From the Revolutionary War through the present, countless Soldiers have left their mark on the United States Army. Whether it was through intrepid and valorous action in battle, or by innovating processes that fundamentally shaped the way the Army operates, we honor these Heroes of the Army today and always.
When the Revolutionary War began in April 1775, the colonists did not have a standing army. Instead, each colony relied upon militias made up of part-time civilian-soldiers. The Continental Congress officially established the Continental Army on June 14, 1775. After the war, the Continental Army was disbanded due to Americans' distrust of a standing army, but two companies were retained to safeguard military arms and stores.
The Army faced another test against the British during the War of 1812. Later, during the Mexican War in 1846-1847, Soldiers fought to capture Mexico City and to establish the present-day border at the Rio Grande. The Army also played a key role in westward expansion, which inevitably led to conflicts with Native American tribes.
The Civil War saw a significant expansion of the Army, as Soldiers were needed to preserve the Union. After the war, Soldiers were used to protect American settlers west of the Mississippi River from bandits and raiders. The Army also played key roles during the War with Spain and the Philippine Insurrection.
The United States entered World War I a few years after it started, but the Army played a crucial role in the Allied victory. After the war, the Army focused on modernization and reorganization, but remained relatively small compared to other major powers.
World War II began in Asia and Europe in the 1930s, when the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy and Japan) attacked neighboring countries. The U.S. did not get involved until 1941, when the Japanese conducted a surprise attack at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7. After the U.S. declared war on Japan, Germany and Italy declared war on the U.S., opening theaters in Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. More than 400,000 American service members were killed, and nearly 700,000 were wounded.
After World War II ended, what became known as the Cold War began, as the Soviet Union competed with the free world for global dominance. Most of Eastern Europe was under the influence of the Soviet Union, while western Europe aligned with the U.S. and formed the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The U.S. stationed hundreds of thousands of service members in Europe, Japan and other allied nations. The Cold War ended in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The Global War on Terrorism was an international, large-scale, military and political campaign led by the United States in response to the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. During Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2014), the aim was to dismantle al-Qaeda, remove the Taliban from power and combat the ongoing insurgency in Afghanistan. Operation Freedom's Sentinel succeeded Enduring Freedom by training, advising and assisting Afghan security forces, ending with the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. During Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011), Iraq was invaded and occupied in order to remove Saddam Hussein from power and to address concerns about weapons of mass destruction. And during Operation Inherent Resolve, U.S. and coalition forces united to support Iraqi Security Force operations against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. In addition to Afghanistan and Iraq, GWOT counterterrorism efforts were conducted in the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia and other regions.
Unit
Fought valiantly disguised as a man in the Revolutionary War
SEE FULL PROFILE
General of the Army
Leader of the American Revolution, first president of the United States
SEE FULL PROFILE
From Slave to Spy
SEE FULL PROFILE
Major General
Major General
Brigadier General
Major General
Major General
Unit
First Lieutenant
Unit
Lieutenant General
Medal of Honor recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Unit
Second Lieutenant
Corporal
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Major General
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Lieutenant General
Civil War commander, oversaw the incarceration of Jefferson Davis
SEE FULL PROFILE
Lieutenant Colonel
Medal of Honor Recipient, 26th U.S. President
SEE FULL PROFILE
Second Lieutenant
First double recipient of the Medal of Honor
SEE FULL PROFILE
Lieutenant General
Leader of the Union Army in the Civil War
SEE FULL PROFILE
Sergeant
Medal of Honor recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Congressional Gold Medal
SEE FULL PROFILE
General of the Armies of the United States
First General of the Armies of the United States
SEE FULL PROFILE
Private
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Unit
Most decorated unit for its size and length of service in U.S. military history
SEE FULL PROFILE
Unit
Congressional Gold Medal
SEE FULL PROFILE
Unit
Sergeant First Class
"One Man Army"
SEE FULL PROFILE
Corporal
One of the comanche talkers who landed in France on D-Day
SEE FULL PROFILE
Major
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
General of the Army
General
Allied Commander in World War II, 34th U.S. President
SEE FULL PROFILE
Sergeant First Class
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
General of the Army
Five-star General of the Army
SEE FULL PROFILE
General
Commander of the Third and Seventh Armies during World War II
SEE FULL PROFILE
Unit
Congressional Gold Medal
SEE FULL PROFILE
Retired Colonel
First director of the Women's Army Corps and the first Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare
SEE FULL PROFILE
Major
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Private
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Brigadier General
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Unit
Congressional Gold Medal
SEE FULL PROFILE
Brigadier General
First nurse in American military history to attain a general officer rank
SEE FULL PROFILE
Unit
Congressional Gold Medal
SEE FULL PROFILE
Sergeant
Medal of Honor recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Private First Class
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Staff Sergeant
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Specialist 5
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Sergeant First Class
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Staff Sergeant
Medal of Honor recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Major
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Sergeant
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Brigadier General
16th Chief of the Army Nurses Corps
SEE FULL PROFILE
Captain
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Colonel
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Corporal
Medal of Honor
SEE FULL PROFILE
Sergeant
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Colonel
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
General
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Colonel
Medal of Honor Recipient
SEE FULL PROFILE
Second Lieutenant
First USMA 'Class of 9/11' to Die In Combat in Iraq
SEE FULL PROFILE
General
Commander of U.S. Southern Command
SEE FULL PROFILE
Lieutenant Colonel
Senator
SEE FULL PROFILEStart typing the name of the person above and search results will appear. If you are unable to find the person you are looking for, they may be unlisted on this site. Try an army.mil global search.
