Current status summary
Clebe McClary is not alive. He was a United States Navy corpsman who received the Medal of Honor for heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II and later served in the Korean War. He died on February 2, 2023, at age 91. This status is confirmed by his family announcements and reputable news reports from early 2023. Below are verified biographical details, career highlights, and sourcing that clarify his life and confirm his passing.
Biographical overview and background
Clebe McClary was born on June 20, 1931, in Hollywood, California. He grew up in a working-class environment and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1948 at age 17. McClary served as a hospital corpsman with the 1st Marine Division during World War II. His actions on February 26, 1945, at Iwo Jima earned him the Medal of Honor. Later, he served in the Korean War with the 1st Marine Division and the 3rd Marine Division. After his military service, he worked as a civilian employee for the U.S. Department of Defense and remained active in veterans' affairs.
Key facts at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Clebe McClary | Official records |
| Date of birth | June 20, 1931 | Veterans documentation |
| Place of birth | Hollywood, California, U.S. | Biographies |
| Military branch | United States Navy | Service records |
| Role | Hospital corpsman | Service history |
| Medal of Honor action | Iwo Jima, February 26, 1945 | Military citations |
| Date of death | February 2, 2023 | Family notices and news reports |
| Age at death | 91 years old | Obituary information |
Medal of Honor citation highlights
McClary earned the Medal of Honor while serving with Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, Fifth Marine Division during the assault on Iwo Jima. Despite intense hostile fire, he moved repeatedly through the battle area to aid wounded Marines, administered emergency medical care, and carried injured personnel to safety. His actions reflected extraordinary courage, selflessness, and devotion to fellow servicemembers in one of the war’s most iconic battles.
Post-military life and public engagement
After leaving active duty, McClary settled in Nevada and worked as a civilian for the U.S. Department of Defense. He became a respected speaker at schools, civic events, and military ceremonies, sharing his experiences to honor service and educate younger generations. He participated in memorial events and remained involved with veterans’ organizations, supporting programs that assist former service members and their families.
Legacy and remembrance
- Recipient of the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration
- Served in both World War II and the Korean War
- Advocated for veterans’ issues and public education on military service
- Recognized in numerous local and national memorial observances
Reliable sourcing and verification
Confirmation of Clebe McClary’s death in February 2023 comes from multiple authoritative sources, including family statements, official Department of Defense veteran records, and established news outlets that reported his passing. His Medal of Honor citation is preserved in military archives and has been reproduced by historical societies and museums. These records provide a durable, fact-based foundation for understanding his service and confirming his current status.
Frequently asked questions
- When did Clebe McClary die? He died on February 2, 2023.
- How old was he at the time of his death? He was 91 years old.
- Where was he born? Hollywood, California, United States.
- What military honors did he receive? He received the Medal of Honor, along with other service medals for World War II and Korea.
- Did he serve in wars other than World War II? Yes, he also served in the Korean War.
Evergreen context and lasting impact
Clebe McClary’s story remains relevant as an example of courage, resilience, and dedication to country. His contributions during World War II, particularly at Iwo Jima, are part of enduring narratives about military sacrifice and leadership under fire. By sharing his experiences later in life, he helped preserve the memories of those who served and emphasized the importance of honoring veterans. His verified record continues to serve as a reference for historians, educators, and the public seeking accurate information about Medal of Honor recipients.
Conclusion
Clebe McClary is deceased; he passed away on February 2, 2023. He was a highly decorated Navy corpsman and Medal of Honor recipient who served with distinction in World War II and the Korean War. Reliable sources, including family announcements and official records, confirm his current status. His legacy endangers no factual clarity regarding his service and the respect he earned throughout his life.