Randy McConnell

U.S. Army Sergeant Randy McConnell is one of the Army's most decorated veterans of all time, having earned seven Purple Hearts, two Silver Stars, a Bronze Star for Valor and an Army Commendation Medal for Valor in Vietnam.

In 1968, McConnell signed up to serve in the Vietnam War after a football injury halted his collegiate dreams. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, serving as a Screaming Eagle and Pathfinder. McConnell only served in Vietnam for six months and three days, arriving just before the start of the Tet Offensive, but he felt the full force of the enemy - being shot, injured by shrapnel and targeted by the NVA.

McConnell was selected to be the National At-Large honoree during the 2021 Purple Heart Patriot Project Mission.

Regrettably, he passed away prior to the event. His wife, Rebecca, attended on his behalf and was presented the American flag that was flown over Trophy Point on the day the Purple Heart recipients visit the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.