Robert H. Jenkins Jr., Medal of Honor Marine Who Fell on a Grenade

Jan 28 , 2026

Robert H. Jenkins Jr., Medal of Honor Marine Who Fell on a Grenade

Fire rained down like the Devil’s own wrath. The jungle around Robert H. Jenkins Jr. was alive with screams, the staccato of grenades, and the desperate rush of men trying to survive. Then, with no hesitation, Jenkins threw himself on a grenade to save his brothers-in-arms. The blast tore into him, fatally wounding the Marine, but buying the rest of his squad precious seconds of life. This act—raw courage painted in blood—is the heartbeat of his story.

Background & Faith

Robert Henry Jenkins Jr. was born in New York City on February 18, 1948, stepping into a world that already demanded grit. Raised in a working-class family, Jenkins carried with him a quiet strength grounded in faith and duty. The Marine Corps called to him—not as a ticket out, but as a path to something greater.

Faith was his armor before the rifle. Jenkins held tight to scripture, grounding himself in God’s purpose amid the chaos of war. His life was quietly threaded with the code of honor every warrior should live by: service before self.

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13

This verse was no hollow phrase for Jenkins. It was the mission statement he signed with flesh and blood.

The Battle That Defined Him

It was October 5, 1969, in the hills of Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam. Jenkins was a Private First Class assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. The squad was ambushed during a search-and-clear operation. The enemy struck first with mortars and small-arms fire, pinning the Marines down.

Amid the hellstorm, a live hand grenade landed among the group. The seconds stretched out—a heartbeat too long—as Jenkins shouted a warning. With the instincts drilled from endless training and the recklessness born of brotherhood, he dove onto the grenade.

The blast tore through Jenkins’ body, ripping out both legs and causing grave wounds throughout. Despite unbearable pain and blood loss, Jenkins maintained conscious awareness, fighting to stabilize his squad’s position until others could provide cover and medevac.

His actions saved at least four Marines from certain death, buying time and keeping the fire on the enemy. Jenkins never wavered. His was a sacrifice that demanded nothing less than total devotion to the men beside him.

Recognition

For his selfless heroism, Robert H. Jenkins Jr. was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously. The citation detailed the magnitude of his courage and the ultimate cost:

“By his exceptional courage, unwavering determination, and self-sacrifice, Private First Class Jenkins saved the lives of several wounded Marines. His valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Marine Corps.”

Commanders and comrades remembered Jenkins not just for his bravery, but for the humility in his sacrifice. Lt. Gen. Robert E. Cushman Jr. remarked, “Jenkins embodied the Marine spirit—steadfast, relentless, and selfless. His actions that day are a beacon for all who follow.”

His Medal of Honor was presented to his family by President Richard Nixon on April 1970, solidifying Jenkins’ place among the greatest heroes in Marine Corps history.

Legacy & Lessons

Robert Jenkins left behind more than medals and memories. His sacrifice carved a lesson into the soul of America’s fighting forces: true courage is measured by what you give, not what you take.

His story is a testament to the brutal truth soldiers face—death waits always at their heels. Yet Jenkins chose love over fear, life for others over his own.

In every scar lies a story of redemption. Jenkins’ sacrifice reminds us of the sacred bond forged in war—the will to protect brothers at all costs.

His life calls veterans and civilians alike to remember the cost of freedom and honor the price paid by warriors who carry scars unseen in quiet resolve.

Not all who wear the uniform survive to tell, but Robert H. Jenkins Jr. speaks forever in the language of sacrifice. His blood was the ink, his valor the words, writing a story still told in the hearts of those who fight.

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” — Matthew 5:9

Jenkins was not just a warrior; he was a peacemaker in the most brutal sense: laying down life itself for the chance of peace.

Sources

1. U.S. Marine Corps History Division – Medal of Honor Citations: Robert H. Jenkins Jr. 2. Department of Defense – Official citations and award records, 1969 Quang Nam operations 3. Nixon Presidential Library – Medal of Honor Presentation Ceremony transcript, April 1970 4. Cushman Jr., Robert E., Marine Corps Citations and Histories (USMC Archives)