Veteran of the Day – Major Donald Joseph Reilly, USMC (Missouri)
Name: Donald Joseph Reilly.
Rank / Branch: Major, United States Marine Corps.
Unit: Marine Observation Squadron 2 (VMO-2), Marine Aircraft Group 16, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.
Date of Birth: February 20, 1929.
Home of Record: St. Louis, Missouri.
Date of Casualty: December 9, 1965.
Country / Province of Loss: Quango Tin Province, South Vietnam.
Wall Location: Panel 4E, Line 4 – Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C.
Major Donald J. Reilly was a Marine Corps helicopter pilot from St. Louis, Missouri, already a combat veteran of earlier conflicts when he went to Vietnam. In 1965, he flew UH-1 “Huey” missions with VMO-2. He supported Marines on the ground during some of the most brutal early fighting of the war.
In just a few months, Major Reilly earned a Navy Cross, Silver Star, and Distinguished Flying Cross. He received these awards for repeated acts of heroism under fire. At that time, this made him one of the most highly decorated Marines serving in the Vietnam War. On December 9, 1965, he served as an airborne coordinator. During this time, a Marine company on the ground called for emergency support. They needed medical evacuation. Despite heavy enemy fire, he brought his helicopter in low to cover the surrounded Marines. The night conditions were difficult. He attempted to land so wounded men could be lifted out.
As he approached the landing zone, his aircraft took intense small-arms fire. Major Reilly was mortally wounded and his helicopter crashed in the friendly perimeter. His actions delayed the enemy and helped prevent further casualties among the Marines on the ground. (Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund)
Major Reilly’s courage that night, and throughout his Vietnam service, reflects the highest traditions of the Marine Corps. Today, his name is engraved on the Wall in Washington. It is also remembered proudly in Missouri. A new generation continues to learn about his sacrifice.
mickyspano.com/ and The Micky Spano Show honor Major Donald Joseph Reilly, United States Marine Corps, as one of our Veterans of the Day. We remember his fearless devotion to saving others.
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