The history of the Army is always being written. This website will be continually updated with new profiles of Heroes. If you wish to suggest a Soldier for inclusion, please fill out the form on the Feedback page using the "Other" option.
In July 1778, the 1st Rhode Island Regiment was assembled into service. On Aug. 29, 1778, they fought in the battle of Rhode Island on Aquidneck Island, where they successfully held their line for four hours against British-Hessian assaults, enabling the entire American Army to escape a trap. At Yorktown, on the night of Oct. 14, 1781, they took part in the assault and capture of Redoubt 10. A monument to the regiment’s courage was erected in Portsmouth, Rhode Island.
Fought valiantly disguised as a man in the Revolutionary War
In the 1780s, when women were not allowed to serve in the military, Deborah Sampson disguised herself as a man and enlisted under the name Robert Shurtleff. She fought valiantly in battles against the British and served in the elite Light Infantry unit, known for their speed and toughness. Sampson's dedication was further exemplified when she sustained an injury. To avoid being discovered, she removed a bullet from her own leg with a knife, without any anesthesia. Eventually, a doctor discovered her true identity. Instead of facing punishment, Sampson was awarded a military pension, recognizing her service and sacrifice.
Leader of the American Revolution, first president of the United States
George Washington, born on February 22, 1732, in Virginia, is a towering figure in American history, often referred to as the Father of the Nation and the Father of the U.S. Army. His leadership was pivotal in securing American independence and shaping the fledgling nation. Washington's military career began during the French and Indian War, where he served as a major in Virginia's provincial militia. His courage and tactical skill during the Battle of Monongahela earned him a reputation for bravery, despite defeat. By 1758, he was a brigade commander, the only American to achieve that rank during the war. He would later resign his commission the same year and devote the next 15 years to his agricultural enterprise. He would emerge as a moderate leader in opposition to English colonial policy, but as Virginia hardened in its position against England, he accepted the leadership of the volunteer militia and represented Virginia in the Second Continental Congress. In 1775, the Continental Congress appointed Washington as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. He led the Army through the Revolutionary War, employing a strategy focused on preserving his forces and avoiding major defeats. His first major victory was at Boston in 1776, followed by significant victories at Trenton and Princeton. Despite setbacks, Washington's leadership was crucial in maintaining the army's morale and effectiveness. Washington's strategic acumen was evident in the successful Franco-American offensive at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781, which led to the British surrender and secured American independence. After the war, Washington's commitment to civilian authority was demonstrated when he resigned his commission in 1783, returning to private life. Washington's influence extended beyond the battlefield. He presided over the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States in 1789. His presidency set many precedents for the new nation. Washington's legacy is immortalized in numerous monuments and memorials, and he remains a symbol of American leadership and integrity. His contributions to the founding and shaping of the United States are why he is one of the most revered figures in American history.
From Slave to Spy
James Armistead was an enslaved Black American who served the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War under a French nobleman — Marquis de Lafayette — who had aligned himself with General George Washington. Armistead was assigned to be a spy, infiltrating the British under the guise of a runaway slave. Armistead's intelligence reports proved to be valuable and helped ensure the effectiveness of a blockade that led to the British Surrender on October 19, 1781. Marquis de Lafayette would later write a testimony to Armistead's actions, which led to his emancipation. Honored by his actions, James Armistead would add Lafayette to his name after being freed.
Supported Revolutionary War-era Artillery
In 1775, Margaret Cochran Corbin accompanied her husband, John Corbin, an artillerist in the Pennsylvania militia, on campaign with the Continental Army. She most likely cooked, washed clothes and cared for the sick and wounded, typical occupations of Soldiers' wives of the time. On November 16, 1776, she stepped out of her familiar role as a camp follower and became a combatant in the Battle of Fort Washington, New York. She assisted her husband as he and his crew loaded and fired their cannon into waves of attacking Hessian soldiers. John Corbin died during the enemy assault, and Margaret Corbin immediately took his place at the cannon until she fell with severe wounds to her jaw, chest and left arm. Unable to flee, she became a prisoner when the fort fell, but the British paroled her soon afterward. Largely incapacitated by her wounds, she joined the Corps of Invalids and served for a time at West Point. On July 6, 1779, the congressional Board of War granted Margaret Corbin a lifelong pension in recognition of her military service, making her the first woman to receive such compensation from Congress.
