The Friends of the Library invite you to a profound encounter with living history. As part of our Sunset Signature Series, we are honored to host Col. Walter Joseph (Joe) Marm Jr. for an evening of reflection on courage, leadership and the thin line between duty and sacrifice.
This special event takes place during Memorial Day weekend, providing a timely and poignant opportunity to honor those who served by hearing directly from one of the nation’s most decorated veterans.
The crucible: the Battle of Ia Drang
In November 1965, the world watched as the first major clash between U.S. and North Vietnamese forces unfolded in the remote Valley of Death. Then-2nd Lieutenant Marm led a platoon of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry into a fight that would define the Vietnam War — a battle later immortalized in the book and film We Were Soldiers Once… and Young.
When his platoon was pinned down by a concealed enemy machine-gun nest, the situation turned dire. To save his men, Marm performed a series of legendary feats. He deliberately exposed himself to intense fire to draw out the enemy and pinpoint their location. After two daring attempts to neutralize the bunker with a rocket launcher and grenades, Marm took the ultimate risk. Despite being severely wounded, he charged 30 yards across open ground under a hail of bullets to eliminate the threat single-handedly.
His selfless actions broke the enemy’s momentum, saved his platoon from certain destruction, and earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Lyndon B. Johnson on Dec. 19, 1966.
About Col. Walter “Joe” Marm Jr.
Beyond the battlefield, Col. Marm’s life is a testament to the American spirit of service. A Pennsylvania native and Eagle Scout, he graduated from Duquesne University in 1964 before commissioning into the Army. His distinguished career spanned over three decades, including high-level leadership roles and continued mentorship of the next generation of soldiers. He retired in 1995, yet he continues to inspire through his humility and dedication to his fellow veterans.
Event Details
Join us in the intimate, historic setting of the Sunset Theatre for a night of storytelling that transcends history books.
- Admission: Free and open to the public (No tickets required)
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 23, 7:30 pm
- Location: Sunset Theatre, 234 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro, N.C. 27203
The Sunset Signature Series is proudly sponsored by the Heart of North Carolina Visitors Bureau, the City of Asheboro, and the Friends of the Randolph County Public Library. For visitor information and event details, please visit HeartofNorthCarolina.com.
Looking Ahead: Mark your calendars for the grand finale of the 2025-2026 series featuring Our State Magazine Editor Elizabeth Hudson on Friday, September 25.
