1 00:00:00,133 --> 00:00:02,885 - Welcome to the Pentagon and this unique ceremony 2 00:00:02,885 --> 00:00:04,926 in honor of Sergeant Major John L. Canley, 3 00:00:04,926 --> 00:00:07,534 United States Marine Corps Retired. 4 00:00:07,534 --> 00:00:10,113 In a ceremony held yesterday at the White House, 5 00:00:10,113 --> 00:00:11,906 the President of the United States 6 00:00:11,906 --> 00:00:14,875 present Sergeant Major Canley with our nation's highest 7 00:00:14,875 --> 00:00:18,072 and most prestigious military award for valor, 8 00:00:18,072 --> 00:00:19,655 the Medal of Honor. 9 00:00:20,324 --> 00:00:22,804 Today, we of the United States Marine Corps 10 00:00:22,804 --> 00:00:25,398 are privileged to pay tribute to this bravest of warriors 11 00:00:25,398 --> 00:00:27,779 by formally inducting him into 12 00:00:27,779 --> 00:00:32,196 the Pentagon's most sacred place, the Hall of Heroes. 13 00:00:32,381 --> 00:00:33,994 And now ladies and gentleman, 14 00:00:33,994 --> 00:00:38,244 please rise for the entrance of the official party. 15 00:01:17,421 --> 00:01:19,736 Please remain standing for the invocation, 16 00:01:19,736 --> 00:01:21,906 which will be delivered by the command chaplain 17 00:01:21,906 --> 00:01:24,565 for the Naval Air Weapons Station, China Lake, 18 00:01:24,565 --> 00:01:26,767 Lieutenant Commander Robert L. Kreb, 19 00:01:26,767 --> 00:01:29,684 Chaplain Corps, United States Navy. 20 00:01:33,881 --> 00:01:35,048 - Let us pray. 21 00:01:36,538 --> 00:01:40,421 Almighty God, in this Hall of Heroes induction ceremony 22 00:01:40,421 --> 00:01:42,722 in honor of Sergeant Major John Canley, 23 00:01:42,722 --> 00:01:44,467 hear our prayer today. 24 00:01:44,467 --> 00:01:47,126 From within the calm of this ceremony Lord, 25 00:01:47,126 --> 00:01:50,063 we consider the turbulence of that part of the universe 26 00:01:50,063 --> 00:01:52,397 of combat known as the Vietnam War 27 00:01:52,397 --> 00:01:56,064 so described in the Medal of Honor citation. 28 00:01:56,326 --> 00:01:58,806 Lord have mercy because it is a report 29 00:01:58,806 --> 00:02:01,426 from another clime and place when the Navy, 30 00:02:01,426 --> 00:02:04,965 Marine Corps combat team was engaged in sustained 31 00:02:04,965 --> 00:02:09,132 and intense interpersonal violence with the enemy. 32 00:02:09,290 --> 00:02:10,938 In the crucible of testing, 33 00:02:10,938 --> 00:02:13,413 the report of Sergeant Major's actions reveal a testimony 34 00:02:13,413 --> 00:02:16,630 of endurance when mental and physical stamina 35 00:02:16,630 --> 00:02:19,433 was measured by the ability to withstand pain, 36 00:02:19,433 --> 00:02:21,850 fatigue, stress and hardship. 37 00:02:22,289 --> 00:02:25,991 Lord have mercy because we pray that our words 38 00:02:25,991 --> 00:02:28,683 somehow do justice and that our high respect 39 00:02:28,683 --> 00:02:31,864 in some way consecrates the fearless actions 40 00:02:31,864 --> 00:02:35,031 of John Canley and the Marines he led. 41 00:02:35,257 --> 00:02:38,014 In your righteousness Holy God, humbly we pray, 42 00:02:38,014 --> 00:02:41,113 respectfully we ask and on bended knee, 43 00:02:41,113 --> 00:02:44,613 provoke us Sergeant Major Canley's actions 44 00:02:45,208 --> 00:02:47,589 to make the very obsession of our service 45 00:02:47,589 --> 00:02:50,395 to the honor, courage and commitment. 46 00:02:50,395 --> 00:02:54,364 Charge us Lord here in Sergeant Major John Canley's 47 00:02:54,364 --> 00:02:57,608 Medal of Honor the voices of honored warriors 48 00:02:57,608 --> 00:03:02,566 who've gone before us, which we are now called to represent. 49 00:03:02,566 --> 00:03:04,835 Finally God, let the report of Sergeant Major's 50 00:03:04,835 --> 00:03:08,622 Medal of Honor inspire warriors not only to become 51 00:03:08,622 --> 00:03:11,504 the personification of the will to win, 52 00:03:11,504 --> 00:03:14,254 but to hold fast to what is good, 53 00:03:14,267 --> 00:03:18,187 always a safeguard for freedom and guarding of peace 54 00:03:18,187 --> 00:03:22,238 and security for our nation according to thy will Lord. 55 00:03:22,238 --> 00:03:23,071 Amen. 56 00:03:26,735 --> 00:03:29,001 - And now ladies and gentleman, please stand by 57 00:03:29,001 --> 00:03:30,741 for the singing of our National Anthem, 58 00:03:30,741 --> 00:03:33,011 which will be performed by the baritone vocalist 59 00:03:33,011 --> 00:03:35,363 of the president's own United States Marine Band, 60 00:03:35,363 --> 00:03:37,863 Master Sergeant Kevin Bennear. 