Robert M. Viale

Who was Robert M. Viale?

Robert M. Viale was a United States Army officer and a recipient of the United States military's highest decoration—the Medal of Honor—for his actions in World War II.

Viale joined the Army from Ukiah, California in March 1941, and by February 5, 1945 was serving as a second lieutenant in Company K, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division. On that day, during combat in Manila, capital of the Philippines, Viale smothered the blast of an accidentally dropped hand grenade with his body, sacrificing himself to protect the soldiers and civilians around him. For his actions, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor eight months later, on October 25, 1945.

Viale, aged 28 at his death, was buried in Ocean View Cemetery, Eureka, California.