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Episode 2868 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Marine CPT James Albert Graham and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and a story titled: Medal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Capt. James A. Graham that appeared on the US Department of Defense website.
Marine Captain James Albert Graham was a Vietnam War hero whose bravery and sacrifice earned him the Medal of Honor. Born on August 25, 1940, in the small town of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, he joined the Marine Corps in 1963 and served with distinction.
In 1967, Captain Graham led Company L, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines during a fierce battle near the village of La Tho, Quang Tin Province. His unit was engaged in heavy combat with North Vietnamese forces, facing intense enemy fire. As they advanced, they were caught in a deadly ambush. Despite the overwhelming odds, Captain Graham remained calm and determined, rallying his men to press forward.
When the situation became critical and casualties mounted, Graham realized the only way to save his men was to take extraordinary action. He personally led an assault to clear the enemy’s position, exposing himself to intense enemy fire. As they neared the objective, a grenade landed nearby. Without hesitation, Graham threw himself on the grenade, absorbing the full blast with his body. His selfless act saved the lives of several Marines at the cost of his own.
Captain Graham’s unwavering courage and dedication to his fellow Marines epitomized the Marine Corps’ values of honor, courage, and commitment. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions, a symbol of his ultimate sacrifice and his place in the legacy of American military valor.
Listen to Episode 2868 and discover more about Marine CPT James Albert Graham and his Congressional Medal of Honor award.