Corporal Richard Allen Anderson was a member of the United States Marine Corps. He received a posthumous Medal of Honor for his service in Vietnam. He also earned the Purple Heart and the Combat Action Ribbon for his action.
Background
Born in Washington, D.C., on April 16, 1948, Anderson’s journey took a turn when his family moved to Houston, Texas, during his childhood. After graduating high school, where he was active in track and football, Anderson took his first step toward his dream of serving the nation. That’s when he enrolled at San Jacinto Junior College. But that wasn’t enough. Anderson’s heart yearned for a bigger purpose. So, in April of 1968, he mustered the courage and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Anderson’s path wasn’t easy. He had to undergo the most challenging boot camp in San Diego, California. But, he came out of it strong and determined. Anderson’s dedication and commitment towards his service paid off. Soon he promoted to Private First Class after attending Sea Training. His unwavering spirit didn’t go unnoticed. Within months, he deployed to Southeast Asia as a member of Company E, 3D Reconnaissance Battalion, 3D Marine Division FMF.
Anderson’s bravery and leadership potential shone brightly in the battlefields of Southeast Asia. His superiors were quick to recognize his skills, and he was promoted to Lance Corporal in June of 1969. But that wasn’t the end of Anderson’s journey. In the summer of 1969, he found himself face to face with the enemy. His exceptional skills and unwavering courage earned him the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor Action
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as an assistant team leader with Company E, in connection with combat operations against an armed enemy. While conducting a patrol during the early morning hours L/Cpl. Anderson’s reconnaissance team came under a heavy volume of automatic-weapons and machine-gun fire from a numerically superior and well-concealed enemy force. Although painfully wounded in both legs and knocked to the ground during the initial moments of the fierce firefight, L/Cpl. Anderson assumed a prone position and continued to deliver intense suppressive fire in an attempt to repulse the attackers.
“Moments later, he was wounded a second time by an enemy soldier who had approached to within eight feet of the team’s position. Undaunted, he continued to pour a relentless stream of fire at the assaulting unit, even while a companion was treating his leg wounds. Observing an enemy grenade land between himself and the other marine, L/Cpl. Anderson immediately rolled over and covered the lethal weapon with his body, absorbing the full effects of the detonation. By his indomitable courage, inspiring initiative, and selfless devotion to duty, L/Cpl. Anderson was instrumental in saving several marines from serious injury or possible death. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.” – Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Even with his wounds, Anderson kept fighting. His fellow marine came to his aid and wrapped one of his wounds, and he kept firing. But, soon, an insurgent launched a grenade, which landed just feet away from Anderson and his comrade. In an act of selflessness, Anderson rolled over just before the device detonated. His body absorbed the shock of the explosion, saving the other marine, but Anderson did not survive the blast. His sacrifice and bravery will always be remembered as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the American service members.
Valor Award Ceremony
President Nixon presented Corporal Anderson’s family with his Medal of Honor. During the ceremony, Nixon commended him for his exceptional courage in the line of duty. In the end, Lance Corporal Anderson’s sacrifice is an enduring testament to the spirit of American service members. His actions in the face of overwhelming odds saved his fellow marine and prevented even greater loss of life. Corporal Anderson’s unwavering commitment to duty and his country is a shining example for all of us to follow. Though he may be gone, his memory lives on as a symbol of the valor and selflessness. Even now, this is what that defines the American fighting spirit. President Nixon’s presentation of the Medal of Honor to Anderson’s family was a fitting tribute to a true American hero, whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Americans to come.
How to support the Medal of Honor mission
- Learn more about the Congressional Medal of Honor Society at cmohs.org or find them on Instagram |Facebook
- Participate in Medal of Honor Day on March 25 by sharing a recipient’s story
- Support veteran hiring and transition programs in your workplace
- Teach younger generations about the values of courage, sacrifice, and service
Medal of Honor Month isn’t just about recognizing history. It’s about keeping the mission alive for the future. Observe Medal of Honor March on We Are The Mighty here.