Griffith Statement on Radford’s Colonel John Walter Ripley Awarded Medal of Honor Posthumously

U.S. President Donald J. Trump posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor to Colonel John Walter Ripley of Radford, Virginia. Colonel Ripley, who served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, was honored for his courage and bravery as part of a White House presentation ceremony. Numerous members of Colonel Ripley's family were present for the ceremony, including his son, Thomas H. Ripley.

"The Medal of Honor is our nation's highest award. Only 300 U.S. Marines have worn the Medal, and we are incredibly honored that our father, Colonel John W. Ripley, will be included in those ranks. He was a proud Virginian, and loved the Marine Corps. Today is a chance to remember him, his service to our country and to our Corps. Semper Fidelis." - Colonel Ripley's son, Thomas Ripley

Following the ceremony, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), who carried the legislation to authorize the Medal of Honor award for Colonel Ripley, issued the following statement:

"Communities in Virginia's Ninth District, including his hometown of Radford, Virginia, are proud that one of their very own is recognized today at the White House with the country's highest military honor. Colonel Ripley's acts of valor during the Vietnam War helped advance U.S. military interests and saved lives. His actions deserve heavy commendation and praise."

BACKGROUND

Congressman Griffith is sponsor of H.R. 7211, a bill to authorize President Trump to award the Medal of Honor to Colonel Ripley.

Congressman Griffith's e-newsletter on Colonel Ripley's story can be found here.

An executive summary of Colonel Ripley's actions can be found here.

Video coverage from today's ceremony can be found here.

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