Texas-11 Medal of Honor Heroes

Last week we commemorated National Medal of Honor Day — honoring the remarkable Americans who earned the Medal of Honor based on their acts of courage and selflessness. Two of these exemplary heroes from Texas-11 grew up in Odessa: United States Marine Corps Private First Class Alfred “Mac” Wilson and United States Army Staff Sergeant Marvin R. Young.

Private First Class Wilson and Staff Sergeant Young both sacrificed their lives to save their fellow service members in the Vietnam War. Wilson threw himself on a grenade after braving enemy fire to help hold off an overwhelming enemy force. Young’s platoon leader was killed after his unit came under heavy fire. Young assumed command and endured multiple wounds, yet stayed behind and continued to provide covering fire so his platoon could escape. Both were posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for their actions. 

Our men and women in uniform sacrifice and serve our country with honor and integrity. Join me in remembering and honoring these heroes.