On October 12, 1967, during Operation MEDINA in Vietnam, Marine Combat Photographer Cpl. William Perkins Jr. was documenting intense combat when a grenade landed near him and three fellow Marines. Without hesitation, he shouted “Incoming grenade!” and threw himself on it, sacrificing his life to save theirs. Though he came to capture the war through his lens, Perkins left behind a legacy of heroism far beyond the battlefield. He remains the only combat photographer in U.S. history to receive the Medal of Honor.

Medal of Honor Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a combat photographer attached to Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam on 12 October 1967. During Operation MEDINA, a major reconnaissance in force, southwest of Quang Tri, Company C made heavy combat contact with a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army Force estimated at from two to three companies. The focal point of the intense fighting was a helicopter landing zone which was also serving as the Command Post of Company C. In the course of a strong hostile attack, an enemy grenade landed in the immediate area occupied by Corporal Perkins and three other Marines. Realizing the inherent danger, he shouted the warning, "Incoming Grenade" to his fellow Marines, and in a valiant act of heroism, hurled himself upon the grenade absorbing the impact of the explosion with his own body thereby saving the lives of his comrades at the cost of his own. Through his exceptional courage and inspiring valor in the face of certain death, Corporal Perkins reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more true stories of American military heroes.

Photos Courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Video/Photo Courtesy https://www.dvidshub.net/ *The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

Join this channel to get access to perks:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZMN1lzlPAu16EUXJlHOj2w/join

Copyright © 2025 Duty & Valor. All rights reserved.