Hero at the Battle of Bunker Hill
Born into slavery in Massachusetts, his surname might be the hometown of his first owner. When his second owner became a major in the Continental Army, he freed Salem so he could enlist in the militia. During the Revolutionary War, Salem fought alongside other black Minutemen such as Alexander Ames, Seymour Burr, Titus Coburn, and Salem Poor. Historians often credit Peter Salem with mortally wounding British Maj. John Pitcairn in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Pitcairn's death and more than 1,000 other British casualties made Bunker Hill a costly victory for the mother country. After his initial militia enlistment expired, Salem reenlisted for one year in the 4th Continental Regiment on January 1, 1776. He served in the New York Campaign and fought in the Battle of Trenton. Reenlisting for a further three years on New Year's Day 1777, and went on to fight at Saratoga, Monmouth Courthouse and Stony Point. Salem then enlisted a fourth and final time, serving from January 1 to March 1, 1780.
Born April 3, 1782, in Detroit, Michigan, Alexander Macomb entered the Army as a cornet of light dragoons in 1799 but was discharged in 1800. He returned to the Army in 1801 as a second lieutenant of infantry and served as secretary of the commission negotiating treaties with the Indians of the Mississippi Territory. He joined the Corps of Engineers in October 1802 as a first lieutenant and superintended the construction of a depot, armory and fortifications in the Carolinas and Georgia. He also wrote a treatise on military law. After rising to lieutenant colonel in the Corps of Engineers in 1810, he was appointed colonel with the 3rd Artillery in 1812 and was promoted to brigadier general in 1814. Macomb became an Army hero at the Battle of Plattsburg on Sept. 11, 1814, when he led a force of 1,500 regular troops and detachments of militia against nearly 11,000 British troops on the northern New York frontier. Macomb was able to deceive the British into believing he had a larger force than he had. Macomb also camouflaged roads into dead ends, causing disorientation among the British. His actions bought time for the Americans to defeat the British Navy at Lake Champlain. The naval victory forced the British Army to retreat into Canada. Macomb was promoted to major general and awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the United States legislature. When the Army was reorganized after the War of 1812, he was appointed colonel and chief engineer in 1821. In that position, he administered the start of federal river and harbor improvements. President John Quincy Adams selected Macomb to serve as the second commanding general of the Army with the rank of major general in 1828. Macomb advocated for doubling Army strength, increasing enlisted pay, providing relief for widows and orphans and instituting a regularized officer retirement and replacement system. Macomb died in office on June, 25 1841, and was buried with the highest military honors in Congressional Cemetery.
Nicknamed “Old Hickory” by his men because of his toughness, Maj. Gen. Andrew Jackson displayed innate command ability during the War of 1812. Despite a lack of military training and experience, as a Tennessee militia commander, he waged a five-month campaign against the Creek Nation. It culminated in a decisive victory at Horseshoe Bend, in present-day Alabama, in March 1814. The battle made Jackson a national hero, and he received a promotion to major general in the U.S. Army a few months later. Having defeated the Creeks, Jackson shifted his attention to the British, who had established a base at Spanish-occupied Pensacola, Florida. On November 7, 1814, he captured Pensacola after a brief skirmish in which the British and Creek forces fled and the Spanish garrison surrendered. Learning that the British had sailed to Louisiana, Jackson led his command overland in pursuit. In January 1815, he defeated the British at New Orleans. The battle ended the War of 1812 on a triumphant note, and it cemented Jackson's national reputation. In March 1818, Jackson became involved in the First Seminole War. Acting under orders from Secretary of War John C. Calhoun, he invaded Spanish Florida in retaliation for Seminole cross-border raids. Spain ceded Florida to the United States in 1819, and Jackson went on to serve two terms as the country's seventh president.
Franklin Pierce was born in 1804 with the militia tradition in his veins, the son of Benjamin Pierce, a hero of the American Revolution who was among Washington's most trusted combat officers. Franklin attended Bowdoin College in Maine and, while there, formed a life-long friendship with Nathaniel Hawthorne, later one of his biographers. Upon graduation, he returned to his native state of New Hampshire and read for the law. Politics caught his fancy and his ambitions. He was a stirring orator and a tireless worker, and his progress was rapid: a member of the state legislature by 1828; its speaker by 1831. That same year, he was appointed a colonel in the New Hampshire militia and served as the governor's aide-de-camp. He retired from Congress in 1842 and returned to state politics and his law practice in Concord, New Hampshire. The 1846-48 Mexican War took him into active military service as a brigadier general, commanding a brigade in Gen. Winfield Scott's army. Pierce brought his troops in good order from New England to Veracruz and then overland to join Scott in the field before Mexico City. He participated bravely in numerous engagements, proving himself to be his father's son. In 1853, Franklin Pierce became the 14th president of the United States of America.
