US Marine Corps Cpl George Jmaeff: Navy Cross Recipient Vietnam War

On March 1, 1969, during a fierce battle to seize Hill 484 in Vietnam, Corporal George Jmaeff’s platoon was pinned down by sniper and grenade fire from fortified enemy bunkers. Knowing a frontal assault meant heavy casualties, Jmaeff charged alone into enemy fire, destroying a bunker even after being seriously wounded. Refusing medical aid, he kept fighting and directed his men under fire. When another mortar barrage hit, Jmaeff ripped out his IV and ran to aid wounded Marines, only to be mortally wounded by another explosion. His selfless bravery helped secure the objective and inspired all who witnessed his final moments.

Navy Cross Citation:
For extraordinary heroism while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 1 March 1969. While Company C was attempting to seize Hill 484 north of the Rockpile, the lead platoon was pinned down by sniper fire and grenades from North Vietnamese Army soldiers who were acting as mortar forward observers and occupying well-fortified bunkers. Corporal Jmaeff, realizing that a frontal attack would produce excessive Marine casualties, directed three men to provide covering fire and, fully aware of the possible consequences of his daring action, initiated a lone assault on the hostile emplacements. Although seriously wounded by fragments of a hand grenade, he ignored his painful injuries and, resolutely obtaining his objective, destroyed the first enemy position. With the arrival of a reaction platoon, Corporal Jmaeff steadfastly refused medical treatment and continued to direct his men until ordered to receive medical aid. While his wounds were being tended, he observed several Marines injured during a new barrage of mortar fire and, tearing the intravenous fluid tube from his arm, unhesitatingly left his relatively secure location to aid his companions. As he dauntlessly struggled forward in a splendid display of valor, he was mortally wounded by the detonation of a mortar round. His heroic efforts and selfless concern for his fellowmen inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in his unit's securing the objective. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Corporal Jmaeff 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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Photos Courtesy Wikimedia Commons

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