Beaufort’s Al Kohn, 72, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1968 in Jacksonville, Fla. After Boot Camp at Parris Island and infantry training, he was assigned to a combat unit in Quang Tri Province, Vietnam. Just two months into the tour, his 36-man patrol was ambushed by the North Vietnamese Army. He and only one other survived. The two spent 58 days in the jungle evading the enemy until rescued. Within a week they were back in the jungle on patrol. He was later wounded and received a Purple Heart. After Vietnam he trained and served as Military Police at Lejeune (twice), Hawaii, Pendleton, Iwakuni (twice), and MCAS Beaufort, from which he retired in 1991 as a Gunnery Sergeant. Thereafter he worked for 20 years as a civil servant at Parris Island. He is proud that his four children have significant careers across the country.
– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 9. For nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.
