Jay R. Vargas facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Jay R. Vargas
Jay R. Vargas
Born	(1938-07-29) July 29, 1938 (age 86) Winslow, Arizona, U.S.
Allegiance	United States
Service/branch	United States Marine Corps
Years of service	1963–1992
Rank	Colonel
Unit	2nd Battalion 4th Marines
Commands held	3rd Reconnaissance Battalion
Battles/wars	Vietnam War Battle of Dai Do
Awards	Medal of Honor Silver Star Purple Heart (5) Meritorious Service Medal
Other work	Department of Veterans Affairs

Jay R. Vargas, born on July 29, 1938, is a brave retired United States Marine Corps officer. He was a colonel who fought in the Vietnam War. In 1968, he earned the highest military award, the Medal of Honor, for his incredible courage and bravery.

Jay was one of four brothers who all served in the U.S. military during different wars, like World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Jay's Early Life and Education

Jay Vargas grew up in Winslow, Arizona, where he was born. He went to high school there. In 1962, he graduated from Northern Arizona University with a degree in education. Later, he earned a Master of Arts degree from U.S International University in San Diego, California.

Serving in the Marine Corps

After finishing his basic training in 1963, Vargas joined the 1st Battalion, 5th Marines. He was a captain during the Battle of Dai Do in Republic of Vietnam in 1968. For his amazing actions in this battle, he was given the Medal of Honor. President Richard M. Nixon presented him with this award in 1970 at the White House.

Lieutenant Colonel Jay Vargas with Medal of Honor

During his nearly 30 years in the Marine Corps, Vargas held many important jobs. He led different groups of Marines, including rifle companies and reconnaissance battalions. He also taught at military schools and worked at the main headquarters of the Marine Corps in Washington, D.C.

In 1992, Vargas retired from the Marine Corps as a colonel.

What is the Medal of Honor?

The Medal of Honor is the highest military award given by the United States government. It is given to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who show extreme bravery and self-sacrifice in combat.

Here is why Jay R. Vargas received this special award:

The President of the United States in the name of The Congress takes pleasure in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to

MAJOR JAY R. VARGAS
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

for service as set forth in the following CITATION:

For outstanding bravery and courage, risking his life beyond what was expected, while leading Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam from April 30 to May 2, 1968. On May 1, 1968, even though he was hurt from wounds the day before, Major (then Captain) Vargas led his men in an attack on the strong village of Dai Do. He skillfully moved his Marines across 700 meters of open rice paddy while under heavy enemy mortar, rocket, and artillery fire. They managed to get a foothold in two hedgerows at the edge of the enemy's defenses.

When some of his company got stuck under intense enemy fire, Major Vargas led his reserve platoon to help them. He inspired his men to keep pushing forward, destroying many enemy bunkers. He was wounded again by grenade pieces but refused help. He moved around the dangerous area, getting his unit back into a strong defense at the edge of the village.

Soon after they secured their goal, the enemy started many counterattacks throughout the night. But Company G's brave defenders held their ground firmly. The next morning, with more Marines, they attacked through Dai Do to the village of Dinh To. The enemy fought back with a huge counterattack, leading to hand-to-hand combat. Major Vargas stayed out in the open, cheering on his Marines and helping them. He was hit for the third time in the three-day battle.

When he saw his battalion commander get badly wounded, he ignored his own pain. He crossed the dangerous area and carried his commander to a safe spot. Then he went back to leading and encouraging his men, while also helping to set up the battalion's defense. His brave actions show the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

/S/ RICHARD M. NIXON

Life After the Military

After leaving the military, Vargas continued to serve his country in a different way. From 1993 to 1998, he worked for the state of California as the Secretary of the California Department of Veterans Affairs.

In 2001, he was appointed as a Regional Veterans Liaison for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. In this role, he helped veterans and their families. He held this position until 2009.

Jay's Family and Their Service

Jay Vargas's parents came to the United States in 1917. His mother was Italian, and his father was Hispanic. Jay was one of four brothers who all served in the U.S. military during wartime. Each of his brothers also received awards for their service:

• Angelo fought at Iwo Jima in World War II.
• Frank fought on Okinawa in World War II.
• Joseph served in the Korean War.

Jay Vargas honored his mother by having her name engraved on his Medal of Honor. She passed away before he received the medal. He asked for her name, M. Sando, to be added to the official records as the recipient.

Military Awards and Decorations

Vargas received many awards and decorations for his service, including:

See also

In Spanish: Jay R. Vargas para niños

• List of Medal of Honor recipients for the Vietnam War
• List of Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients
• Hispanics in the United States Marine Corps