David McCann

David McCann, 66, of Springfield, passed away at 1:01 p.m. Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at St. John’s Hospital. David was born March 2, 1936 the son of Edward William and Josephine M. Halbrook McCann in Springfield. Mr. McCann was a U.S. Army veteran serving during Vietnam. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device for his heroism connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on March 19, 1969. Specialist Four McCann distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with Company E, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry. On that date, Landing Zone West came under an intense ground attack from an enemy force of undetermined size utilizing small arms, rocket propelled grenades, and satchel charges. With the initial enemy barrage, Specialist McCann’s bunker was hit and a friendly soldier was wounded. Despite the enemy fire impacting throughout the area, Specialist McCann carried his wounded comrade to a secure area and returned to his bunker placing heavy volumes of suppressive fire on the attacking insurgents, Specialist McCann momentarily halted the enemy advance. He kept up his fire until a reactionary force arrived at his bunker. With the addition of the reactionary force, the volume of fire increased and completely thwarted the enemy attack. Specialist Four McCann’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army. He had been employed by Bemco Matress for 17 years. He was of Catholic faith and attended Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Edward Wm. McCann, John G. McCann and Michael James McCann; sister: Mary Alice Kelly. He is survived by three sisters: Rozanne Money, JoAnne (husband John) Luparell and Beatrice (husband, James) Meadows all of Springfield; brother: James M. (wife, Marianne) McCann, Sr. of Springfield; several nieces and nephews. Friends may call at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home from 3-6:00 p.m. Sunday, September 22, 2002. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 23, 2002 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Franzen officiating. Burial will follow in Camp Butler National Cemetery where the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County will conduct military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the World War II Memorial Fund, 410 South Fifth Street, P.O. Box 5652, Springfield, IL 62705-5652. The family of David McCann is being served by Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 South 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62703.