John M. Kmetz Sr, Corporal

A recipient of the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon and a Purple Heart, John M. Kmetz Sr is remembered by Cheryl Kmetz-Novas.

John Kmetz enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 1943 serving under Chesty Puller in the First Marine Division in the Pacific Theater of Operations. He was the recipient of the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon for outstanding heroism and a Purple Heart. Upon return to civilian life, he joined his wife and furthered his education to become a Chief Electrical Engineer. He resided in Hoffman Estates, IL and was an active lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion and the First Marine Division Association.

Book Dedicated: The Old Breed: A History of the First Marine Division in World War II by George McMillan