Honoring David Grissom: A Veteran’s Legacy of Service and Leadership

David William Grissom, a former Specialist (E-5) in the United States Army, was inducted into the Cullman Veterans Hall of Fame for his exemplary military service and significant contributions to his community. His journey began on February 14, 1968, when he was drafted into the Army and completed his basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, specializing as a Radio Operator and Communication Technician.

Grissom’s deployment to Vietnam in July 1968 marked a turning point in his military career. After just two weeks of in-country Ranger training, he was reassigned to an Infantry Ranger role with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Rangers. His first experience in combat came during the Battle of Loc Ninh, a significant engagement in which General Keith Ware, a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, lost his life.

Distinguished Military Achievements

Throughout his service, Grissom completed an impressive 74 combat insertions, earning the Air Medal for his bravery and resilience. During the Mekong Delta campaign, he collaborated with Navy Riverine forces, receiving the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantryman Badge for his contributions. Grissom sustained injuries from a mortar blast in the Plain of Reeds, which earned him the Purple Heart.

After recovering, he was assigned to the Tactical Operations Command, where he awaited top-secret clearance for a transfer into military intelligence. Once cleared, he served with the 9th Military Intelligence Division, engaging in surveillance operations along the Cambodian border. His bravery was further evident when he and his unit were overrun in the village of Thu Thua, where they destroyed sensitive equipment before being rescued by helicopter. Remarkably, Grissom returned to the area the next day to restore operations.

Upon concluding his service in Vietnam, Grissom was one of the “First 500” soldiers to return home, participating in a welcome parade for returning veterans in Tacoma, Washington. He completed his military career at Fort Hood, Texas, with several commendations, including the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

A Legacy of Community Service

After his honorable discharge, Grissom returned to Cullman and resumed work at the Bendix Westinghouse factory. In 1971, he transitioned to law enforcement, joining the State of Alabama Narcotics Investigation team as an undercover investigator. His dedication to public service continued with the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department and the Decatur Police Department, where he was recognized as Alabama’s Young Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in 1974.

Grissom is a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and the American Legion. He actively assists fellow veterans and their families in securing benefits and provides transportation to medical appointments. Grissom also advocates for veterans’ needs by engaging with local officials, including Congressman Robert Aderholt.

His community involvement extends to membership in the Cullman County Republican Party, where he has served since 1980, and as a lifelong member of St. John’s Church in Cullman. He has supported the Cullman County Bosom Buddies Foundation through donations and office space and frequently shares his experiences with students in local schools, honoring the sacrifices of veterans.

In 1979, Grissom transitioned from law enforcement to entrepreneurship, founding Wholesale Jewelers International, which expanded from a single store in Cullman to several locations across Alabama. After retiring from the jewelry business in 2004, he launched Grissom Sales, specializing in tractors, trailers, and farm equipment. He currently operates Diamond Plaza Rental Properties in Cullman.

David Grissom’s life exemplifies a commitment to service, resilience, and leadership within his community. Whether through his military service, law enforcement career, or civic engagement, he has consistently demonstrated valor and integrity. In his personal life, Grissom enjoys activities such as hunting and gun collecting, reflecting a deep engagement with the community he has dedicated his life to serve.