Joseph Anthony Glowin
U.S. Marine Corps - Dominican Campaign
(Photo Courtesy: Marine Corps University)
Joseph Anthony Glowin was born on March 14, 1892, in Detroit, Michigan. In December of 1913, Glowin enlisted in the United States Marine Corps from Lansing, Michigan, and would later take part in the expedition to Vera Cruz, Mexico, from April to November 1914.
In the following year, he participated in engagements in the Republic of Haiti between September and November 1915. A year later, Glowin deployed to the Dominican Republic with the 13th Company, Artillery Battalion, 1st Brigade.
On 3 July 1916, Cpl. Glowin, a machine gunner, was deep into the jungle of Santo Domingo, near Guayacanas with a small detachment of Marines. Glowin and his fellow Marines would encounter a strong row of bandit trenches manned by a superior force. Their squad was out in the open, and their only course of action laid in a direct frontal attack. Although hit by enemy fire, Cpl. Glowin remained at his post fighting off the enemy until wounded again and forced by his comrades to get medical aid. Glowin was awarded the Nation's highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his heroism at Guayacanas.
Glowin remained in the Dominican Republic until June 1917, when he was promoted to the rank of Gunnery Sergeant (Temporary). He was honorably discharged on December 8, 1917. Glowin reenlisted ten days later for the duration of World War I, but because his previous ranks had all been temporary warrants, he was later honorably discharged a second time at his permanent rank of Private on September 6, 1919. He later served with the Detroit Police Department from 1923 until 1941.
Private Glowin died on August 23, 1952, he was buried in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Detroit, Michigan.
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
