Scott’s View: In Memoriam: Paul W. “Bud” Bucha

The team here at WeSalute is joining millions of active duty military, veterans, and their families to mourn the passing of Paul W. Bucha, a Medal of Honor recipient and a founding member of our WeSalute Board of Advisors, who died last week at age 80. Over the last 25 years, he was a tireless supporter of our mission at WeSalute, formerly known as Veterans Advantage.

Paul was a true American hero who served his country with distinction in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in March 1968. Graduating in the top 2% of his class at West Point, he was an All-American swimmer and later designated a distinguished graduate, as well. With an MBA from the Stamford Business School, Paul was a successful businessman, including holding a senior executive position with Ross Perot for many years.

Paul was a humble and selfless man who never sought recognition for receiving our military’s highest decoration. He always chose to remember those who served alongside him, and who made the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield over 50 years ago. 

“I wear this for my guys,” he said about the Medal of Honor in his last public interview which we published this past May. “I wear the medal on behalf of all those who we served with, particularly for those who died without the recognition.”

Most of his friends called him “Bud,” millions called him “sir,” but he was always pleased to call us all his dear friends.

We extend our deepest condolences to Paul's spouse Cynthia, their family, and friends. He was an inspiration to all who knew him, including the team at WeSalute, and his legacy will live on for generations to come. We understand there will be a service at West Point on January 16 in Paul’s honor. Other services are also being planned. 

Paul will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

May he rest in peace.