Appointed Commanding General of the Army
Jacob Jennings Brown was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, on May 9, 1775; was raised by Quaker parents on the family farm; was reported by one anonymous biographer to have “pursued learning with zeal and perseverance and acquired it with facility”; supervised a school at Crosswicks, New Jersey, 1793-1796; engaged in surveying on the Ohio frontier, 1796-1798; taught briefly in New York City; was briefly military secretary to Major General Alexander Hamilton; purchased wilderness shorelands on Lake Ontario in northern New York, 1799; founded the village of Brownville and became a successful farmer; married Pamelia Williams, 1802; was elected to the state legislature and served also as a county judge; was appointed colonel of militia, 1809, brigadier general, 1811, and major general, 1812; was appointed major general of New York Volunteers and assigned to command the Oswego-Lake St. Francis sector; participated in an action at Ogdensburg, New York, 1812, and repulsed the British at Sackett's Harbor, 1813; was appointed brigadier general in the Regular Army, July 1813; participated in the abortive Wilkinson expedition against Montreal but emerged with his reputation unimpaired; was appointed major general and assigned to command of the Niagara frontier, January 1814; defeated the British in the battles of Chippewa and Lundy's Lane, suffering severe wounds in the latter action, July 1814; received the thanks of Congress for his battlefield achievements and was presented by that body with a gold medal, November 1814; was the senior officer of the United States Army, 15 June 1815-24 February 1828; by act of Congress, assumed the formal title of commanding general of the Army, June 1821; recommended pay incentives to encourage reenlistments, pay increases for noncommissioned officers, and periodic centralized unit training to avert deterioration in widely scattered and fragmented elements; died while in office at Washington, D.C., on 24 February 1828.
Spurred by accounts of Indian Atrocities on the western frontier, Harrison left his medical studies in Virginia to join the Army in 1791. After serving in the Northwest Territory, he resigned from the Army in 1798. In 1800, Harrison was made the governor and superintendent of Indian Affairs for the territory of Indiana. After a series of attacks by Tecumseh, Harrison reentered service and led a force of one thousand men, composed mostly of militia and volunteers, to the Indian settlement at Tippecanoe. After a fierce fight, the Indians were forced to retreat by a cavalry charge. Harrison was highly complimented by President Madison and the Kentucky and Indiana legislatures for the victory. After the battle, he was given the nickname "Tippecanoe." During the War of 1812, Harrison served as a major-general with the Kentucky militia before being appointed to the supreme command of the Army of the Northwest. He recaptured Detroit in the fall of 1813 and then decisively defeated the British and their Indian allies on the Thames near Thomasville, Ontario. Harrison's forces included 4,000 volunteers commanded by the governor of Kentucky. Harrison later received a gold medal from Congress for his victory on the Thames. He became the ninth president of the United States in 1840, serving for only one month before dying of illness.
Commanding general of the U.S. Army, standardized drill regulations, advocated for professional schooling for officers
Maj. Gen. Winfield Scott, known as the “Grand Old Man of the Army,” served as a general officer from the War of 1812 to the Civil War, a remarkable forty-seven-year tenure. Born in Virginia, Scott earned the nickname “Old Fuss and Feathers” for his strict adherence to military discipline and appearance. As a brigadier general, he led his infantry brigade to victory against British forces at the Battle of Chippewa. Following the War of 1812, Scott played a pivotal role in upgrading and standardizing Army drill regulations. In the 1830s, Scott commanded campaigns against Native American tribes, including an indecisive effort in the Second Seminole War and a successful campaign in the Creek War of 1836. He also oversaw the controversial Cherokee Removal, known as the “Trail of Tears,” approving Chief John Ross's plan for the Cherokee to lead their own relocation. On July 5, 1841, Scott became commanding general of the U.S. Army, advocating for professional schooling for officers. During The Mexican War, Scott led the campaign that captured Mexico City, earning praise from British General Arthur Wellesley as “the greatest living soldier.” Scott retired in November 1861 due to poor health and passed away at West Point on May 29, 1866, after witnessing the Union's victory in the Civil War.
Zachary Taylor's military career spanned more than 40 years. He joined the Army in 1808 and fought in the Northwest Territory during the War of 1812. He spent the next three decades at various garrison posts and fought in the Black Hawk War and the Second Seminole War. In 1846, President James K. Polk stationed a small army led by future U.S. president, Brig. Gen. Zachary Taylor, near the Rio Grande, to pressure Mexico into accepting the river as the boundary between the two countries. Nicknamed “Old Rough and Ready,” Taylor enjoyed a growing reputation as a combat commander dating back to the Second Seminole War. When hostilities erupted in May 1846, Taylor's force quickly showed its mettle, especially the “flying artillery” of cannons pulled by horses. Their superior mobility and firepower wreaked havoc on the Mexican army. By June, Taylor had earned a promotion to major general. For his "fortitude, skill, enterprise, and courage," which distinguished the brilliant operations on the Rio Grande, Taylor was recognized with a Congressional Gold Medal. Taylor retired from the military in 1847 and a year later became the 12th president of the United States. He unfortunately died of gastroenteritis on July 9, 1850, having served only 16 months in office.
