Administration

Trump to award Medal of Honor to retired Marine for service in Vietnam

President Trump will award the Medal of Honor next month to a retired Marine sergeant for his life-saving service in the Vietnam War.

{mosads}The White House announced Tuesday that Sgt. Major John L. Canley will receive the country’s highest military honor on Oct. 17 at the White House.

The award will honor Canley’s actions in early 1968, when he repeatedly took on enemy fire during missions to support ally forces and risked his safety to rescue wounded soldiers.

Canley fought off multiple enemy attacks as his company traveled toward Hue City, and carried wounded Marines to safety despite his own injuries, the White House said. He later took charge of his company after the commanding officer was severely wounded.

On Feb. 6, 1968, Canley, on two occasions, climbed a wall at a hospital compound in full view of the enemy in order to bring wounded Marines to safety, saving the lives of his fellow service members, the White House said.

Canley previously received the Navy Cross for his actions during the Battle of Hue City, as well as numerous other military honors.

Canley, who retired from the Marines in 1981, will be the sixth individual to receive the Medal of Honor from Trump and the third Vietnam War veteran.