How many Marines received the Medal of Honor in Vietnam?
During the Vietnam War 248 Medals of Honor were received of which 156 of them were presented posthumously. Soldiers of the Army received the most with 161. Fifty seven went to the Marines and 16 to the Navy. The remaining 14 went to the Air Force.
How many Marines have won the Medal of Honor?
297 Marines
Since 1862, 297 Marines have been awarded the Medal of Honor. The first recipient was Corporal John F.
Who is the first living Marine to be awarded the Medal of Honor since Vietnam?
Dakota Meyer
Dakota Meyer, 22, of Greensburg, Ky., is likely to become the first Marine since Vietnam to receive the Medal of Honor, the Marine Corps Times reports. The medal would recognize his actions on Sept.
Who was the most decorated Marine in Vietnam?
Jorge Otero Barreto
He earned 38 military decorations during his career, and has been called the most decorated U.S. soldier of the Vietnam War….
| Jorge Otero Barreto | |
|---|---|
| Years of service | 1959–1970 |
| Rank | Sergeant First Class |
| Unit | 101st Airborne 25th Infantry 82nd Airborne 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War ( WIA ) |
How rare is the Medal of Honor?
Today, the Medal of Honor is known to be a rare award representing action of incredible valor or self-sacrifice. However, prior to World War I, the MOH was awarded much more frequently—nearly 3,000 times. Between 1861 and 1918, requirements for awarding the Medal of Honor and who could receive it gradually changed.
The medal is awarded “in the name of the Congress of the United States” and for this reason, it is often called the Congressional Medal of Honor. It is only on rare occasions, however, that Congress awards special Medals of Honor. Since 1862, 297 Marines have been awarded the Medal of Honor.
Who won the Medal of Honor in Vietnam?
Michael Edwin Thornton (born March 23, 1949) is a retired United States Navy SEAL and recipient of the U.S. military’s highest decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his actions in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the medal for saving the life of his senior officer, Lieutenant Thomas R.
Who was the first Marine Medal of Honor?
On May 15, 1862, Cpl. John F. Mackie became the first Marine to receive the Medal of Honor. Mackie received the medal for his bravery when the USS Galena was attacked during the Civil War. Although the ship encountered heavy gunfire, Mackie fearlessly maintained defenses even when men around him were killed or wounded.
What is the Marine Corps Medal of Honor?
Marine Corps History: The Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery that can be given to any individual in the United States. In judging men for receipt of the medal, each service has established its own regulations.