John Grand

Originally from New York, John Grand enlisted into the U.S. Army in December 1955 and served for the next seven years before being commissioned in June 1962 and continuing to serve another 14 years. Grand did two tours in Vietnam with A and C companies, 2nd Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division operating in the Delta and Plain of Reeds areas of operations.

During his second tour in Vietnam, Grand was assigned as the Charlie Company Commander. His daily duties included search and secure operations throughout the areas of operations, including a significant route for the North Vietnamese to carry out attacks on Saigon. On two separate occasions, Grand tripped booby trap explosives. The first one resulted in wounds to his legs below the knees. The second booby trap resulted in wounds between his knees and my waist. He later tripped a third booby trap that resulted in blown ear drums.

Along with his Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, CPT Grand was awarded numerous medals and commendations during his service, including the Combat Infantry Badge, a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars for Valor, a Bronze Star for Meritorious Service, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with palm.

U.S. Army Captain (CPT) John Grand represented his fellow Purple Heart heroes as Arizona’s honoree during the 2023 Purple Heart Patriot Project Mission.