Robert Emmett O'Malley

Robert Emmett O'Malley (born June 3, 1943) is a United States Marine veteran who was the first Marine Corps recipient of the Medal of Honor in the Vietnam War. He received the medal for his actions as a corporal on August 18, 1965, during Operation Starlite.

Early life alt=Head and shoulders of a white man with a pointed mustache, wearing a star-shaped medal on a blue ribbon around his neck. O'Malley was born on June 3, 1943, in New York City. He was raised and attended school in the Woodside, Queens, section of the city. O'Malley graduated from high school in 1961 and joined the United States Marines soon after; all three of his brothers also served in the Marine Corps. Coincidentally, O'Malley grew up with Lance Corporal Thomas P. Noonan, Jr., who would also be awarded the Medal of Honor in Vietnam, albeit posthumously. The two attended school and church together and were friends throughout childhood. After Noonan's death in Vietnam, O'Malley remained in contact with the Noonan family and visited Noonan's mother every year on Memorial Day.

Military career Enlisting in the United States Marine Corps on October 11, 1961, O'Malley completed recruit training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. He then transferred to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and served with the 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. He was promoted to private first class in May 1962.

After the battle, O'Malley received treatment in Japan for his wounds, including surgery to remove fragmentation that had lodged in his lungs.

Awards and decorations O'Malley's awards include:

/S/ LYNDON B. JOHNSON