James Anderson Jr.: Anderson left college to join the United States Marine Corps on February 17, 1966.


 He went through basic training with the 1st Recruit Training Battalion at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California. After finishing his training in August 1966, he was promoted to private first class. He was then sent to Camp Pendleton, California, for more training with the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Training Regiment. In December 1966, Anderson was sent to Vietnam, where he became a rifleman in Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, based in Quang Tri Province.


On February 28, 1967, during Operation Prairie II, Anderson lost his life when he threw himself on a grenade to save the lives of his fellow Marines. His platoon had been moving through thick jungle northwest of Cam Lộ to help rescue a trapped reconnaissance unit. As the lead group, they were suddenly hit by intense enemy fire. Anderson and the other Marines were packed close together, just 20 meters from enemy lines. When a grenade landed near his head, Anderson didn't hesitate—he grabbed it, pulled it to his chest, and curled his body around it before it exploded. While a few Marines were injured by shrapnel, Anderson took the full blast, saving the others from serious harm or death.


This brave and selfless act earned him the Medal of Honor for going above and beyond the call of duty. His courage, sacrifice, and devotion to his fellow Marines brought great honor to himself, the Marine Corps, and the U.S. Navy. He gave his life for his country at the young age of 20. He was also awarded the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze star, Vietnam Military Merit Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with palm, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal... Continue reading 

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