Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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Vietnam War - U.S. Marine Corps

Kenneth Lee Worley

Details
  • Rank: Lance Corporal
  • Conflict/Era: Vietnam War
  • Unit/Command:
    Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines,
    1st Marine Division (Rein) FMF
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: August 12, 1968
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Bo Ban, Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam
Citation
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a machine gunner with Company L, 3d Battalion, in action against enemy forces. After establishing a night ambush position in a house in Bo Ban, a hamlet of Quang Nam Province, security was set up and the remainder of the patrol members retired until their respective watch. During the early morning hours the marines were abruptly awakened by the platoon leader's warning that "grenades" had landed in the house. Fully realizing the inevitable result of his actions, L/Cpl. Worley, in a valiant act of heroism, instantly threw himself upon the grenade nearest him and his comrades, absorbing with his body, the full and tremendous force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved his comrades from serious injury and possible loss of life although five of his fellow marines incurred minor wounds as the other grenades exploded. L/Cpl. Worley's gallant actions upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Medal of Honor Recipient Kenneth L. Worley
Medal of Honor Recipient Kenneth L. Worley
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Fresno, Fresno County, California
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: April 20, 1970
    The White House, presented by Vice Pres. Spiro T. Agnew to his family
  • Born: April 27, 1948, Farmington, San Juan County, NM, United States
  • Died: August 12, 1968, Republic of Vietnam
  • Buried: Westminster Memorial Park (MH) (29-784-4), Westminster, CA, United States
 

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