Robert A Kolas

On this Memorial Day, we honor Lance Corporal Robert Allen Kolas, a U.S. Marine who gave everything in service to his country during the Vietnam War.

Robert served as a rifleman with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines. On August 15, 1967, while on patrol near Hoi An in South Vietnam, his unit was caught in a deadly encounter—enemy fire and hidden booby traps claimed the lives of ten Marines that day, including Robert. He was just 20 years old.

In his hometown of Middletown, New Jersey, a street now bears his name—Kolas Court—so that his sacrifice is never forgotten by those who walk there.

We remember his courage. We honor his life. And we say his name. Rest in peace, Lance Corporal Robert Allen Kolas.