Paul D. Spillane

Service & Sacrifice

Paul Donald Spillane grew up in Leicester, Massachusetts, and entered the United States Army, building a career as a Special Forces qualified infantryman. Those who served with him remembered him as one hell of an NCO and a great family man.

SFC Spillane previously served in Germany at a Nike missile site near Hahn Air Base before deploying to Vietnam with the 5th Special Forces Group. He was assigned to Detachment B-52, Project Delta, where he served with the unit's reconnaissance or reaction elements.

On July 26, 1968, SFC Spillane was killed in action during operations in South Vietnam. A fellow soldier who had promised to look after his family attended his funeral, honoring a commitment made between brothers in arms.

SFC Spillane's dedication to duty and devotion to his family exemplified the character of the men who served in Project Delta. His sacrifice is remembered by fellow soldiers and grateful Americans who continue to leave tributes in his honor.