Robert P. Shellem was born on March 17, 1949. His home of record is Atlantic City, NJ. He dropped out of Atlantic City High School during his senior year in 1967 to join the Marines. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. Shellem.
He served in the US Marine Corps and attained the rank of Lance Corporal (LCPL). He served in B Company, 1st Bn, 7th Marines, 1st MARDIV, III MAF.
Shellem was killed in action on April 28, 1968 when he was struck by grenade fragments while on patrol. His father, a plumber, said the young Marine wrote in his last letter that the war was “horrible”. Surviving with his parents were two brothers, John A. Jr., and Joseph, both former Marines; and two sisters, Theresa and Carol. He is buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in Mays Landing, NJ.
He received the Silver Star for Conspicuous Gallantry in Action During the Vietnam War. His citation states:
“The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Robert P. Shellem (2347256), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 28, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Shellem upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Source: NJVVMF, Robert Sage and various websites.
12/17/2024
