William G. Joslyn

William George Joslyn (March 14, 1922 – December 22, 2011) was a decorated officer in the United States Marine Corps with the rank of major general. A veteran of three wars, Joslyn distinguished himself in the Korean War and rose to the rank of general during the Vietnam War. He completed his career as commanding general, 2nd Marine Division.

Joslyn was also an athlete and competed in American football during his studies at high school and later at Stanford University. He was drafted by the NFL's Washington Redskins in 1944.

Early career

Joslyn was born in San Francisco, California, as the son of William and Elizabeth Joslyn. He attended Grant Grammar School and Lowell High School there, where he captained the undefeated 1939 city championship football team. Following graduation in summer 1940, Joslyn enrolled in Stanford University and was active again on the university football team as a brilliant running back and was also drafted by the NFL's Washington Redskins in 1944.

One month later, Joslyn took part in the battle of Bunker Hill and held that position despite several enemy counterattacks. He later assumed command of Company "B" and participated in the defense combats until March 1953. For his service in Korea, Joslyn was decorated with the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V", Navy Commendation Medal with Combat "V" and Purple Heart for wounds received in action.

1953–1965

Following his return to the United States in April 1953, Joslyn served for two years as a recruiting officer in Los Angeles, California, and was promoted to the rank of major in December 1954. He served in that capacity until June 1955, when he was sent for instruction to the Amphibious Warfare School at Quantico. Upon completing the junior course in July 1956, Joslyn was ordered to Hawaii, where he joined the headquarters, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific.

Joslyn returned to the United States in July 1971 and assumed duty as deputy assistant chief of staff for operations (G-3) at Headquarters Marine Corps. He remained in that capacity until April 1973 and then assumed command of Marine Corps Base 29 Palms and also held dual command as commanding general, Force Troops, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. In this capacity, he was responsible for all independent units under FMFPAC such as support artillery units, antiaircraft artillery units, military police battalions, separate engineer units and other miscellaneous force units.

Major General William G. Joslyn died on December 22, 2011, in La Jolla, California, and is buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery together with his wife, Barbara Ruth Williams.

Decorations

A complete list of the general's medals and decorations include: