignments took him to Korea, where his leadership continued to make a significant impact. Rising to the rank of Sergeant Major, he accepted an ROTC position before retiring from active duty in July 1988.

A decade later, SGM Adderly returned to the Special Forces Qualification Course to support Exercise Robin Sage. In this capacity, he served as a guerrilla chief, mentor, and advisor to today's soldiers, demonstrating his enduring commitment to the Special Forces community and the development of future military leaders.