General Lewis William Walt was a distinguished U.S. Marine Corps officer whose career spanned over 35 years and three major wars. Serving as the Assistant Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps from 1968 to 1971, General Walt was a decorated war hero, earning two Navy Crosses, a Silver Star, and two Purple Hearts. His leadership, courage, and commitment to duty left an enduring legacy in the U.S. military. He rests in Section 17, Site 51 B at Arlington National Cemetery, where he has been remembered since May 11, 2000, as one of the most accomplished U.S. Marines in history.
Early Life and Military Beginnings
Born on February 16, 1913, in Wabaunsee County, Kansas, Lewis William Walt grew up in Independence, Missouri. He attended Colorado State University, where he excelled in athletics and leadership. Upon graduating in 1936, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps, marking the beginning of an extraordinary military career that would span World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
World War II: Earning His First Navy Cross
During World War II, then-Captain Walt quickly distinguished himself in combat. He participated in the Guadalcanal Campaign in 1942, one of the most pivotal battles of the Pacific theater. However, it was in the Battle of Peleliu in 1944 that he demonstrated extraordinary bravery.
Serving as the battalion commander of the 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, Walt led his unit through the brutal and heavily fortified Japanese defenses on the island. Despite being wounded, he continued to lead from the front, inspiring his U.S. Marines to push forward in the face of relentless enemy fire. His valor in combat earned him his first Navy Cross, the second-highest award for combat heroism in the U.S. military.
Korean War: Leadership in the Cold and Harsh Terrain
Following World War II, Walt remained in the U.S. Marine Corps and rose through the ranks. When the Korean War broke out in 1950, he was deployed as part of the 1st Marine Division. The war presented new challenges, including freezing temperatures, rugged mountains, and an enemy that used guerrilla tactics to great effect.
Also, Walt played a key role in the defense of the Pusan Perimeter, the successful Inchon Landing, and the legendary Chosin Reservoir Campaign. His leadership in these battles earned him widespread recognition. His ability to keep morale high and lead his U.S. Marines under extremely difficult conditions solidified his reputation as a capable and fearless leader.
Vietnam War: Earning a Second Navy Cross
As the Vietnam War escalated in the 1960s, Walt found himself in one of the most challenging assignments of his career. He was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 and was given command of the III Marine Amphibious Force (III MAF), which was responsible for leading U.S. Marine Corps combat operations against North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces.
Furthermore, General Walt was an advocate of the Combined Action Program (CAP), which integrated U.S. Marines with local South Vietnamese forces to improve security and stability in rural areas. His approach was instrumental in countering enemy insurgencies and winning the trust of local populations.
During his time in Vietnam, Walt earned his second Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism in battle. He repeatedly placed himself in harm’s way to lead his U.S. Marines and oversee operations on the front lines. His hands-on leadership style made him one of the most respected U.S. Marine Corps commanders in the war.
Becoming Assistant Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps
In 1968, General Walt was appointed Assistant Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, making him the second-highest-ranking officer in the branch. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in modernizing the U.S. Marine Corps and improving training programs to better prepare U.S. Marines for the evolving nature of warfare.
Moreover, his leadership during this period helped shape the future of the U.S. Marine Corps, ensuring that U.S. Marines remained highly skilled, adaptable, and combat-ready. After serving in this capacity until 1971, Walt retired from the U.S. military, concluding a legendary career that spanned more than three decades.
General Lewis William Walt: Awards and Decorations
Throughout his service, General Walt received numerous awards and honors, including:
- Two Navy Crosses – For extraordinary heroism in combat
- Silver Star – For gallantry in action
- Two Purple Hearts – For wounds sustained in battle
- Legion of Merit – For exceptional leadership and service
- Bronze Star with Combat “V” – For valor in combat
His decorations reflect his unwavering courage, dedication, and commitment to his fellow U.S. Marines.
Post-Military Life and Legacy
After retiring, General Walt remained active in U.S. military and defense affairs. He wrote about military strategy, advised policymakers, and continued to advocate for strong national defense policies. The U.S. Marine Corps community deeply respected him, and military historians and leaders actively sought his insights.
On May 11, 2000, U.S. military officials, veterans, and family members honored General Lewis William Walt’s incredible service as they laid him to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Section 17, Site 51 B.
Conclusion
General Lewis William Walt exemplified the highest ideals of the U.S. Marine Corps: honor, courage, and commitment. From the Pacific battles of World War II to the frozen mountains of Korea and the jungles of Vietnam, he demonstrated extraordinary leadership, bravery, and dedication to his country. His legacy continues to inspire U.S. Marines and U.S. military leaders to this day.
As one of the most decorated U.S. Marines in history, General Walt’s impact on the U.S. Marine Corps remains immeasurable. We will always remember his service and sacrifice, securing his place among the greatest U.S. military leaders in American history.
