William Grammar graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1965. He was captured in the action on May 20 for which he was awarded the Silver Star, and killed shorty after capture.
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William Grammar graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1965. He was captured in the action on May 20 for which he was awarded the Silver Star, and killed shorty after capture.
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant William Michael Grammar (MCSN: 0-91923), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Senior Advisor to the Third Battalion, First Regiment, First Infantry Division, Army of the Republic of Vietnam on 20 May 1967. When his unit was hit hard and infiltrated by an overwhelmingly large enemy force, First Lieutenant Grammar, realizing that they were hopelessly disorganized and ineffective, took immediate action to withdraw and safeguard his team. One member of the team was seriously wounded in the initial attack. In the face of intense enemy fire and almost certain death, First Lieutenant Grammar attempted to carry the wounded man to safety. When this proved impossible, the wounded man asked to be left behind and volunteered to provide covering fire. Fighting his way through the enemy and leading the remaining members of the team, he maneuvered to the edge of a village undetected. As they prepared to leave the enemy position, they encountered an enemy search party. Unhesitatingly and without regard for his own safety, he ran across an open field to draw attention from the other team member, allowing him to escape. As a result he was taken prisoner by the enemy and killed before a relief force arrived. His outstanding courage and selfless efforts in behalf of others served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
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First Lieutenant William Michael Grammar (MCSN: 0-91923), United States Marine Corps, was captured in operations in South Vietnam on 20 May 1967 and was held as a Prisoner of War until he was executed by the enemy later that same day.