61 00:03:47,722 --> 00:03:52,722 ♪ Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light ♪ 62 00:04:00,856 --> 00:04:05,856 ♪ What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming ♪ 63 00:04:12,234 --> 00:04:16,929 ♪ Whose broad stripes and bright stars ♪ 64 00:04:16,929 --> 00:04:21,929 ♪ Through the perilous fight ♪ 65 00:04:22,979 --> 00:04:27,979 ♪ Over the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming ♪ 66 00:04:33,798 --> 00:04:38,798 ♪ And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air ♪ 67 00:04:41,959 --> 00:04:46,193 ♪ Gave proof through the night ♪ 68 00:04:46,193 --> 00:04:51,193 ♪ That our flag was still there ♪ 69 00:04:53,518 --> 00:04:58,518 ♪ Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave ♪ 70 00:05:03,189 --> 00:05:08,189 ♪ Over the land of the free and the home of the brave ♪ 71 00:05:21,520 --> 00:05:25,770 (audience applauding and cheering) 72 00:05:28,358 --> 00:05:31,775 - Ladies and gentleman, please be seated. 73 00:05:34,264 --> 00:05:36,595 Ladies and gentlemen, the commandant of the Marine Corps, 74 00:05:36,595 --> 00:05:38,678 General Robert B. Neller. 75 00:05:43,693 --> 00:05:45,614 - Well, good afternoon everyone. 76 00:05:45,614 --> 00:05:48,024 Secretary Shanahan, Secretary Spencer, 77 00:05:48,024 --> 00:05:51,191 Sergeant Major Canley, family friends, 78 00:05:51,588 --> 00:05:53,569 fellow Marine service members, 79 00:05:53,569 --> 00:05:57,081 thanks for joining us today at the Pentagon. 80 00:05:57,081 --> 00:05:59,130 Yesterday was truly a special day, 81 00:05:59,130 --> 00:06:01,601 special for Sergeant Major Canley and his family, 82 00:06:01,601 --> 00:06:06,201 special for our Marine Corps, and special for our nation. 83 00:06:06,201 --> 00:06:08,737 Over 50 years after one of the most historic battles 84 00:06:08,737 --> 00:06:12,091 in our nation's history, the Battle of Huế City, 85 00:06:12,091 --> 00:06:13,934 we witness Sergeant Major Canley receive 86 00:06:13,934 --> 00:06:17,131 our nation's highest valor award, the Medal of Honor. 87 00:06:17,131 --> 00:06:20,440 And today we're here to induct Sergeant Major Canley 88 00:06:20,440 --> 00:06:21,841 to the Pentagon Hall of Heroes, 89 00:06:21,841 --> 00:06:24,959 another momentous occasion which will etch his legacy 90 00:06:24,959 --> 00:06:28,141 into the walls of this building forever. 91 00:06:28,141 --> 00:06:31,135 So to Sergeant Major Canley, your family, your friends 92 00:06:31,135 --> 00:06:33,764 and all those in attendance, we're humbled to host you 93 00:06:33,764 --> 00:06:36,364 and privileged to share this day with you. 94 00:06:36,364 --> 00:06:38,317 I'd like to special, I didn't expect 95 00:06:38,317 --> 00:06:41,670 the Alpha 1/1 guys to be so rowdy yesterday. 96 00:06:41,670 --> 00:06:46,337 So that was fun, but for me to see you and General Smith 97 00:06:50,291 --> 00:06:52,530 and anybody else in here who served in Vietnam 98 00:06:52,530 --> 00:06:55,780 and you raised, you raised this Marine. 99 00:06:58,329 --> 00:07:00,912 And so thanks and welcome home. 100 00:07:03,413 --> 00:07:07,663 (audience applauding and cheering) 101 00:07:11,103 --> 00:07:14,896 So it's been 50 years this February, this past February 102 00:07:14,896 --> 00:07:18,266 since the Tet Offensive in the Battle of Huế, 103 00:07:18,266 --> 00:07:21,749 a location where these acts of valor took place 104 00:07:21,749 --> 00:07:23,983 and that we recognize today. 105 00:07:23,983 --> 00:07:27,566 The virtues of the men, Marines that fought 106 00:07:27,905 --> 00:07:30,210 in that historic battle remain true today, 107 00:07:30,210 --> 00:07:34,543 virtues of selfless sacrifice, love, honor, courage, 108 00:07:34,747 --> 00:07:36,580 fortitude, discipline. 109 00:07:37,282 --> 00:07:40,282 And though it's 50 years had passed, 110 00:07:40,740 --> 00:07:43,560 those things have not dulled with age or diminished 111 00:07:43,560 --> 00:07:45,643 with the passing of time. 112 00:07:45,789 --> 00:07:47,350 Instead, on a day like today, 113 00:07:47,350 --> 00:07:49,574 they shine maybe even more brightly when we pay tribute 114 00:07:49,574 --> 00:07:52,137 to the generation of heroes that fill the pages 115 00:07:52,137 --> 00:07:54,169 of our Corps' glorious history 116 00:07:54,169 --> 00:07:58,086 and inspire today's force through their legacy. 117 00:07:58,705 --> 00:08:02,455 So today among our most distinguished Marines 118 00:08:02,768 --> 00:08:06,203 we grew up admiring and hearing about and reading about 119 00:08:06,203 --> 00:08:11,203 and aspiring to be, the John Basilones, the Mitchell Paiges, 120 00:08:11,794 --> 00:08:14,711 the Dan Dalys, the Smedley Butlers, 121 00:08:15,038 --> 00:08:17,871 we add Sergeant Major John Canley. 122 00:08:18,850 --> 00:08:21,795 So of all the remarks and stories you're gonna hear today, 123 00:08:21,795 --> 00:08:24,795 the reading of the citation, I mean, 124 00:08:25,260 --> 00:08:27,546 there's not enough time to talk about what happened 125 00:08:27,546 --> 00:08:31,796 with that unit from 31 January to 6 February, 1968. 