American Village

Members of the community gather at the newly named Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore Liberty Hall at American Village on Monday, Feb. 15, 2010. Lt. Gen. Hal Moore holds his hand over his heart during the musical selection "America! Medley" performed by pianist Denise George. (The Birmingham News/ Michelle Williams)

(Michelle Williams)

Retired Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, of Auburn, who led the first major battle of the Vietnam War, died on Friday after suffering a stroke, the Opelika-Auburn News reported. He was 94.

Moore is considered a national hero for his actions at the Battle of Ia Drang, where he saved the lives of most of his men despite being heavily outnumbered by North Vietnamese forces. At the time, he was Lieutenant Colonel in command of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment.

Moore was portrayed by Mel Gibson in the film, "We Were Soldiers."

A few months ago Gibson, who had become friends with Moore, and Vince Vaughn traveled to Auburn to visit Moore, according to the newspaper.

Many of Moore's family members, including his five children, were in Auburn this weekend to celebrate what would have been his 95th birthday on Monday.

Funeral services have yet to be announced.