Robert J. Modrzejewski facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert J. Modrzejewski
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Robert J. Modrzejewski
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| Born | July 3, 1934 Milwaukee, Wisconsin |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1955–1986 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | 3rd Battalion 4th Marines |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor Legion of Merit Purple Heart |
Robert Joseph Modrzejewski, born on July 3, 1934, is a brave retired officer from the United States Marine Corps. He received the Medal of Honor, which is America's highest award for military bravery. He earned this honor for his amazing courage during the Vietnam War.
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Early Life and Education
Robert Modrzejewski was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on July 3, 1934. He went to Casimir Pulaski High School in Milwaukee and graduated in 1953. After high school, he studied at Wisconsin State Teachers College. Later, he attended the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. In 1957, he earned a degree in Education from there.
Joining the Marines
While at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Robert Modrzejewski joined the Marine Forces Reserve in 1955. He was part of a special program called the Platoon Leaders Class. After he graduated from college in June 1957, he became a second lieutenant.
He completed his basic training at The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia, in March 1958. For a short time, he worked as an instructor there.
From June 1958 to September 1959, Modrzejewski was part of the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines. He served as a platoon leader and an intelligence officer. In December 1958, he was promoted to first lieutenant.
Military Service and Promotions
Modrzejewski then moved to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. He held several important roles there. These included being an Equipment Officer and a Pathfinder Team Leader. A Pathfinder Team Leader helps guide troops and supplies. He was promoted to captain in May 1962.
After this, Captain Modrzejewski worked for three years at a Marine Corps Recruiting Station in Cincinnati, Ohio. In May 1965, he returned to Quantico, Virginia. He served as an executive officer at the Officers Candidates Schools. He also attended the Amphibious Warfare School, finishing in February 1966.
Heroism in Vietnam
After his training, Modrzejewski was sent to the Republic of Vietnam. He became the leader of Company K, which was part of the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines. It was during this time, specifically during a mission called Operation Hastings, that he showed incredible bravery. His actions earned him the Medal of Honor.
On March 12, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson held a ceremony at the White House. He presented the Medal of Honor to Major Modrzejewski and another Marine, Second Lieutenant John J. McGinty, III, for their heroic actions in Vietnam.
Modrzejewski continued to serve in Vietnam until May 1967. He was promoted to major in January 1967.
Later Career and Retirement
In June 1967, Major Modrzejewski returned to the United States. He was assigned to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. There, he was the Commanding Officer of the Marine Barracks. In January 1970, he attended the Armed Forces Staff College. He completed the course in June of that year.
In 1976, Modrzejewski earned his Master's degree in Education from Pepperdine University.
Colonel Modrzejewski retired from the Marine Corps in August 1986.
Awards and Honors
Colonel Modrzejewski received many awards for his service. Some of his most important decorations include:
- Medal of Honor
- Legion of Merit
- Purple Heart
- Meritorious Service Medal with a gold star
- Presidential Unit Citation
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars
- Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with a Gold Star
- Vietnam Campaign Medal
In 2004, the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee Alumni Association gave Modrzejewski a Distinguished Alumnus Award. In 2005, the State of Oklahoma honored him by declaring March 26, 2005, as "Colonel Robert J. Modrzejewski Day." They also praised his courage as a Medal of Honor recipient.
See also
