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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Marvin R. Young.
Medal of Honor
Episode 3037 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Marvin R. Young. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the 5th Infantry Regiment Association website.
In the sweltering jungles of Vietnam, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Marvin R. Young etched his name into the annals of military heroism. A native of Odessa, Texas, Young served with Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. On August 21, 1968, during a fierce firefight near Ben Cui, South Vietnam, SSG Young displayed extraordinary valor that would posthumously earn him the Medal of Honor—the highest military decoration awarded by the United States.
Amid a devastating ambush by North Vietnamese forces, SSG Young repeatedly risked his life to cover the retreat of his platoon. Refusing evacuation after being wounded, he engaged the enemy with relentless fire, ensuring the safety of his fellow soldiers. Even when gravely injured, Marvin R. Young continued to fight, providing critical cover fire until he succumbed to his wounds. His gallantry, intrepidity, and selfless sacrifice were in the finest traditions of the U.S. Army.
The Medal of Honor citation highlights his indomitable courage under fire, leadership, and devotion to duty—core values of the Vietnam War’s most heroic soldiers. SSG Young’s actions saved lives and exemplified the spirit of American military service in Vietnam.
Today, his legacy endures as a symbol of bravery and patriotism. His name is engraved on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., and in the hearts of those who cherish freedom. Marvin R. Young is not only a Medal of Honor recipient but a true American hero whose courage continues to inspire generations.
Listen to Episode 3037 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Marvin R. Young.
