The United States Marine Corps has a long and storied history of producing some of the most formidable and dedicated warriors in American military history. These Marines have demonstrated courage, determination, and selflessness in the face of incredible danger, earning them some of the highest military honors the nation bestows.
From the battlefields of World War II to the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan, these Marines have proven themselves time and time again as some of the most decorated warriors in American history.
In this article, we will look closer at the ten most decorated Marines in American history and the incredible feats of bravery that earned them their place in the pantheon of American heroes.
Table of contents
- Most Decorated Marines In American History
- #1. Lieutenant General Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller
- #2. Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone
- #3. Sergeant Major Daniel J. Daly
- #4. Lieutenant Colonel John W. Ripley
- #5. Sergeant Major Bradley Kasal
- #6. Sergeant Major Allan J. Kellogg Jr.
- #7. Corporal Duane E. Dewey
- #8. Colonel Robert E. Galer
- #9. Sergeant Major Ernest Ivy “Boots” Thomas Jr
- #10. Sergeant Darrell S. Cole
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusions
- References
- Recommendations
Most Decorated Marines In American History
#1. Lieutenant General Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller
Lieutenant General Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller is one of the most decorated Marines in American history. He is a true legend in the United States Marine Corps and is known for his courage, leadership, and dedication to the Marine Corps.
Puller served in the Marine Corps for over 37 years, from 1918 to 1955, and his service spanned five major conflicts, including World War II and the Korean War. During his career, he received an incredible 5 Navy Crosses, the second-highest award for valor in the U.S. Armed Forces, and numerous other awards and decorations.
Puller’s incredible leadership and bravery on the battlefield set him apart from his counterparts. He led his troops from the front and was always willing to put himself in harm’s way to protect his men.
Puller’s leadership was instrumental in the success of many critical battles, including the Battle of Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War. Puller’s 1st Marine Division was vastly outnumbered and surrounded by Chinese troops during that battle. Puller refused to retreat and led his men in a daring breakout that allowed them to escape the enemy encirclement.
Puller’s dedication to the Marine Corps and his country is also why he is so highly decorated. His leadership and bravery have inspired generations of Marines.
#2. Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone
Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone is considered one of the most decorated Marines in American history due to his incredible bravery and service to his country during World War II.
Basilone earned the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Guadalcanal. He single-handedly took out two enemy machine gun nests and led his men in repelling a fierce Japanese attack, despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned. His actions saved the lives of many of his fellow Marines and helped secure a critical victory for the United States.
Basilone’s heroism didn’t stop there. He led his men in a successful attack on a heavily fortified Japanese position at the Battle of Iwo Jima. He was also awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery during this battle.
Basilone’s courage and leadership made him a hero among his fellow Marines. He was widely respected and admired for his dedication to his country and selfless service.
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#3. Sergeant Major Daniel J. Daly
Sergeant Major Daniel J. Daly is one of the most decorated Marines in American history due to his incredible service and bravery during multiple conflicts.
Daly earned two Medals of Honor for his actions during the Boxer Rebellion in China and World War I. During the Boxer Rebellion, Daly led his men in a successful defense against a much larger enemy force. In World War I, Daly’s bravery and leadership during the Battle of Belleau Wood helped turn the tide of the battle in favor of the Allies.
In addition to his two Medals of Honor, Daly received the Navy Cross and the Distinguished Service Cross for his service in World War I. He also received the Marine Corps Brevet Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Croix de Guerre from France.
#4. Lieutenant Colonel John W. Ripley
Lieutenant Colonel John W. Ripley is considered one of the most decorated Marines in American history due to his incredible bravery and service during the Vietnam War.
Ripley earned the Navy Cross, the second-highest award for valor in the U.S. Armed Forces, for his actions during the Battle of Dong Ha in 1972. He single-handedly destroyed a vital bridge over the Cua Viet River, which prevented North Vietnamese forces from launching a major offensive against South Vietnam. Ripley’s actions saved countless lives and helped turn the tide of the war in favor of the U.S. and its allies.
In addition to the Navy Cross, Ripley received the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star with a Combat “V” for valor for his service in Vietnam. He also received the Purple Heart and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star.
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#5. Sergeant Major Bradley Kasal
Sergeant Major Bradley Kasal is one of the most decorated Marines in American history, and for a good reason. He’s a true American hero who demonstrated remarkable bravery and selflessness during one of the most intense battles in the Iraq War.
In November 2004, Kasal was the First Sergeant of the Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, and 1st Marines during the Second Battle of Fallujah. He and his men were clearing a house that was an insurgent stronghold. However, they quickly found themselves under heavy enemy fire, with insurgents throwing grenades and firing automatic weapons.
Despite being seriously injured early in the fight, Kasal refused medical treatment and continued leading his men into battle. He bravely charged into rooms, engaging in close-quarters combat with the enemy and protecting his fellow Marines.
At one point, Kasal encountered a wounded Marine and a live grenade. Without hesitation, he threw himself on the grenade to shield his comrade from the blast. The explosion tore through Kasal’s body, shattering his leg and causing numerous other injuries.
Despite his wounds, Kasal continued to fight, leading his men to clear the house and eliminate the enemy threat.
For his actions during the battle, Kasal was awarded the Navy Cross. He also received the Purple Heart, the Combat Action Ribbon, and numerous other awards and decorations.
