Michael J. Crescenz
Corporal, U.S. Army
Medal of Honor (posthumously)

Representing all students of Catholic schools who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

If the dictionary defines Patriot as a “person who loves, supports, and defends his country,” the accompanying photo should be of Corporal Michael J. Crescenz. His military accomplishments are a patriot’s dream and have been recognized with some of the most prestigious honors available, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and our nation’s highest military decoration, the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Crescenz’s journey to Vietnam began in Philadelphia on January 14, 1949. One of six sons to Charles and Mary, Crescenz attended Cardinal Dougherty High School. As a Cardinal Dougherty student, Crescenz was a true leader—playing the roles of dedicated academic, varsity baseball star, and an earnest young man with respect for Catholic values.

Crescenz shipped out to Vietnam in September 1968, ironically the same month his older brother Charles was discharged from active duty. Less than two months later, Crescenz would display the ultimate in leadership and heroism.

On November 20, 1968, Crescenz was serving as a rifleman in the Hiep Duc Valley area of the Republic of Vietnam. That morning, his unit engaged a large force of the North Vietnamese Army whose initial burst of fire pinned down the lead squad and killed the two point men. His company in danger, Crescenz immediately abandoned the safety of his own location and ran through heavy gunfire to charge three bunkers. Crescenz was only five meters from a fourth bunker when he was shot and killed. However, as a result of Crescenz’ extraordinary heroism, his company went on to defeat the enemy unit.

Following this incident, Crescenz received a posthumous promotion to the rank of Corporal. Then on April 7, 1970, he became the only Philadelphian to receive a Congressional Medal of Honor for service in Vietnam when President Richard Nixon presented the award to Charles and Mary Crescenz.

A hero and role model, Crescenz represents all Catholic graduates who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. He is, truly, another promised fulfilled. 

Schools Attended:

St. Athanasius Elementary School – 1962

Cardinal Dougherty High School – 1966