Some Interesting Information about Marine Robert Mueller

 

Some Interesting Information about Marine Robert Mueller

By Debbie Gregory

Most of us are familiar with Robert Mueller due to his appointment as special counsel overseeing the ongoing investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. But there is a lot more to the man than this one responsibility.

A graduate of Princeton University, Mueller served as a Marine Corps officer during the Vietnam War. He said he was inspired to serve in Vietnam because of the combat death of Princeton classmate and friend David Hackett. Mueller attended training at Parris Island, Officer Candidate School, Army Ranger School, and Army jump school.

Mueller was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” for heroism and the Purple Heart. He was also awarded two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals with Combat “V”, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three service stars, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Parachutist Badge.

Mueller went to Vietnam in 1968, and served as a rifle platoon leader with Second Platoon, H Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. He earned the Bronze Star for rescuing a fellow Marine who was wounded by enemy fire during an ambush. Half of Mueller’s platoon became casualties.

Mueller said that nothing he ever confronted in his career was as challenging as leading men in combat and watching them be cut down.

In April 1969, Mueller himself was wounded. After he recovered, he returned to lead his platoon until June 1969.

“I consider myself exceptionally lucky to have made it out of Vietnam” said Mueller. “There were many many who did not. And perhaps because I did survive Vietnam, I have always felt compelled to contribute.

Mueller left active-duty service in 1970.

In 2004, he was inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame.