Glen Edward Blood

Specialist 4 Glen Edward Blood, U.S. Army, was born 8 January 1947 in Canton, Oklahoma. After Basic Training at Fort Bliss, Texas, in 1967, he completed his combat training at Fort Hood before being deployed to the Republic of Vietnam. There, he served as a combat infantryman and squad leader in Company C, 1st/46th, 198th Infantry Brigade, 23rd Infantry Division (Americal).

Soon after arriving in Vietnam on 14 November 1967, Specialist Blood’s Squad discovered a series of enemy tunnels while on patrol. Ordered to destroy one with grenades, he set off an explosion that triggered a hidden cache of weapons and ammunition, wounding him with shrapnel in the back. After recovering from his injuries, he rejoined his unit.

On 12 June 1968, C Company came under a savage enemy attack, enduring mortars, flame throwers, tear gas, and automatic weapons. The attack lasted all night until enemy withdrew. Four months later, after Blood’s return from Vietnam, he was cited for gallantry in action with the military’s third highest award for valor, the Silver Star. The citation reads in part: “..…Immediately, Blood moved through the besieged area instructing and informing comrades of a potential ground attack. Despite severe wounds…..he personally directed the retaliatory fire during the ensuing battle…..With complete disregard for his own safety, Blood carried several of his wounded to the medical aid bunker…..Blood’s heroic actions and unselfish concern for his fellow soldiers are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself…..and the United States Army.” His other awards include the Army Commendation Medal and two Purple Heart Medals.

After returning home to Canton, Oklahoma, Specialist Blood dedicated his life to serving as a pastor for over fifty years, offering spiritual leadership, care, and support to his community in Northwest Oklahoma.