#6. Sergeant Major Allan J. Kellogg Jr.
Sergeant Major Allan J. Kellogg Jr. earned his place in the annals of military history due to his courage, leadership, and selflessness during his time in the United States Marine Corps.
Kellogg’s military service took him to some of the world’s most dangerous and hostile environments, including combat operations in Vietnam. During his first tour of duty in Vietnam, he earned the Bronze Star with Combat “V” for valor after saving the lives of several of his fellow Marines during a fierce battle.
Kellogg returned to Vietnam for a second tour of duty in 1968, earning the Navy Cross for his actions during the Battle of Hue City. During the battle, Kellogg led his squad in a series of daring attacks on enemy positions, repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire to save the lives of his men.
In addition to his Bronze Star and Navy Cross, Kellogg earned two Purple Hearts for wounds received in combat, the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. He retired from the Marine Corps in 1993 as a Sergeant Major, the highest enlisted rank in the Marine Corps.
Kellogg’s bravery and selflessness in the face of danger are a testament to the spirit of the United States Marine Corps. His service to his country and fellow Marines inspires all who have followed in his footsteps.
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#7. Corporal Duane E. Dewey
Corporal Duane E. Dewey served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, and his heroic actions in battle earned him numerous awards and medals.
Dewey’s military career began in 1942 when he joined the Marine Corps. He quickly showed a remarkable aptitude for combat, and he was soon sent to the Pacific theater to fight against the Japanese. There, he would distinguish himself as one of his generation’s most courageous and determined Marines.
Dewey’s first significant engagement came during the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943. Despite the intense enemy fire and challenging terrain, Dewey led his squad in a daring assault against a heavily fortified Japanese position. He fought fiercely and fearlessly, and his leadership and bravery inspired his men to victory. For his actions at Tarawa, Dewey was awarded the Silver Star, one of the highest honors in the U.S. military.
But Dewey’s heroism didn’t stop there. In subsequent battles on Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, he continued to distinguish himself as a fearless and effective leader.
For his service in World War II, Dewey received the Navy Cross and numerous other medals and citations. He retired from the Marine Corps in 1962 after 20 years of distinguished service.
Today, Dewey is famous for his remarkable courage, leadership in battle, humility, and dedication to his fellow Marines.
#8. Colonel Robert E. Galer
Colonel Galer’s accomplishments are truly remarkable. During World War II, he was a fighter pilot and flew over 200 combat missions. He shot down 13 enemy aircraft, making him one of the top Marine Corps aces of the war. In addition, he received numerous awards for his service during the war, including the Medal of Honor, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, and three Air Medals.
Colonel Galer’s service continued into the Korean War, where he served as the commanding officer of Marine Fighter Squadron 323. Under his leadership, the squadron played a crucial role in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, where they provided close air support to ground troops and helped repel a massive Chinese offensive. Colonel Galer was awarded the Silver Star for his actions during the battle.
But Colonel Galer’s contributions to the Marine Corps exceeded his combat service. He also served as an instructor, training numerous pilots who went on to serve in conflicts worldwide.
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#9. Sergeant Major Ernest Ivy “Boots” Thomas Jr
Sergeant Major Thomas’ service began during the Korean War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for his actions in combat. He went on to serve in the Vietnam War, where he earned a Silver Star for his bravery under fire. During his service in Vietnam, he also received the Purple Heart and two more Bronze Stars for his actions in combat.
He served as the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps from 1983 to 1987, where he was responsible for the training and developing of thousands of Marines.
Sergeant Major Thomas’ dedication to the Marine Corps continued even after he retired from active duty. He was a vocal advocate for veterans’ rights and worked tirelessly to ensure they received the support and care they deserved.
#10. Sergeant Darrell S. Cole
Sergeant Cole’s bravery and leadership were evident from the beginning of his service. During the Battle of Guadalcanal, he led a group of Marines in a charge against an enemy position and successfully neutralized the threat. For his actions during this battle, he was awarded the Silver Star.
Sergeant Cole’s service continued in the Pacific Theater, where he fought in several key battles, including the Battle of Iwo Jima. During this battle, he led a group of Marines in an attack against a heavily fortified enemy position, even though he was wounded.
Despite his injuries, he continued leading his men until his death. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during this battle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Some highly decorated Marines include Lieutenant General Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller, who received five Navy Crosses, and Sergeant Major Daniel J. Daly, who received two Medals of Honor.
82 Marines have received the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor awarded by the United States.
Marines can receive various medals and awards, including the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart.
Marines are typically nominated for medals and awards by their commanding officers based on their actions and performance in combat or other military operations.
The criteria for eligibility for medals and awards vary depending on the specific honor. Generally, eligibility depends on factors such as bravery, courage, heroism, leadership, and excellence in performance.
Yes, Marines can receive posthumous medals and awards if they have met the criteria for the honor.
Yes, certain restrictions exist on who can receive specific medals and awards. Additionally, there are specific eligibility requirements and criteria for each honor
Conclusions
From the early days of the Corps to modern times, Marines have consistently shown their dedication to duty and country. The most decorated Marines in American history are shining examples of the Corps’ proud traditions and the selflessness, bravery, and sacrifice it demands of its members.
Their stories inspire us and remind us of the enduring values of honor, courage, and commitment the Marines stand for.
References
Recommendations
