KENTUCKY LEGENDS
Set forth below are biographies of Marines, who have either been born or have lived in the Commonwealth of Kentucky at some time during their lives, either as private citizens or on active duty, or have been interred in Kentucky following their death, and have distinguished themselves through exceptional and/or valorous service to their nation. Nominations for inclusion of additional Marines for this honor should be forwarded, with supporting documentation, to the Marine Corps Coordinating Council of Kentucky for its consideration
Presley N. O’Bannon
Presley N. O'Bannon On a lonely knoll in a Frankfort, Kentucky cemetery stands a simple stone marking the grave of the "Hero of Derne". It is among the final resting places of vice-presidents, senators, governors, artists, and scores of local…
Joe Calvin Paul (MOH)
Joe Calvin Paul (MOH) Lance Corporal Joe Calvin Paul (1946-1965) was a 19 year old U.S. Marine who lost his life after diverting an attack long enough to allow the evacuation of wounded Marines during Operation Starlight near Chu Lai,…
Wesley Phelps (MOH)
Wesley Phelps (MOH) Wesley Phelps (1923-1944) was a United States Marine who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions and sacrifice of life during the World War II Battle of Peleliu. Wesley Phelps was born in…
Luther Skaggs, Jr. (MOH)
Luther Skaggs, Jr. (MOH) Luther Skaggs, Jr. (3 March 1923- 6 April 1976) was a United States Marine who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions on the beachhead on Guam during World War II. Luther Skaggs,…
Franklin R. Sousley
Franklin R. Sousley Franklin Runyon Sousley was born at Flemingsburg, Kentucky, on 19 September 1925. After his graduation from high school in June 1943, he moved to Dayton, Ohio, where he secured a job with the Frigidaire Division of General…
