Sgt. Maj. John Canley 20 December 1937 – 11 May 2022
Sgt. Maj. John Canley: A Hero’s Journey from Hue City to Legacy
Sgt. Maj. John Canley is remembered today on his birthday and is immortalized in the annals of valor, received the prestigious Medal of Honor in 2018 for his extraordinary acts of heroism during the brutal Battle of Hue City in Vietnam, a testament to his indomitable spirit and selfless dedication to his fellow Marines.
During the harrowing days of January 31 to February 6, 1968, Sgt. Maj. Canley, serving as the company gunnery sergeant for Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, fearlessly led his unit through the treacherous streets of Hue City, braving relentless enemy attacks to rescue wounded comrades-in-arms.
With unwavering resolve, Sgt. Maj. Canley repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire, dashing across perilous terrain to evacuate injured Marines to safety, embodying the Marine Corps motto, Semper Fidelis – Always Faithful.
Assuming command after his company commander was gravely wounded, Sgt. Maj. Canley’s leadership became the cornerstone of Alpha Company’s resilience, as they valiantly fought to secure victory amidst the chaos and carnage of urban warfare.
With unparalleled courage, Sgt. Maj. Canley led his Marines in daring assaults against fortified enemy positions, his strategic acumen and battlefield prowess instrumental in turning the tide of battle in favor of his comrades.
On February 4, 1968, Sgt. Maj. Canley’s gallantry reached its zenith as he led a daring assault on an enemy-occupied building, personally engaging the enemy to neutralize their stronghold, a testament to his exceptional leadership under fire.
Throughout the ordeal, Sgt. Maj. Canley’s singular focus remained on the welfare of his Marines, his actions reflecting the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and earning him the adulation of his peers and superiors alike.
His illustrious military career, spanning from his enlistment in 1953 to his retirement as a sergeant major in 1981, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to duty and service to country.
Sgt. Maj. Canley’s legacy endures through the USS John L. Canley, a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and the values he embodied, ensuring that future generations will honor his memory and sacrifice.
On May 11, 2022, Sgt. Maj. John Canley passed away, leaving behind a legacy of courage, honor, and selflessness that will continue to inspire generations of Marines and Americans.
Sgt. Maj. John Canley was laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, a salute to a true American hero whose courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
