FIRST LIEUTENANT MICHAEL J. BLASSIE MEDAL OF HONOR MEMORIAL PLAQUE

Michael Joseph Blassie (April 4, 1948 – May 11, 1972) was a United States Air Force officer who was killed in action during the Vietnam War in May 1972. Prior to the identification of his remains, Blassie was the unknown service member from the Vietnam War buried at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. After his remains were identified by DNA testing in 1998, his remains were moved to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in South St. Louis County, Missouri.

As the Medal of Honor was ceremoniously presented to the unidentified remains, it did not transfer to Blassie – who did receive four awards, including the Silver Star on his own merit for documented valor, heroism and achievements during his actions in combat in Vietnam.