Southwest Virginia soldier’s heroic actions earn Medal of Honor

A fallen soldier from Southwest Virginia was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Donald Trump for saving thousands with an unbelievable act during the Vietnam War.

United States Marine Corp Captain John Ripley of Radford navigated a bridge by crossing hand over hand along bridge beams to set explosives to take out the structure and stop the advance of enemy forces–all while under direct fire in South Vietnam dangling over the water.

“…He hauled explosives, placed charges, and ran a primer cord to each one of them. He later recalled reciting a simple prayer: “Jesus, Mary, get me there. Just get me there,” the president said while describing Ripley’s actions.

Ripley’s award nomination was carried in Congress by 9th District congressman Morgan Griffith and members of his family including his son were at the White House to accept the honor.

(IMAGE: Office of U.S. House Rep. Morgan Griffith, (9th-VA)