126 00:08:36,443 --> 00:08:39,908 I mean, I've read the accounts, I've read your statements, 127 00:08:39,908 --> 00:08:43,408 I read what you said, and across the board 128 00:08:44,540 --> 00:08:46,873 they all say the same thing. 129 00:08:47,059 --> 00:08:49,559 John Canley, gunny, the gunny. 130 00:08:50,997 --> 00:08:53,914 He was responsible for saving lives 131 00:08:54,698 --> 00:08:56,037 and accomplishing the mission. 132 00:08:56,037 --> 00:08:58,167 He was the one who refused to take cover. 133 00:08:58,167 --> 00:08:59,835 When everyone else was pinned down, 134 00:08:59,835 --> 00:09:02,620 he stood tall and continued to direct the action, 135 00:09:02,620 --> 00:09:05,787 for three days as a company commander. 136 00:09:06,653 --> 00:09:09,913 Story after story of Marines being pulled to safety 137 00:09:09,913 --> 00:09:12,420 or pulled out of buildings, out of the field of fire 138 00:09:12,420 --> 00:09:15,238 by gunny Canley who then rendered aid, 139 00:09:15,238 --> 00:09:19,112 encouragement to them before he entered back into the fight. 140 00:09:19,112 --> 00:09:21,396 Complete and utter disregard for his own safety 141 00:09:21,396 --> 00:09:23,207 while advancing towards the enemy, 142 00:09:23,207 --> 00:09:25,191 shielding the bodies of his comrades, 143 00:09:25,191 --> 00:09:26,766 recovering them from the battlefield 144 00:09:26,766 --> 00:09:29,349 and always inspiring everybody. 145 00:09:31,043 --> 00:09:34,130 So John Canley was not just the company gunny, 146 00:09:34,130 --> 00:09:35,463 he was the hero. 147 00:09:36,588 --> 00:09:38,131 And that we gather here today to honor 148 00:09:38,131 --> 00:09:40,100 that week of conspicuous gallantry, 149 00:09:40,100 --> 00:09:43,423 the truth is we can never do it justice by talking about it, 150 00:09:43,423 --> 00:09:47,340 although we have to continue to tell the story. 151 00:09:47,739 --> 00:09:50,496 And there's a lot of the story that in the hearts and minds 152 00:09:50,496 --> 00:09:53,016 of the Marines that are here probably will never 153 00:09:53,016 --> 00:09:57,255 be totally told because they're probably the only ones 154 00:09:57,255 --> 00:09:59,994 that are properly authorized to share it 155 00:09:59,994 --> 00:10:01,827 because they lived it. 156 00:10:02,356 --> 00:10:04,939 But we need to tell that story. 157 00:10:05,301 --> 00:10:08,218 Now for decades, all these accounts 158 00:10:08,625 --> 00:10:10,769 of Sergeant Major Canley's actions, 159 00:10:10,769 --> 00:10:13,098 I don't know they were overlooked, 160 00:10:13,098 --> 00:10:16,074 but I don't think they were appreciated 161 00:10:16,074 --> 00:10:19,100 because so much of the sacrifice during that fight 162 00:10:19,100 --> 00:10:21,099 vanished with many of the Marines 163 00:10:21,099 --> 00:10:23,849 that are no longer with us today. 164 00:10:24,029 --> 00:10:27,808 I mean, by the time Alpha Company was pulled out of Huế City 165 00:10:27,808 --> 00:10:30,960 maybe around 10 of the Marines from the original force 166 00:10:30,960 --> 00:10:33,323 that went in were left standing. 167 00:10:33,323 --> 00:10:36,045 And those casualty evacuations hampered efforts 168 00:10:36,045 --> 00:10:39,857 to obtain eye witness accounts and put together the story 169 00:10:39,857 --> 00:10:43,190 and do all the proper award submissions. 170 00:10:43,204 --> 00:10:45,756 Even more importantly, or significantly, 171 00:10:45,756 --> 00:10:47,662 Sergeant Major Canley spent his time and energy 172 00:10:47,662 --> 00:10:51,426 ensuring his Marines received the recognition they deserved. 173 00:10:51,426 --> 00:10:54,434 He was never one to speak of his own actions. 174 00:10:54,434 --> 00:10:56,261 Instead of telling stories about himself, 175 00:10:56,261 --> 00:10:59,364 he selflessly turned the spotlight on the Marines who fought 176 00:10:59,364 --> 00:11:02,281 with him like Sergeant Alfredo Gonzalez, 177 00:11:02,281 --> 00:11:05,198 who laid down his life in Huế City. 178 00:11:06,531 --> 00:11:08,941 Sergeant Major Canley would go on being a leading advocate 179 00:11:08,941 --> 00:11:13,020 for the award of the Medal of Honor to Sargent Gonzalez, 180 00:11:13,020 --> 00:11:16,739 all the while downplaying his role on that day. 181 00:11:16,739 --> 00:11:20,706 Now they're together here in the Hall of Heroes. 182 00:11:20,706 --> 00:11:24,408 So Sergeant Major, fellow Marines refuse to rest 183 00:11:24,408 --> 00:11:26,756 until you're recognized as the hero 184 00:11:26,756 --> 00:11:29,920 they remember and revere, and because of their efforts 185 00:11:29,920 --> 00:11:32,331 and commitments of these Marines of Alpha 1/1, 186 00:11:32,331 --> 00:11:35,998 we know now the amazing deeds you performed. 