Monday, July 21, 2014
What is it?
President Barack Obama will award the Medal of Honor, nation’s highest award for valor, to former Staff Sgt. Ryan M. Pitts during a ceremony at the White House, today at 3:00 p.m. EDT. Ryan is the tenth Soldier to receive the Medal of Honor for operations in Afghanistan.
What has the Army done?
The Office of the Chief of Public Affairs created a website to pay tribute to Staff Sgt. Pitts’ actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Vehicle Patrol Base Kahler in the vicinity of Wanat Village, Afghanistan, on July 13, 2008. Visitors to Staff Sgt. Pitts’ website can access a biography, the official narrative, photos, and interviews.
The White House ceremony will be live streamed from the website and live tweeted from #USArmy Twitter platform.
What efforts does the Army plan to continue in the future?
In addition to the White House Ceremony, Army senior leaders will recognize Pitts, his family, and friends during a Hall of Heroes Induction Ceremony at the Pentagon, scheduled on July 22, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. EDT.
Why is this important to the Army?
Staff Sgt. Pitts embodies the attributes of a Professional Soldier. During the battle of Vehicle Patrol Base Kahler, vicinity of Wanat Village, Pitts lived out the Soldier’s Creed as he fought for his teammates and the nation. Today, Ryan employs his competence, character, and commitment within a new profession, living the Army Values alongside citizens he once served.
Resources:
Subscribe to STAND-TO! to learn about the U.S. Army initiatives.