In early 1863, the 54th Massachusetts Infantry was activated. More than 1,000 — about 25% — were former slaves. Frederick Douglass, a well-known abolitionist, helped recruit Soldiers for the unit, including his own two sons. The 54th proved their bravery during the storming of Fort Wagner on James Island, South Carolina, on July 18, 1863. Sgt. William H. Carney, a former slave, earned the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle. More than a third of the regiment was killed or wounded during the fighting. The battle was immortalized in the 1989 film “Glory.”
Medal of Honor Recipient
Alexander Kelly was a first sergeant with Company F, 6th U.S. Colored Troops, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1864, at Chaffin's Farm, Virginia. His citation for the Medal of Honor reads: Gallantly seized the colors, which had fallen near the enemy's lines of abatis, raised them and rallied the men at a time of confusion and in a place of the greatest danger.
First Lieutenant Alonzo H. Cushing, born on January 19, 1841, in Delafield, Wisconsin, and raised in Fredonia, New York, graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in June 1861. Commissioned into the artillery branch, he served with distinction in the Army of the Potomac, participating in major battles such as Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. On July 3, 1863, during the Battle of Gettysburg, Cushing commanded Battery A, 4th U.S. Artillery, II Corps. Positioned on Cemetery Ridge, his battery faced the brunt of Lt. Gen. James Longstreet's assault. Despite severe wounds to his abdomen and shoulder, Cushing refused to evacuate and continued to direct his remaining two cannons. His leadership and bravery were pivotal in repelling the Confederate assault led by Maj. Gen. George Pickett. Cushing was ultimately killed by a gunshot to the head, but his actions significantly contributed to the Union's victory at Gettysburg. Cushing was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on November 6, 2014, by President Barack Obama. During the ceremony, President Obama stated, "This story is part of our larger American story, one that continues today." Cushing's valor and sacrifice are commemorated at his burial site at West Point, where his headstone reads, "Faithful unto death."
During the War with Spain in 1898, nurses were selected to join the Army due to an epidemic of typhoid fever and other tropical diseases. Due to their exemplary performance, Congress officially established the U.S. Army Nurse Corps in 1901. Although nurses had tended sick and wounded Soldiers since 1775, this was the first time a formal nursing unit was formed. Their work continues to this day.
Medal of Honor recipient
Although just sixteen when the Civil War erupted, Arthur MacArthur Jr. was determined to enlist, ignoring his father's wishes that he train for a career in the law, or at least attend West Point. No sooner had his father arranged an appointment to West Point than he directly commissioned as first lieutenant in the 24th Wisconsin Volunteers.
Arthur first became a highly valued member of the unit, then a genuine hero. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for an action on Nov. 25, 1863, in which MacArthur seized the fallen regimental flag from the ground near the fallen color bearer and led the men up Missionary Ridge near Chattanooga, Tennessee. The commander who recommended him for the award commented that "he was most distinguished in action on a field where many in the regiment displayed conspicuous gallantry, worthy of the highest praise."
On Aug. 1, 1898, as a newly commissioned brigadier general during the War with Spain, he commanded a brigade of 4,800 volunteers that arrived in Manila following the defeat of the Spanish navy by Admiral Dewey. Upon arrival, the American forces, alongside Filipino insurgents led by Emilio Aguinaldo, faced a Spanish commander who negotiated the surrender of his forces following a battle. MacArthur's brigade encountered unexpected heavy fire from a Spanish unit unaware of the surrender agreement. Demonstrating "much gallantry and excellent judgment," MacArthur successfully led his brigade to defeat the renegade Spanish forces. His actions during this skirmish earned him the Medal of Honor in recognition of his bravery and leadership under fire.
Arthur MacArthur's military career continued to be distinguished, and he later served in various significant roles, including as the military governor of the Philippines. He retired from military service in 1909. His legacy is further honored through his son, General Douglas MacArthur, who also became a prominent military leader.
In April of 1900, MacArthur was appointed military governor of the Philippines, replacing General Otis. In 1909, he retired after being passed over for the Army's top job, Chief of Staff, despite being the highest-ranking officer.