187 00:11:36,112 --> 00:11:39,276 We all know the motto of our Corps is semper fidelis, 188 00:11:39,276 --> 00:11:40,609 always faithful. 189 00:11:40,898 --> 00:11:43,230 You lived that example in Vietnam 190 00:11:43,230 --> 00:11:46,066 and we are for that, forever grateful. 191 00:11:46,066 --> 00:11:48,746 And I could think of no better example of semper fidelis 192 00:11:48,746 --> 00:11:50,964 than the faithfulness of your fellow Marines 193 00:11:50,964 --> 00:11:52,793 to fight for over decades to ensure 194 00:11:52,793 --> 00:11:56,543 that you are now recognized for your actions. 195 00:11:56,680 --> 00:11:59,311 Now your story will be told to future generations 196 00:11:59,311 --> 00:12:02,978 of Americans and Marines and will inspire us 197 00:12:03,171 --> 00:12:04,671 for years to come. 198 00:12:04,937 --> 00:12:08,509 So it's a great honor for me to be here with you. 199 00:12:08,509 --> 00:12:12,148 The medal that you have been awarded is much a testament 200 00:12:12,148 --> 00:12:15,397 to your actions as it is to the faithfulness of the Marines 201 00:12:15,397 --> 00:12:17,551 to see that are properly honored. 202 00:12:17,551 --> 00:12:19,409 And I cannot tell you how proud and grateful I am 203 00:12:19,409 --> 00:12:22,496 for everything you've done and continue to do. 204 00:12:22,496 --> 00:12:25,630 So Sergeant Major, welcome to the Hall of Heroes. 205 00:12:25,630 --> 00:12:26,880 Semper fidelis. 206 00:12:27,741 --> 00:12:30,908 (audience applauding) 207 00:12:40,751 --> 00:12:42,735 - Ladies and gentlemen, the Secretary of the Navy, 208 00:12:42,735 --> 00:12:45,485 the Honorable Richard V. Spencer. 209 00:12:52,598 --> 00:12:57,098 - Deputy Secretary Shanahan, Commandant, General Base, 210 00:12:59,056 --> 00:13:01,889 especially distinguished veterans, 211 00:13:02,189 --> 00:13:04,689 the Canley family and friends, 212 00:13:06,156 --> 00:13:08,488 the job of Secretary of the Navy has its highs and lows. 213 00:13:08,488 --> 00:13:09,858 I'll tell you that honestly, 214 00:13:09,858 --> 00:13:13,280 but today is truly one of those days that's a high. 215 00:13:13,280 --> 00:13:15,613 This is an inspiring moment. 216 00:13:15,783 --> 00:13:18,366 Sergeant Major, it's about you. 217 00:13:19,025 --> 00:13:21,056 The moment you stepped forward to serve, 218 00:13:21,056 --> 00:13:25,306 you earned the pride and the gratitude of a nation. 219 00:13:26,711 --> 00:13:28,523 But the valor and professionalism 220 00:13:28,523 --> 00:13:32,440 that you demonstrated in Huế, the Battle of Huế 221 00:13:32,680 --> 00:13:36,763 after taking that step forward earned you a place 222 00:13:37,847 --> 00:13:40,414 in the heart of every American. 223 00:13:40,414 --> 00:13:43,111 Because of the actions that earned you your place 224 00:13:43,111 --> 00:13:46,557 on our wall in the Pentagon, there are other names 225 00:13:46,557 --> 00:13:48,843 that will never have to be carved on a wall 226 00:13:48,843 --> 00:13:50,260 across the river. 227 00:13:50,970 --> 00:13:55,720 And for that, we owe you a debt of gratitude as a nation. 228 00:13:57,252 --> 00:14:00,419 Grace under fire, calm under pressure, 229 00:14:00,939 --> 00:14:04,272 easy words to use in a quiet auditorium. 230 00:14:05,712 --> 00:14:09,869 It's another entirely thing to demonstrate those qualities 231 00:14:09,869 --> 00:14:12,152 faced with a determined and invisible enemy 232 00:14:12,152 --> 00:14:14,152 in a crowded urban area. 233 00:14:15,160 --> 00:14:17,239 It takes a special type of person 234 00:14:17,239 --> 00:14:20,739 to assume leadership in the face of chaos. 235 00:14:22,216 --> 00:14:25,729 It takes a certain depth of character, ladies and gentlemen, 236 00:14:25,729 --> 00:14:29,399 to put yourself into harm's way for your fellow warriors. 237 00:14:29,399 --> 00:14:32,316 It takes a level of professionalism 238 00:14:32,423 --> 00:14:35,840 to remember your training without rushing 239 00:14:36,250 --> 00:14:38,750 or faltering while under fire. 240 00:14:40,865 --> 00:14:43,198 In short, it takes a Marine. 