Kenneth Lee Worley

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Kenneth Lee Worley (MCSN: 2230824), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty on 12 August 1968, while serving as a machine gunner with Company L, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam. After establishing a night ambush position in a house in the Bo Ban, Hamlet of Quang Nam Province, security was set up and the remainder of the patrol members retired until their respective watch. During the early morning hours the Marines were abruptly awakened by the platoon leader's warning that "grenades" had landed in the house. Fully realizing the inevitable result of his actions, Lance Corporal Worley, in a valiant act of heroism, instantly threw himself upon the grenade nearest him and his comrades, absorbing with his body, the full and tremendous force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved his comrades from serious injury and possible loss of life although five of his fellow Marines incurred minor wounds as the other grenades exploded. Lance Corporal Worley's gallant actions upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Action Date: 12-Aug-68

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Lance Corporal

Company: Company L

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.) FMF