Vietnam War Medal of Honor Recipient. He received the award posthumously (presented to this family) from Vice President Spiro T. Agnew at the White House on April 20, 1970. for his actions as a lance corporal with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, on August 12, 1968, at Bo Ban, Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam. He enlisted with the US Marine Corps in June 1967 and following his recruit and combat infantry training, he was sent to South Vietnam in November 1967, serving as a rifleman, and was promoted to the rank of lance corporal in May 1968. On August 12, 1968, after establishing an ambush position, live enemy grenades were launched nearby and he smothered the closest grenade with his body to shield his fellow soldiers from possible harm and was killed as a result. He was also awarded the Purple Heart and the Vietnam Service Medal (with four bronze stars). His Medal of Honor citation reads: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a machine gunner with Company L, 3d Battalion, in action against enemy forces. After establishing a night ambush position in a house in Bo Ban, a hamlet of Quang Nam Province, security was set up and the remainder of the patrol members retired until their respective watch. During the early morning hours the marines were abruptly awakened by the platoon leader's warning that "grenades" had landed in the house. Fully realizing the inevitable result of his actions, L/Cpl. Worley, in a valiant act of heroism, instantly threw himself upon the grenade nearest him and his comrades, absorbing with his body, the full and tremendous force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved his comrades from serious injury and possible loss of life although five of his fellow marines incurred minor wounds as the other grenades exploded. L/Cpl. Worley's gallant actions upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."