Arthur MacArthur Jr. is one of only two fathers who shared the privilege with a son of both being Medal of Honor recipients. Arthur’s legacy is honored through his son, World War II MOH recipient Gen. Douglas MacArthur, and his lifelong dedication to military service. Arthur died on Sept. 5, 1912, at a reunion of the 24th Wisconsin as he took the stand to address the room. They wrapped his body in the flag hanging on the wall, which was the flag he had carried to the top of Missionary Ridge as a teenager. The Army legend was buried in Milwaukee but reinterred at Arlington National Cemetery in 1926.
From his exploits as a teenage hero in the Union Army until his death on Sept. 5, 1912, at a reunion of his Wisconsin regiment, Arthur MacArthur, Jr., was a dedicated soldier who was in many ways the archetype of the 19th-century U.S. Army officer.
In 1866, after the disbandment of the United States Colored Troops (the official Army designation for Black Soldiers who fought in the Civil War), Congress established six all-Black Army regiments. These regiments were initially assigned to combat Native American tribes resisting settler expansion on the western frontier, serving from the 1860s through the 1890s. While stationed in the West, these soldiers earned the nickname "Buffalo Soldiers." The exact origin of this nickname is unclear, but it is believed to have been given to them by Native American warriors they encountered during battles. According to popular lore, Native Americans may have called the soldiers "Buffalo Soldiers" because their dark, curly hair resembled a buffalo's mane or because of the fierce fighting spirit displayed by the soldiers, akin to that of Great Plains buffalo.
During nearly 30 years of service on the American frontier, the Buffalo Soldiers participated in approximately 200 engagements, and 14 of them received the Medal of Honor. These regiments continued to show their valor in battles during The War with Spain (1898) and the Philippine-American War (1899-1902), famously participating alongside Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders in the Battle of San Juan Hill.
In 1992, the U.S. Congress designated July 28 as Buffalo Soldiers Day to commemorate the formation of the first regular Army regiments comprised of African American Soldiers.
Fought in Civil War, Career Soldier
Edward Cohota enlisted in the Union Army in 1864. He served for over a year with the 23rd Massachusetts Infantry, with which he fought in battles that included Cold Harbor, Petersburg and Appomattox Courthouse. During the war, he had been shot seven times in just the three months after enlisting, though he was able to avoid serious injury. He also often risked his own life to save others. At Cold Harbor, he dragged to safety a fellow soldier and escorted him to medical help after the end of the battle. After the end of the Civil War, Cohota attempted to find work near his home in Gloucester, Massachusetts, but after failing to do so, he moved to Boston. There, he met old friends from the Army and eventually reenlisted in that branch, joining the 15th U.S. Infantry. From there, he served for another 30 years. He first served for 20 years with Company C in Fort Randall, Dakota Territory. There, he performed several duties and met his future wife, Anna, whom he married sometime in his 30s. After Fort Randall, Cohota moved to Company H, where he served as a cook and a baker at Fort Niobrara in Nebraska.
Medal of Honor Recipient
George D. Wilson, born in Belmont County, Ohio, in 1830, was a tradesman and journeyman shoemaker before enlisting in the Union Army's Company B, 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on August 31, 1861. He volunteered for the daring Andrews' Raid, a mission aimed at disrupting Confederate supply lines during the Civil War, which later became known as the Great Locomotive Chase. On April 12, 1862, Wilson and 21 fellow Raiders led by James J. Andrews — a Kentucky-born spy — commandeered a locomotive named the General in Marietta, Georgia, and attempted to destroy railroad tracks and telegraph wires while traveling north. During their mission, they were pursued by the General's conductor and Confederate search parties and were ultimately captured. Andrews was tried as a spy and saboteur and was executed on June 7, 1862. Wilson and six of his fellow Soldiers were also tried and hanged on June 18, 1862, in Atlanta, Georgia. The remaining Raiders staged an escape, but six were recaptured. They were later part of a prisoner exchange in mid-March 1863. After their release, the six were awarded the Medal of Honor — the first Soldiers in U.S. Army history to earn the award after it was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln. Wilson was not honored at the time, but 162 years after his action was recognized by President Joseph. R. Biden Jr. during a Medal of Honor ceremony at the White House on July 3, 2024. The ceremony recognized the extraordinary heroism of Wilson and his fellow Raiders, who demonstrated unyielding courage and bravery, reflecting great credit upon themselves and the Union.
Henry O. Flipper was born into slavery in Georgia in 1856, but later became the first African American graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and the first commissioned Black officer in the U.S. Army. After graduating from the academy, he joined the 10th Cavalry, one of the “Buffalo Soldier” units, at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He demonstrated his engineering skills by building roads, telegraph lines and a drainage system known as “Flipper’s Ditch,” which remains a national historic landmark. In 1880, Flipper and the 10th Cavalry were reassigned to Fort Concho, Texas, and sent to fight Chief Victorio and his Apache warriors. In recognition of his achievement, he was reassigned to Fort Davis, Texas, where he served as assistant quartermaster. In 1881, Flipper discovered a $3,000 discrepancy in commissary funds and attempted to conceal it until he could repay the amount from his own pocket. This led to a court-martial and dismissal from the Army in 1882, but in 1976 a review deemed his punishment unduly harsh, leading to an honorable discharge, and in 1999, he was posthumously pardoned by President Bill Clinton. Flipper authored several works on mining, engineering, history and property law, as well as two memoirs that provide invaluable insights into his experience.