241 00:14:45,118 --> 00:14:48,285 There's something intrinsic in our DNA 242 00:14:48,724 --> 00:14:52,307 that enables those Marines to do what many, 243 00:14:52,835 --> 00:14:54,502 what most do not do. 244 00:14:56,271 --> 00:15:00,271 Marines run towards the sound of fire, not away. 245 00:15:01,153 --> 00:15:03,570 Marines run to those in need. 246 00:15:04,916 --> 00:15:08,249 You do not look away and you do not hope 247 00:15:08,759 --> 00:15:11,342 that someone else does the job. 248 00:15:12,161 --> 00:15:13,626 The Marines do the job, 249 00:15:13,626 --> 00:15:16,541 and that's exactly what Sergeant Major Canley did. 250 00:15:16,541 --> 00:15:19,847 That's what every Vietnam veteran in this room did, 251 00:15:19,847 --> 00:15:23,881 and on behalf of the nation, the Navy, the Marine Corps, 252 00:15:23,881 --> 00:15:26,298 I just want to say thank you. 253 00:15:27,062 --> 00:15:27,895 Thank you. 254 00:15:29,567 --> 00:15:34,234 It's long overdue and we cannot repeat thank you enough. 255 00:15:35,709 --> 00:15:37,677 Thank you for your valor. 256 00:15:37,677 --> 00:15:40,292 Thank you for your service to the United States of America 257 00:15:40,292 --> 00:15:42,709 and thank you Sergeant Major, 258 00:15:42,925 --> 00:15:45,679 for your service to the United States Marine Corps. 259 00:15:45,679 --> 00:15:46,512 Semper fi. 260 00:15:47,316 --> 00:15:50,483 (audience applauding) 261 00:16:00,674 --> 00:16:02,642 - And now ladies and gentlemen, the Deputy Secretary 262 00:16:02,642 --> 00:16:06,225 of Defense, the Honorable Patrick Shanahan. 263 00:16:07,909 --> 00:16:08,742 - Great. 264 00:16:09,074 --> 00:16:10,324 Good afternoon. 265 00:16:11,153 --> 00:16:13,752 Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 266 00:16:13,752 --> 00:16:17,028 family and friends, thank you for being here 267 00:16:17,028 --> 00:16:19,407 to welcome Sargent Major John Canley 268 00:16:19,407 --> 00:16:23,074 to his rightful place in the Hall of Heroes. 269 00:16:23,991 --> 00:16:26,699 I want to offer a special welcome to his family, 270 00:16:26,699 --> 00:16:30,782 who I had the honor of spending time with earlier 271 00:16:31,298 --> 00:16:34,307 and his teammates from Alpha Company, First Battalion, 272 00:16:34,307 --> 00:16:36,140 First Marine Regiment. 273 00:16:37,000 --> 00:16:39,993 It is an honor to be with you today. 274 00:16:39,993 --> 00:16:42,243 Thank you for your service. 275 00:16:42,686 --> 00:16:46,766 Let's also take a moment to remember those we have lost. 276 00:16:46,766 --> 00:16:50,599 They are never forgotten by John or any of us. 277 00:16:51,175 --> 00:16:54,508 They are tied to this day, this ceremony 278 00:16:55,195 --> 00:16:57,195 and this Medal of Honor. 279 00:16:57,698 --> 00:17:02,281 Today is special because today we take pause to reflect 280 00:17:02,673 --> 00:17:06,256 on the solidness of the military profession 281 00:17:06,424 --> 00:17:09,507 and the greatness of those who serve, 282 00:17:10,282 --> 00:17:13,615 expanding our awareness and appreciation 283 00:17:14,455 --> 00:17:17,538 for the incredible talent and courage 284 00:17:17,904 --> 00:17:20,487 of our men and women in uniform 285 00:17:21,732 --> 00:17:26,149 and their commitment to each other and to our nation. 286 00:17:27,308 --> 00:17:30,631 Today is an opportunity to deepen our understanding 287 00:17:30,631 --> 00:17:34,131 of the true meaning of courage and service 288 00:17:34,285 --> 00:17:37,718 and honor the rare people who embody them. 289 00:17:37,718 --> 00:17:41,104 There are many valorous stories of combat, 290 00:17:41,104 --> 00:17:43,937 but the Medal of Honor is special, 291 00:17:44,118 --> 00:17:48,201 awarded only to those who knowingly and willingly 292 00:17:48,287 --> 00:17:51,954 sacrifice themselves to save another's life. 293 00:17:53,973 --> 00:17:57,564 For who can truly understand the courage and selflessness 294 00:17:57,564 --> 00:18:00,897 it took for John to walk into enemy fire 295 00:18:01,298 --> 00:18:03,345 or climb over a wall fully exposed 296 00:18:03,345 --> 00:18:07,095 to pick up a fallen comrade, risking his life 297 00:18:07,235 --> 00:18:11,318 again and again for the chance to save another's. 298 00:18:11,834 --> 00:18:14,622 And the thing about Sergeant Major Canley is that 299 00:18:14,622 --> 00:18:18,539 it wasn't just about this day or any other day. 300 00:18:19,317 --> 00:18:23,710 As his fellow Marines discovered in the years after the war, 301 00:18:23,710 --> 00:18:26,543 everyone had a gunny Canley story. 302 00:18:28,152 --> 00:18:31,475 Quote, "And it wasn't 10 guys telling the same story. 303 00:18:31,475 --> 00:18:35,058 "It was 10 guys telling different stories." 304 00:18:35,587 --> 00:18:40,337 All of the times John had risked his life to save theirs. 305 00:18:41,020 --> 00:18:44,552 He was the leader that never ducked, never ran. 306 00:18:44,552 --> 00:18:49,302 He just got into the zone and did what needed to be done. 307 00:18:49,417 --> 00:18:54,125 Where does that courage come from, we often ask ourselves. 308 00:18:54,125 --> 00:18:58,676 Ask the Marines who fought under him and they'll tell you, 309 00:18:58,676 --> 00:19:01,843 that's just the kind of leader he was. 310 00:19:02,961 --> 00:19:07,794 Quote, "A special human being who never wanted any credit. 