James Anderson Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Anderson Jr.
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James Anderson Jr., Medal of Honor recipient
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| Born | January 22, 1947 Los Angeles, California, US |
| Died | February 28, 1967 (aged 20) † near Cam Lo Combat Base, Quang Tri Province, Vietnam |
| Place of burial |
Lincoln Memorial Park in Carson, California
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1966–1967 |
| Rank |  Private First Class |
| Unit | Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War
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| Awards |  Medal of Honor Purple Heart |
Private First Class James Anderson Jr. (born January 22, 1947 – died February 28, 1967) was a brave United States Marine. He received the Medal of Honor, the highest military award, after he passed away. This award was given for his incredible courage during the Vietnam War in February 1967. On August 21, 1968, when he received this honor, he became the first African American Marine to get the Medal of Honor for his service in Vietnam.
Anderson joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1966. He was part of a mission called Operation Prairie II. During this mission, his group of Marines was moving through a jungle near Cam Lo Combat Base when they were suddenly attacked by enemy forces. Anderson showed amazing bravery. He protected his fellow Marines from a dangerous explosive device, saving their lives. He died during this heroic act. Because of his selfless deed, he was honored with the Medal of Honor.
Early Life and Joining the Marines
James Anderson Jr. was born in Los Angeles, California, on January 22, 1947. He grew up with six brothers and sisters. After finishing high school, he studied at Los Angeles Harbor Junior College for about a year and a half. He had a dream of becoming a preacher at his local church, Belmont Baptist Church.
In February 1966, James decided to join the United States Marine Corps. He went through recruit training in San Diego, California. This is where new Marines learn important skills. After completing his training in August 1966, he was promoted to Private First Class. He then received more training at Camp Pendleton, California.
In December 1966, Private First Class Anderson went to Vietnam. He served as a rifleman, which means he was a soldier who used a rifle, with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines. On February 28, 1967, during a mission called Operation Prairie II, Private First Class Anderson showed incredible bravery. He protected his fellow Marines from a dangerous explosive device, saving their lives. He died during this heroic act. James Anderson Jr. was buried at Lincoln Memorial Park in Carson, California.
Awards and Honors
Private First Class Anderson received many awards for his service and bravery. These include the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart. Below are some of the ribbons representing his medals:
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Remembering a Hero
Many places and things have been named in honor of James Anderson Jr. to remember his bravery and sacrifice:
- The United States Navy ship, MV PFC James Anderson Jr. (AK-3002), is named after him.
- His name is carved into the Vietnam Veterans Memorial ("The Wall") on Panel 15E - Row 112.
- A park in Carson, California, at the corner of Wilmington and University, is called James Anderson Jr. Memorial Park.
- Anderson Hall on Marine Corps Base Hawaii was dedicated in his honor in 1972. This was the home to his Marine unit.
- Anderson Avenue in Compton, California, is also named after him.
- A 2017 novel by Sheldon McCormick, The Downlow Saga, was dedicated in his memory.
See also
 | Audre Lorde |
 | John Berry Meachum |
 | Ferdinand Lee Barnett |
