In a split second, with imminent danger looming, what influences an individual to throw himself forward and, at the cost of his own life, save the lives of those nearby?  What is that special quality that inspires heroism?  Whatever that quality, Marine LCpl Kenneth Lee Worley had it.
 He didn't run away from his comrades that August 12, 1968, in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.  He was only 20, and he sacrificed himself for his comrades.  LCpl Worley, USMC, was posthumously presented the Medal of Honor on April 20, 1970;  that MOH citation reads:

 "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity...while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company L, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, First Division in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam.  After establishing a night ambush position in a house in the Bo Ban, 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 (and) in a valiant act of heroism, (Worley) 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, (Worley) saved his comrades from serious injury and possible loss of life....  Worley gallantly gave his life for his country."

The folks behind the effort to bring this proposed sculpture into a life-size bronze memorial at Worley's hometown of Farmington, NM, are Dottie & MSgt USAF Retired Bruce Salisbury, Director of Mount KIA/MIA Memorial, a 501(c)3 corporation.  Donations can be made through the Mountain KIA/MIA Memorial at The Citizens Bank Aztec Branch, 215 S. Main, Aztec, NM 87410, (505) 599-0100.