311 00:19:08,838 --> 00:19:12,698 "Someone who just wanted to take care of the Marines." 312 00:19:12,698 --> 00:19:16,900 Quote, "The type of leader who has already up in front 313 00:19:16,900 --> 00:19:19,751 "of you when," and I'm gonna paraphrase here, 314 00:19:19,751 --> 00:19:21,668 when stuff hit the fan. 315 00:19:22,290 --> 00:19:23,485 (audience laughing) 316 00:19:23,485 --> 00:19:28,068 Quote, "A soft, quiet spoken leader who showed devotion 317 00:19:29,958 --> 00:19:31,791 "and love to his men." 318 00:19:32,965 --> 00:19:37,108 As John Legado says, "You could really feel the love. 319 00:19:37,108 --> 00:19:40,605 "He loved his Marines and we loved him back." 320 00:19:40,605 --> 00:19:44,715 It was this love that fortified his men as they fought, 321 00:19:44,715 --> 00:19:48,215 this time through bureaucracy for 15 years 322 00:19:48,291 --> 00:19:53,124 to get their leader the recognition they knew he deserved. 323 00:19:54,103 --> 00:19:57,411 Ask his daughter, Patricia, and she'll tell you 324 00:19:57,411 --> 00:20:01,161 that his courage comes from his selflessness. 325 00:20:03,143 --> 00:20:07,081 Quote, "It's always been about the people he leads," 326 00:20:07,081 --> 00:20:09,248 she said, "not about him." 327 00:20:10,325 --> 00:20:12,991 "That's where his fearlessness comes from. 328 00:20:12,991 --> 00:20:16,075 "It's similar to the way a parent pushes through fears 329 00:20:16,075 --> 00:20:18,879 "because of the love they have for their child," 330 00:20:18,879 --> 00:20:19,962 she explains. 331 00:20:20,564 --> 00:20:24,397 That's how her father feels about the Marines. 332 00:20:24,754 --> 00:20:28,944 For him, being a leader isn't about being in charge, 333 00:20:28,944 --> 00:20:33,277 it's about taking care of the people in your charge. 334 00:20:34,550 --> 00:20:37,889 Ask Sergeant Major Canley where his courage came from 335 00:20:37,889 --> 00:20:41,389 and he'll tell you it's all about his men. 336 00:20:41,937 --> 00:20:43,387 "I didn't worry too much about 337 00:20:43,387 --> 00:20:46,473 "what would happen to me or the enemy. 338 00:20:46,473 --> 00:20:49,640 "All my worries were about my troops." 339 00:20:50,458 --> 00:20:55,375 Because being a leader is about taking care of your people. 340 00:20:55,388 --> 00:20:58,721 This award, he insists, isn't about him. 341 00:21:00,430 --> 00:21:04,472 It's about the young Marines that sacrifice so much. 342 00:21:04,472 --> 00:21:06,504 "They are the medal," he says, 343 00:21:06,504 --> 00:21:09,308 "I just happened to be their leader." 344 00:21:09,308 --> 00:21:13,975 John, your whole hearted focus on and devotion to others 345 00:21:15,924 --> 00:21:18,333 has shown throughout your life. 346 00:21:18,333 --> 00:21:20,853 From the day you used your brother's birth certificate 347 00:21:20,853 --> 00:21:24,436 to enlist 21 days before your 16th birthday 348 00:21:24,602 --> 00:21:28,366 in El Dorado, Arkansas, because you were determined 349 00:21:28,366 --> 00:21:32,283 to be a part of something bigger than yourself. 350 00:21:32,935 --> 00:21:36,809 You showed it as a warrior and a leader in Vietnam, 351 00:21:36,809 --> 00:21:40,906 one who took the time to understand what each of his men 352 00:21:40,906 --> 00:21:44,656 needed to succeed and taught the 18-year-olds 353 00:21:45,755 --> 00:21:48,465 in your charge everything from how to shave 354 00:21:48,465 --> 00:21:51,965 and how to fight and save their own lives. 355 00:21:53,126 --> 00:21:55,410 You showed it as a recruiter after the war 356 00:21:55,410 --> 00:21:58,875 as you approached the young adults as individuals 357 00:21:58,875 --> 00:22:02,593 speaking to them about the type of lives they wanted to live 358 00:22:02,593 --> 00:22:06,676 and how the Marine Corps could help them succeed. 359 00:22:06,703 --> 00:22:10,329 And you showed it as a loving and observant father 360 00:22:10,329 --> 00:22:14,162 and now grandfather, one who listened closely, 361 00:22:14,673 --> 00:22:17,131 picked up on the small things going on 362 00:22:17,131 --> 00:22:21,241 in your children's lives, showed them how to be successful 363 00:22:21,241 --> 00:22:24,533 and encouraged them to pursue their passions 364 00:22:24,533 --> 00:22:27,525 because you know that doing what you love 365 00:22:27,525 --> 00:22:32,025 makes you successful and happy, not the big paychecks. 366 00:22:33,291 --> 00:22:37,622 Sergeant Major Canley, you are the definition of servant, 367 00:22:37,622 --> 00:22:42,110 so devoted to your country, to the Marines and to others 368 00:22:42,110 --> 00:22:46,110 that you are willing to sacrifice your own life. 369 00:22:46,253 --> 00:22:49,546 And the medal and ribbon you wear reflect 370 00:22:49,546 --> 00:22:53,963 American peoples' understanding of a certain paradox. 