James Albert Graham

[11] Congressional Medal of Honor recipient in Vietnam honored at Arlington National Cemetery

What is James Albert Graham known for?

James Albert Graham, born on August 25, 1940 in the suburb of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, is a commendable figure recognized for his exceptional service to the United States. After attending Gwynn Park High School in Brandywine, Maryland, Graham went on to achieve a B.A. degree in Mathematics from Frostburg State Teachers College in Frostburg, Maryland.

Graham had an extensive military career, having served the U.S. Army (1955–57), District of Columbia National Guard (1959–61), U.S. Army Reserve (1961), and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve (1961–63). He was discharged from the Marine Corps Reserve only to accept a regular appointment in the Marine Corps in 1963. During his time in the service, Graham attended several training programs such as the Officers Candidate School, Marine Corps Schools, and The Basic School, Marine Corps Schools, all based in Quantico, Virginia.

Graham further served in the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, the 2nd Marine Division, and participated in the American occupation of the Dominican Republic (1965–66). By November 1966, he joined the 2nd Replacement Company, Staging Battalion, Marine Corps Base, and was transferred to the Republic of Vietnam the next month. During his time in Vietnam, Graham served as Commanding Officer of both Company H and Company F.

His heroic actions during the Vietnam War have left an indelible mark in history. On June 2, 1967, during Operation Union II, Graham remained with a seriously wounded comrade, ultimately losing his own life. For his exceptional bravery and sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the highest U.S. military honor — the Medal of Honor. His other medals and decorations include the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, among others.

Graham, a true hero and an inspiration for many, now rests at the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. His life and service to the country have been captured in the book "Not Going Home Alone" by James J. Kirschke.