Little Drummer Boy
John Clem, born on August 13, 1851, in Newark, Ohio, is a legendary figure in Army history. After the death of his mother, Clem ran away from home at age nine and attempted to join the Union Army. He was turned away from the 3rd Ohio, but after some persistence joined the 22nd Michigan Infantry Regiment as a drummer boy. During the Battle of Chickamauga on September 20, 1863, 12-year-old Clem found himself separated from his unit. When a Confederate colonel demanded his surrender, Clem shot the officer and escaped to Union lines. His actions during the battle, including riding an artillery caisson to the front and engaging in hand-to-hand combat, earned him a promotion to sergeant, making him the youngest noncommissioned officer in U.S. Army history. Clem was captured by Confederate forces a month later but was eventually exchanged and continued to serve with the Army of the Cumberland until his discharge in September 1864. After the war, Clem graduated high school in Ohio and, despite failing the West Point entrance exam, was appointed second lieutenant in the 24th Infantry Regiment by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1871. He was promoted to first lieutenant in 1874 and later completed artillery school at Fort Monroe, Virginia. Clem served in various capacities, including as chief quartermaster at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, before retiring in 1915 as a brigadier general. In 1916, he was promoted to major general while on the retired list. Clem passed away on May 13, 1937, in San Antonio, Texas, and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. John Denny, of Company C, 9th U.S. Cavalry, exemplified the Army's core values during the Victorio Apache campaign in September 1879. Born in Big Flats, New York, Denny served with distinction as a Buffalo Soldier in the Indian Wars. During a five-day pursuit of Apache Chief Victorio and his warriors through the New Mexico desert, Denny and his unit were ambushed and trapped in a box canyon. Despite orders to remain under cover, Denny risked his life to rescue a wounded private lying in the open, running 100 yards under heavy fire to carry the private to safety. Later that day, Denny volunteered for a perilous mission to climb a cliff and displace the Apaches, inspiring others to join him. The volunteers' actions suppressed enemy fire, allowing the cavalry troops to escape. Denny's leadership and bravery were pivotal in the mission's success. He carried a wounded Navajo scout to safety while descending the cliff under enemy fire. 1st Lt. Emmet, G Troop, 9th Cavalary credited Denny's actions as the deciding factor in the battle, stating that without Denny, the cavalry troops would have perished. For his extraordinary heroism, Sgt. John Denny was awarded the Medal of Honor. His commitment to the Army's values extended beyond the battlefield, earning him the respect and admiration of his fellow Soldiers. He continually displayed the high moral ethics of the noncommissioned officer.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Cpl. Joseph De Castro was born in Boston, Massachusetts and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during Pickett's Charge at the Battle of Gettysburg, July 3, 1863. As part of the 19th Massachusetts Infantry, his unit helped defend Cemetery Ridge against the disastrous Confederate assault. De Castro attacked a Confederate flag bearer from the 19th Virginia Infantry Regiment with the staff from his own set of colors. De Castro became one of seven men from the 19th Massachusetts Infantry to be awarded the Medal of Honor, Dec. 1, 1864. Castro continued to serve in the regular Army after the Civil War.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Maj. Gen. Joshua L. Chamberlain fought for the Union Army during the Civil War. As the commanding officer of the 20th Regiment Maine Volunteer Infantry, he led his troops at the Battle of Gettysburg. Tasked with securing the left flank at Little Round Top, his men fought bravely to ensure a Union victory. When they ran out of ammunition, Chamberlain ordered his Soldiers to attack the Confederate army with a bayonet charge. This helped secure Gen. George Meade’s left side. Chamberlain served till the end of the war when he accepted the ceremonial surrender of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House, Virginia. For his service during the war, Chamberlain earned the Medal of Honor. His legacy as a leader in the U.S. Army continues with depictions of him in film, television and books about the Civil War.
