Robert H. Jenkins Jr., Medal of Honor Marine Who Shielded His Brothers

Nov 11 , 2025

Robert H. Jenkins Jr., Medal of Honor Marine Who Shielded His Brothers

The grenade landed in the dirt, then rolled—seconds away from ripping through the thin circle of brotherhood. Without hesitation, Robert H. Jenkins Jr. threw himself on the blast. His body took the shock, his last act a shield for those around him. That moment seared his name into the raw ledger of valor forever.

The Faith and Forge Behind the Soldier

Robert Hatch Jenkins Jr. was more than a Marine. Born in New York City on April 12, 1948, he grew up in a world that demanded grit and grace. His mother was a teacher; his father a quiet man who instilled in him the values of duty and sacrifice. Jenkins carried a deep-rooted faith, a rock in the brutal tempest of combat.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

The Scripture was no idle comfort but a lifeline. His faith framed every stitch of his Marine uniform, every battle he faced. He wasn’t seeking glory. He was answering a higher call—the call to serve, to protect, to be the shield his brothers needed.

The Battle That Defined Him

Vietnam. The thick jungle near Con Thien, South Vietnam, August 5, 1969. Jenkins, a Lance Corporal in Company C, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, was deep in the grind of Operation Virginia Ridge. The enemy was hidden, lethal, and closing fast.

The firefight was vicious and immediate. Jenkins moved with a fierce purpose, laying down cover fire, rallying men, and keeping the line intact. Suddenly, an enemy grenade landed just ahead of his fire team.

Without hesitation, Jenkins hurled his body upon the explosive. He absorbed the blast, sustaining massive wounds to his abdomen and chest but shielding his comrades from deadly fragmentation.

Even grievously wounded, Jenkins crawled forward, firing his rifle in defense. His actions blunted the enemy’s push, giving his unit precious seconds to regroup. He was evacuated but died from his injuries hours later.

Commanders called his act “one of the most heroic deeds ever witnessed on the battlefield.” His sacrifice wasn’t just valor; it was the ultimate bond, the selfless armor between life and death.

Recognition Etched in Sacrifice

Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Nixon on July 8, 1970[1], Jenkins joined the pantheon of American heroes whose names transcend time. His Medal of Honor citation states:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty... L/Cpl Jenkins deliberately threw himself on an enemy grenade to save the lives of his fellow Marines.”

His legacy was not measured by medals alone but by the enduring respect of those who fought beside him.

Sergeant Robert Cox, a fellow Marine at Con Thien, remembered him:

“Jenkins didn’t hesitate for a second. His instinct was to protect us all—even at the cost of his own life.”

The body of records, from Marine archives to award citations, stands as testament to a warrior’s undying commitment to his brothers in arms[2].

Legacy Written in Blood and Faith

Robert H. Jenkins Jr. left scars on the earth and imprints on souls. His story is not just about a moment’s bravery but a lifetime’s creed. In every Marine who dons the uniform, his sacrifice echoes—the weight of one man saving many.

His example forces veterans and civilians alike to confront the raw truth: courage is not the absence of fear, but the resolve to act in spite of it. It reminds us that redemption, in battle and life, is often written in sacrifice.

He gave his all so others might live.

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

Sources

1. Naval History and Heritage Command – Medal of Honor: Robert H. Jenkins Jr. 2. Headquarters Marine Corps, Marine Corps Gazette, 1970; Operation Virginia Ridge Unit Histories