371 00:22:54,900 --> 00:22:58,916 We only become truly great when we make ourselves 372 00:22:58,916 --> 00:23:00,749 the servant of others. 373 00:23:02,555 --> 00:23:06,222 Your actions resonate across time and place, 374 00:23:07,060 --> 00:23:10,227 inspiring young men and women to serve 375 00:23:11,034 --> 00:23:15,617 and fortifying our trust in ourselves, in our humanity, 376 00:23:16,574 --> 00:23:19,491 in our military, and in our nation. 377 00:23:21,044 --> 00:23:24,294 I am honored to stand beside you today. 378 00:23:24,763 --> 00:23:28,680 Congratulations and thank you for your service. 379 00:23:29,440 --> 00:23:32,607 Our nation is forever indebted to you. 380 00:23:33,220 --> 00:23:34,053 Thank you. 381 00:23:34,527 --> 00:23:37,694 (audience applauding) 382 00:23:50,530 --> 00:23:52,986 - At this time, we would like to invite Secretary Spencer, 383 00:23:52,986 --> 00:23:55,460 General Neller, the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, 384 00:23:55,460 --> 00:23:56,955 Sergeant Major Ronald L. Green, 385 00:23:56,955 --> 00:23:59,161 along with Sergeant Major Canley to join 386 00:23:59,161 --> 00:24:00,704 the Deputy Secretary of Defense on stage 387 00:24:00,704 --> 00:24:04,217 for the official unveiling of the Hall of Heroes 388 00:24:04,217 --> 00:24:06,467 inscription to our honoree. 389 00:24:15,007 --> 00:24:17,116 The President of the United States of America, 390 00:24:17,116 --> 00:24:21,116 authorized by act of Congress, October 17, 2018, 391 00:24:22,613 --> 00:24:26,741 has awarded in the name of Congress the Medal of Honor 392 00:24:26,741 --> 00:24:29,658 to Gunnery Sergeant John L. Canley, 393 00:24:30,332 --> 00:24:33,689 United States Marine Corps, for service as set forth 394 00:24:33,689 --> 00:24:35,856 in the following citation: 395 00:24:37,403 --> 00:24:40,474 For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity 396 00:24:40,474 --> 00:24:44,240 at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty 397 00:24:44,240 --> 00:24:46,855 in action against the enemy while serving 398 00:24:46,855 --> 00:24:50,083 as Company Gunnery Sergeant, Company A, First Battalion, 399 00:24:50,083 --> 00:24:52,083 First Marines, First Marine Division 400 00:24:52,083 --> 00:24:55,083 from 31 January to 6 February, 1968, 401 00:24:56,729 --> 00:24:58,979 in the Republic of Vietnam. 402 00:24:59,958 --> 00:25:02,841 Company A fought off multiple vicious attacks 403 00:25:02,841 --> 00:25:07,014 as it rapidly moved along the highway toward Huế City 404 00:25:07,014 --> 00:25:08,668 to relieve friendly forces 405 00:25:08,668 --> 00:25:11,393 that we're surrounded by enemy forces. 406 00:25:11,393 --> 00:25:13,743 Despite being wounded in these engagements, 407 00:25:13,743 --> 00:25:16,591 Gunnery Sergeant Canley repeatedly rushed across 408 00:25:16,591 --> 00:25:20,859 fire swept terrain to carry his wounded Marines to safety. 409 00:25:20,859 --> 00:25:24,072 After his commanding officer was severely wounded, 410 00:25:24,072 --> 00:25:26,167 Gunnery Sergeant Canley took command 411 00:25:26,167 --> 00:25:29,000 and led the company into Huế City. 412 00:25:30,341 --> 00:25:32,964 At Huế City, caught in deadly crossfire 413 00:25:32,964 --> 00:25:35,085 from enemy machine gun positions, 414 00:25:35,085 --> 00:25:38,219 he set up a base of fire and maneuvered with a platoon 415 00:25:38,219 --> 00:25:40,443 in a flanking attack that eliminated 416 00:25:40,443 --> 00:25:42,443 several enemy positions. 417 00:25:43,038 --> 00:25:45,734 Retaining command of the company for three days, 418 00:25:45,734 --> 00:25:49,086 he led attacks against multiple enemy-fortified positions 419 00:25:49,086 --> 00:25:51,719 while routinely braving enemy fire 420 00:25:51,719 --> 00:25:54,636 to carry wounded Marines to safety. 421 00:25:55,971 --> 00:25:58,600 On 4 February, he led a group of Marines 422 00:25:58,600 --> 00:26:02,207 into an enemy-occupied building in Huế City. 423 00:26:02,207 --> 00:26:06,790 He moved into the open to draw fire, located the enemy, 424 00:26:06,997 --> 00:26:10,823 eliminated the threat, and expanded the company's hold 425 00:26:10,823 --> 00:26:13,240 on the building room by room. 426 00:26:13,295 --> 00:26:15,689 Gunnery Sergeant Canley then gained position 427 00:26:15,689 --> 00:26:18,446 above the enemy strong point and dropped in 428 00:26:18,446 --> 00:26:23,196 a large satchel charge that forced the enemy to withdraw. 