ST. AUGUSTINE, FL — The life, service, and extraordinary heroism of the late Sergeant Johnel N. White, a decorated United States Marine Corps veteran and Silver Star recipient, will be honored during a special posthumous recognition ceremony and banquet on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Alton Green Memorial American Legion Post 194 in St. Augustine, Florida.
The ceremony will bring together family members, military leaders, veterans, and community members to pay tribute to a Marine whose remarkable courage under enemy fire during the Vietnam War earned him one of the nation’s highest military decorations for valor.
On June 16, 1968, while serving as a Private First Class and Assistant Machine Gunner with Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Marines, 1st Marine Division, White demonstrated extraordinary bravery during Operation Allen Brook in Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam. During an early morning attack by a large North Vietnamese Army force, White and his fellow Marines came under intense enemy fire involving grenades, mortars, small arms, and automatic weapons. Despite the danger, White exposed himself to hostile fire to identify the position of enemy soldiers attacking his fellow Marines. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he crossed hazardous terrain and directly confronted the attackers, killing two enemy soldiers and forcing the remaining troops to retreat. Although seriously wounded during the assault, White refused to abandon his position. He continued delivering accurate fire against the retreating enemy until he received medical assistance and was subsequently evacuated.
His courageous actions helped protect his fellow Marines and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his company’s mission. For his conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary courage in combat, White was awarded the Silver Star, the United States Armed Forces’ third-highest military decoration for valor.
Honoring a Legacy of Courage and Sacrifice
The November 14 ceremony will commemorate Sergeant White’s distinguished military service and the lasting legacy of his bravery. The event will feature the participation of Lieutenant General Ronald L. Bailey, USMC (Ret.), Chief Master Sergeant Derry R. Greene, USAF (Ret.), and Sergeant Major Michael Cline, USMC (Ret.), bringing distinguished Marine Corps leadership together with family members, veterans, and community representatives to honor his memory.
Beyond recognizing an extraordinary act of courage, the gathering will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of American service members and the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.
Sergeant White’s actions on June 16, 1968, remain a powerful example of selflessness, determination, and devotion to fellow Marines in the face of overwhelming danger. The recognition ceremony will take place at the cccin St. Augustine, an organization dedicated to honoring military service and supporting veterans and their families.
Event Details
Event: Posthumous Silver Star Recognition Ceremony & Banquet Honoring Sergeant Johnel N. White
Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
Time: 2:00 p.m. (1400 hours)
Location:
1029 Pearl Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Distinguished Participants:
Lieutenant General Ronald L. Bailey, USMC (Ret.)
Chief Master Sergeant Derry R. Greene, USAF (Ret.)
Sergeant Major Michael Cline, USMC (Ret.)
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