VETERAN OF THE DAY
January 28, 2026
LCPL DOUGLAS MARTIN SOROKA
U.S. MARINE CORPS
June 22, 1948 – January 28, 1968
KILLED IN ACTION | VIETNAM WAR
BASIC INFORMATION
Name: Douglas Martin Soroka
Rank: Lance Corporal (LCpl)
Branch: United States Marine Corps
Unit: 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III MAF
Home of Record: Blackwood, New Jersey
Date of Birth: June 22, 1948
Date of Death: January 28, 1968
Age: 19
Casualty Province (Vietnam): Quang Tri Province
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Panel 35E, Line 57
HONORING HIS SERVICE
On January 28, 1968, Lance Corporal Douglas Martin Soroka was killed in action while serving with the United States Marine Corps in the Republic of Vietnam.
LCpl Soroka was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines during one of the most intense weeks in northern I Corps. As enemy forces increased pressure along the DMZ and throughout Quang Tri Province in the days leading up to the Tet Offensive, Marine units were engaged in aggressive patrols, defensive operations, and constant combat readiness.
At just 19 years old, LCpl Soroka stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow Marines in one of the most volatile regions of the war. His sacrifice came only days before the Tet Offensive erupted across South Vietnam, marking one of the most pivotal turning points of the conflict.
IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS
From Blackwood, New Jersey, to the rugged hills and contested ground of Quang Tri Province, Douglas Soroka represents the strength and resolve of a generation that answered the call without hesitation.
He was 19.
His name is permanently engraved on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., a solemn reminder that freedom is defended by ordinary young Americans who do extraordinary things.
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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 Douglas Martin Soroka, United States Marine Corps, who gave his life in Vietnam on January 28, 1968.
If you served with LCpl Soroka, knew his family, or have photos or memories you would like to share, please reach out so his story continues to be told.
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Honor the fallen. Support the living. Teach the next generation.
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