October 31, 2024

Wroblewski Awarded URG Jim Marshall Veteran of the Year

Corporal Rob Wroblewski, a Vietnam Combat Veteran who served in the United States Marine Corps from 1963 to 1969, received University of Rio Grande’s Jim Marshall Veteran of the Year Award recently.

The award recognizes veterans who have not only served with distinction in the U.S. Armed Forces but have also made exemplary contributions to their community, state, and nation after their military service.

After completing boot camp and radio school, Corporal Wroblewski served as a field radio operator during the Vietnam War in 1965-66.

However, his remarkable service to veterans spans over five decades.

Corporal Wroblewski’s dedication has earned him numerous accolades, including being named “Marine of the Year” twice by the Huntington Detachment #340 of the Marine Corps League in 2002 and 2023. In 2002, he was also awarded the prestigious “Legion of Honor,” a national award presented by the Chapel of Four Chaplains in Harrisburg, PA.

In recognition of his lifelong commitment to veterans, Corporal Wroblewski has received several national honors, including the “Distinguished Citizen Gold Medal,” “The President’s Volunteer Service Award,” “Lifetime Achievement Distinguished Veteran Award,” the Vietnam Veterans of America Achievement Medal, and the Ford “Oval of Honor.”

The prestigious award is named in honor of Mr. Jim Marshall, a former member of the Rio Grande Men’s Basketball team, known for his outstanding character, leadership, and dedication.

After leaving Rio Grande to enlist in the U.S. military, Marshall served as 1st Sergeant, Kilo-Battery-4th Battalion-13th Marines during the Vietnam War. He was injured in combat and awarded the Purple Heart. Driven by his passion for service, Jim later joined the 684th Army National Guard in 1974. He is remembered for his lifelong legacy of excellence, discipline, and devotion to his country and fellow veterans.