Glenn Harry English Jr. stands among the bravest soldiers of the Vietnam War, a man whose courage and selflessness earned him the United States military’s highest decoration—the Medal of Honor. His story is one of sacrifice, leadership, and devotion to his fellow soldiers, ultimately laying down his life to save others.
Early Life and Struggles: Born on April 23, 1940, Glenn H. English Jr. grew up in Pennsylvania, where he forged the resilience and sense of duty that would later define his military career. Like many young men of his era, English was called to serve his country during one of its most difficult and controversial conflicts. His early years reflected the quiet strength and determination of someone who would go on to make the ultimate sacrifice.
Military Enlistment and Heroics: In 1962, English enlisted in the United States Army from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Over the years, he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant and became part of the elite airborne community. By 1970, he was serving with Company E, 3rd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade. Known for his leadership and bravery, English inspired those under his command, always putting the safety of his unit before his own.
Defining Moment: On September 7, 1970, while leading a four-vehicle column in Phu My District, Binh Dinh Province, Republic of Vietnam, English’s unit was ambushed. An enemy mine disabled his vehicle, and enemy forces opened fire with heavy weapons. Despite being wounded and his clothing set ablaze, English rallied his stunned men, leading them in a counterattack that successfully drove back the enemy and saved his unit from annihilation.
But his courage did not end there. Hearing the cries of three soldiers still trapped inside the burning armored personnel carrier, English ignored repeated warnings that the vehicle was seconds away from exploding. With no regard for his own safety, he climbed inside the vehicle to rescue his comrades. As he pulled one of the men toward safety, the carrier exploded, killing English and the men he was trying to save. He was just 30 years old.
Military Awards and Decorations: For his extraordinary heroism, Glenn H. English Jr. was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 1971. His full list of decorations reflects a life of valor and dedication:
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Medal of Honor
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Bronze Star Medal with one bronze oak leaf cluster (two awards)
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Purple Heart with one bronze oak leaf cluster (two awards)
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Air Medal
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Army Commendation Medal
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Army Good Conduct Medal with a bronze clasp and three loops
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Army of Occupation Medal (1945–1990)
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National Defense Service Medal
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Vietnam Service Medal with two silver campaign stars
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Vietnam Civil Actions Medal (First Class)
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Vietnam Campaign Medal with “60-” clasp
His badges included the Combat Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, and Basic Parachutist Badge, symbols of both skill and valor.
Staff Sergeant Glenn H. English Jr.’s story is one of unshakable courage and devotion to his comrades. In his final moments, he placed the lives of others above his own, embodying the true spirit of service and sacrifice. Today, he rests at Alto Reste Cemetery in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and is memorialized at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. His name and legacy live on as a reminder that valor has no greater expression than giving one’s life so others may live.