VETERAN OF THE DAY
January 26, 2026
LCPL FREDERICK JOHN FALK JR
U.S. MARINE CORPS
August 22, 1947 – January 26, 1968
KILLED IN ACTION | VIETNAM WAR
BASIC INFORMATION
Name: Frederick John Falk Jr
Rank: Lance Corporal (LCpl)
Branch: United States Marine Corps
Unit: 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III MAF
Home of Record: Buffalo, New York
Date of Birth: August 22, 1947
Date of Death: January 26, 1968
Age: 20
Casualty Province (Vietnam): Quang Tri Province
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Panel 35E
Decorations: Silver Star (Posthumous), Purple Heart
HONORING HIS SERVICE
On January 26, 1968, Lance Corporal Frederick John Falk Jr was killed in action while serving with the United States Marine Corps in the Republic of Vietnam.
During heavy combat operations in Quang Tri Province, LCpl Falk distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism. According to his Silver Star citation, when a fellow Marine was seriously wounded in an exposed position under intense enemy fire, LCpl Falk moved forward without hesitation to render aid. Despite the volume of incoming fire, he attempted to shield and evacuate the wounded Marine.
In the process of protecting his fellow Marine, LCpl Falk was mortally wounded.
His actions reflected the highest traditions of the Marine Corps — courage under fire, devotion to comrades, and complete disregard for his own safety in order to save another.
He was 20 years old.
IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS
From Buffalo, New York, to the rugged hills of Quang Tri Province, Frederick Falk represents the quiet valor of young Americans who placed duty and brotherhood above self.
His courage was not abstract. It was personal. It was immediate. It was the kind of courage that runs toward danger when others are falling.
Today we speak his name not only as a Marine, but as a hero.
LINKS AND SOURCES
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund – Wall of Faces:
https://www.vvmf.org/Wall-of-Faces/15594/FREDERICK-J-FALK-JR/
Silver Star Citation (via VVMF page)
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The Micky Spano Show and mickyspano.com/ honor a Veteran of the Day, every day, because remembrance is not optional.
Today we honor LCpl Frederick John Falk Jr, United States Marine Corps, who gave his life in Vietnam on January 26, 1968.
If you served with LCpl Falk, knew his family, or have photos or memories you would like to share, please reach out so his story continues to be told.
Visit: https://mickyspano.com/
Honor the fallen. Support the living. Teach the next generation.
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