Private First Class Robert Henry Jenkins, A Marine's Story
Private First Class Robert Henry Jenkins, A Marine's Story
Private First Class Robert Henry Jenkins was born on June 1, 1948, in Interlachen, Florida. Raised in Putnam County, he graduated from Central Academy High School in 1967 before choosing to serve his country during one of its most turbulent periods.
On February 2, 1968, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Following training, he was assigned to the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, an elite unit tasked with conducting deep reconnaissance missions, often operating in small teams far ahead of larger forces. Reconnaissance Marines regularly faced high-risk patrols in hostile terrain with limited support, relying on discipline, stealth, and unwavering trust in one another.
Private First Class Jenkins deployed to Vietnam in July 1968.
On March 5, 1969, during a reconnaissance operation, his team came under sudden, intense enemy fire. In the chaos of combat, an enemy grenade was thrown into the foxhole shared by Jenkins and another Marine. With only seconds to react, Private First Class Robert Henry Jenkins made a deliberate and selfless decision. He threw himself over his fellow Marine, shielding him from the explosion.
The grenade detonated beneath him.
His actions absorbed the full force of the blast, saving the life of the Marine beside him. For his extraordinary heroism, conspicuous gallantry, and complete disregard for his own safety above and beyond the call of duty, Private First Class Robert Henry Jenkins was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration.
He was just twenty years old.
Private First Class Robert Henry Jenkins rests at Sister Spring Baptist Cemetery in Interlachen, Florida. His life stands as a testament to the bond between Marines and the profound courage that can rise in a single decisive moment.
Some acts of bravery last a few seconds.
Their impact lasts generations.
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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.
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