429 00:26:24,732 --> 00:26:27,630 On 6 February, during a fierce firefight 430 00:26:27,630 --> 00:26:30,526 at a hospital compound, Gunnery Sergeant Canley 431 00:26:30,526 --> 00:26:33,771 twice scaled a wall in full view of the enemy 432 00:26:33,771 --> 00:26:36,688 to carry wounded Marines to safety. 433 00:26:38,386 --> 00:26:42,136 By his undaunted courage, selfless sacrifice, 434 00:26:42,247 --> 00:26:44,466 and unwavering devotion to duty, 435 00:26:44,466 --> 00:26:47,523 Gunnery Sergeant Canley reflected great credit upon himself 436 00:26:47,523 --> 00:26:50,293 and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps 437 00:26:50,293 --> 00:26:53,293 and the United States Naval Service. 438 00:26:56,099 --> 00:26:59,266 (audience applauding) 439 00:27:22,472 --> 00:27:26,722 (audience cheering and applauding) 440 00:27:37,187 --> 00:27:39,277 The Hall of Heroes contains the names 441 00:27:39,277 --> 00:27:43,845 of the 3,504 service men and women in our nation's history 442 00:27:43,845 --> 00:27:47,168 who have been awarded the Medal of Honor. 443 00:27:47,168 --> 00:27:51,642 Sergeant Major Canley now joins this illustrious warriors 444 00:27:51,642 --> 00:27:56,142 of the 3,505th Medal of Honor recipient to be inducted 445 00:27:56,414 --> 00:27:58,414 into the Hall of Heroes. 446 00:27:59,534 --> 00:28:02,698 Ladies and gentlemen, Sergeant Major John L. Canley, 447 00:28:02,698 --> 00:28:05,282 United States Marine Corps, Retired. 448 00:28:05,282 --> 00:28:09,532 (audience applauding and cheering) 449 00:28:38,597 --> 00:28:42,097 - On behalf of all the Marines and myself, 450 00:28:48,012 --> 00:28:51,929 we'd like to thank Congresswoman Julia Brownley 451 00:28:56,363 --> 00:28:58,363 for what she did for us. 452 00:28:58,677 --> 00:29:03,510 That's the reason why we're here today, is because of her. 453 00:29:06,175 --> 00:29:07,907 She is a congressman, 454 00:29:07,907 --> 00:29:11,324 a congressperson that cares about people. 455 00:29:13,846 --> 00:29:17,373 She is the type of congressman that we need 456 00:29:17,373 --> 00:29:21,373 because of what she stand for, and I'm so proud, 457 00:29:21,374 --> 00:29:23,233 along with all the veterans 458 00:29:23,233 --> 00:29:26,256 that she is on the Board of Veterans. 459 00:29:26,256 --> 00:29:27,089 Thank you. 460 00:29:28,384 --> 00:29:31,551 (audience applauding) 461 00:29:52,958 --> 00:29:55,175 - And now, ladies and gentlemen, please remain standing 462 00:29:55,175 --> 00:29:57,239 as Master Sergeant Bennear leads us 463 00:29:57,239 --> 00:30:00,239 in the singing of the Marine's Hymn. 464 00:30:01,334 --> 00:30:03,251 - Sing with me Marines. 465 00:30:05,350 --> 00:30:08,894 ♪ From the halls of Montezuma ♪ 466 00:30:08,894 --> 00:30:12,847 ♪ To the shores of Tripoli ♪ 467 00:30:12,847 --> 00:30:16,847 ♪ We fight our country's battles ♪ 468 00:30:16,847 --> 00:30:21,053 ♪ In the air, on land, and sea ♪ 469 00:30:21,053 --> 00:30:25,118 ♪ First to fight for right and freedom ♪ 470 00:30:25,118 --> 00:30:29,306 ♪ And to keep our honor clean ♪ 471 00:30:29,306 --> 00:30:33,387 ♪ We are proud to claim the title ♪ 472 00:30:33,387 --> 00:30:37,561 ♪ Of United States Marine ♪ 473 00:30:37,561 --> 00:30:41,640 ♪ Our flag's unfurled to every breeze ♪ 474 00:30:41,640 --> 00:30:45,986 ♪ From dawn to setting sun ♪ 475 00:30:45,986 --> 00:30:49,971 ♪ We have fought in every clime and place ♪ 476 00:30:49,971 --> 00:30:54,003 ♪ Where we could take a gun ♪ 477 00:30:54,003 --> 00:30:58,288 ♪ In the snow of far-off foreign lands ♪ 478 00:30:58,288 --> 00:31:02,288 ♪ And in sunny tropic scenes ♪ 479 00:31:02,288 --> 00:31:06,541 ♪ You will find us always on the job ♪ 480 00:31:06,541 --> 00:31:10,746 ♪ The United States Marines ♪ 481 00:31:10,746 --> 00:31:14,842 ♪ Here's health to you and to our Corps ♪ 482 00:31:14,842 --> 00:31:18,921 ♪ Which we are proud to serve ♪ 483 00:31:18,921 --> 00:31:22,780 ♪ In many a strife we've fought for life ♪ 484 00:31:22,780 --> 00:31:27,017 ♪ And never lost our nerve ♪ 485 00:31:27,017 --> 00:31:30,939 ♪ If the Army and the Navy ♪ 486 00:31:30,939 --> 00:31:35,131 ♪ Ever look on heaven's scenes ♪ 487 00:31:35,131 --> 00:31:39,239 ♪ They will find the streets are guarded ♪ 488 00:31:39,239 --> 00:31:42,642 ♪ By United States Marines ♪ 489 00:31:42,642 --> 00:31:43,475 - Oorah! 490 00:31:44,753 --> 00:31:49,003 (audience applauding and cheering) 491 00:31:58,188 --> 00:32:00,518 - Ladies and gentlemen, this concludes our ceremony. 492 00:32:00,518 --> 00:32:02,093 Please stay in your seating area 493 00:32:02,093 --> 00:32:04,598 until the official party has departed. 494 00:32:04,598 --> 00:32:06,535 Thank you for your attendance this afternoon 495 00:32:06,535 --> 00:32:08,118 and semper fidelis. 496 00:32:08,740 --> 00:32:12,990 (audience applauding and cheering)