---

Robert J. Modrzejewski

Recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor

by Gene Harubin Zygmont

The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest military award which can be given to a person serving the Armed Forces of the Unites States. Recipients must have demonstrated bravery and self sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty, usually at risk to their own lives. Since 1862, only 897 persons have received this prestigious award. Colonel (Ret.) Robert J. Modrzejewski belongs to this select group.

Robert J. Modrzejewski was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on July 3, 1934 to Rose (Tarkowski) and Joseph Modrzejewski. Both parents had emigrated to the United States prior to World War l. Young Robert attended the local Pulaski High School, then studied at the University of Wisconsin where he received a BS degree in Education in 1957. In that same year, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he was to serve with distinction for 30 years. While still on active duty, Colonel Modrzejewski received a Master of Arts Degree in Education from Pepperdine University (1976). President Lyndon Johnson awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor to Colonel Modrzejewski in March, 1968, for conspicuous bravery during Operation Hastings in Vietnam (July, 1966). His other military awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (2nd award), Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon.

Since 1986, he has taught Naval Junior ROTC classes for the San Diego Unified School District. He lives in San Diego with his wife, Diane Evelyn and their son, Michael Robert.

From: Polish Americans in California, vol. II. National Center for Urban Ethnic Affairs & Polish American Historical Association. California 1995.

---

From: Polonia Gazette Sept. 1968

---