Private Ralph Ellis Dias, A Marine's Story
Private Ralph Ellis Dias, A Marine's Story
Following his initial training, Private Dias was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Marines. In April 1969, he transferred to the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines and deployed to Vietnam with Company D, serving during some of the most demanding ground operations of the war.
On November 12, 1969, while conducting a combat patrol in Quang Nam Province, Private Dias’ unit came under intense fire from a well-concealed enemy machine-gun bunker that pinned the Marines down at close range. Recognizing the threat to his fellow Marines, Private Dias repeatedly volunteered to assault the position.
Despite being severely wounded during his first two attempts, he continued forward under heavy fire. On his third assault, Private Dias destroyed the bunker with grenades, eliminating the enemy position and allowing his unit to move forward. The wounds he sustained in the action proved fatal.
For his extraordinary bravery, selflessness, and unwavering devotion to his comrades, Private Ralph Ellis Dias was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
Private Dias is laid to rest at Oaklawn Cemetery in Leetonia, Ohio. His sacrifice stands as a lasting testament to courage, duty, and the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps.
* Read about a.d. elliott's Everyday Patriot Project here*
_____________________________________________________________________________
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.
You can also browse her online photography gallery at shop.takethebackroads.com.
✨ #TakeTheBackRoads
Enjoyed this post? Support the adventure by visiting my sponsors, shopping the gallery, or buying me a cup of coffee!