Civil War Surgeon, Medal of Honor recipient
Dr. Mary Walker, born in Oswego, New York, is a critical figure from the Civil War, and remains the only woman to have been awarded the Medal of Honor. Encouraged to pursue education, she graduated as a medical doctor from Syracuse Medical College in 1855. When the Civil War began in 1861, Walker volunteered for the Union Army after being denied a surgeon's position. Initially working for free at a temporary hospital in Washington, D.C., Walker also organized the Women's Relief Organization to assist families of wounded soldiers who traveled to visit them. In 1862, she treated the wounded in Virginia field hospitals, and by 1863, her medical credentials were accepted, leading to her appointment as a War Department surgeon in Tennessee, with a rank equivalent to lieutenant or captain. Captured by Confederate forces in April 1864, Walker was held as a prisoner of war for four months before being exchanged. She then served as a medical director at a hospital for women prisoners in Kentucky. Beyond her medical contributions, Walker was a staunch advocate for women's rights, often wearing the "Bloomer costume" and later men's clothing, for which she was arrested multiple times. In November 1865, President Andrew Johnson awarded Walker the Medal of Honor. However, her medal was rescinded in 1917 due to her civilian status, a decision she defied by continuing to wear it until she died in 1919. In 1977, President Jimmy Carter restored the honor posthumously, recognizing her exceptional contributions.
Captain in the famed "Rough Riders"
Originally from New Mexico, Capt. Maximiliano Luna fought in The War with Spain as an officer in the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry — better known as the "Rough Riders", famously commanded by the future 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt. Capt. Maximiliano Luna was one of the Rough Riders' four captains and the highest-ranking Hispanic in the famous regiment. He served in all the major battles fought in Cuba and played a key role as a translator when the Spanish surrendered. While serving in the Philippine-American War, Luna drowned while crossing the Agno River on the island of Luzon on November 18, 1899. His name is the first listed on the Rough Riders Memorial in Section 22 of Arlington National Cemetery.
Civil War commander, oversaw the incarceration of Jefferson Davis
Lt. Gen. Nelson A. Miles had a distinguished forty-two-year career in the U.S. Army, rising from private to commanding general. Born in Massachusetts, Miles was wounded at Fair Oaks during the Civil War and later commanded the 61st New York Infantry at Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, where he sustained severe injuries. Despite missing the Battle of Gettysburg, he returned to serve at the Wilderness and Spotsylvania Courthouse, earning a promotion to brigadier general. He commanded a brigade and division in the Petersburg and Appomattox Campaigns and oversaw the incarceration of Confederate President Jefferson Davis at Fort Monroe, Virginia.
Promoted to colonel in the Regular Army in 1866, Miles commanded the 40th U.S. Infantry, a regiment of African American troops, and directed the Freedmen's Bureau in North Carolina. He became a successful commander on the post-Civil War frontier, later promoted to major general after campaigns against American Indians. Despite the Posse Comitatus Act, President Grover Cleveland directed Miles to help quell the Pullman Strike in 1894. He became commanding general of the U.S. Army in 1895 and led the invasion of Puerto Rico during the War with Spain, serving as the first head of the military government there. Promoted to lieutenant general in 1900, Miles retired in 1903. He volunteered for service in World War I at age seventy-seven, but President Woodrow Wilson politely declined his offer.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Private Philip G. Shadrach, born on September 15, 1840, in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, was a courageous Union Army Soldier who played a pivotal role in the Civil War's Andrews' Raid. Orphaned at an early age, Shadrach enlisted in the Union Army's Company K, 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on September 20, 1861, at the age of 21. On April 12, 1862, Shadrach and 21 fellow Raiders led by James J. Andrews — a Kentucky-born spy — commandeered a locomotive named the General in Marietta, Georgia, and attempted to destroy railroad tracks and telegraph wires while traveling north. During their mission, they were pursued by the General's conductor and Confederate search parties and were ultimately captured. Andrews was tried as a spy and saboteur and was executed on June 7, 1862. Shadrach and six of his fellow Soldiers were also tried and hanged on June 18, 1862, in Atlanta, Georgia. The remaining Raiders staged an escape, but six were recaptured. They were later part of a prisoner exchange in mid-March 1863. After their release, the six were awarded the Medal of Honor — the first Soldiers in U.S. Army history to earn the award after it was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln. Shadrach was not honored at the time, but 162 years after his action was recognized by President Joseph. R. Biden Jr. during a Medal of Honor ceremony at the White House on July 3, 2024. The ceremony recognized the extraordinary heroism of Wilson and his fellow Raiders, who demonstrated unyielding courage and bravery, reflecting great credit upon themselves and the Union.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. Powhatan Beaty, born into slavery in Richmond, Virginia, in 1837, secured his freedom with his family and moved to Ohio in 1849. Following the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, Beaty enlisted in the 5th Regiment of the U.S. Colored Troops. His leadership qualities were quickly recognized, and he was promoted to sergeant on his second day of service. Beaty's valor was prominently displayed during the Battle of New Market Heights in 1864. After all officers were killed or wounded, Beaty took command, regrouping the remaining troops and leading a successful assault that captured the Confederate position. For his extraordinary bravery, Beaty was awarded the Medal of Honor. Throughout the Civil War, he fought in 13 battles, consistently demonstrating courage and leadership. After the war, Beaty pursued a successful career as an actor, touring the country for many years.
Medal of Honor Recipient, 26th U.S. President
Harvard graduate, legislator, rancher, police chief and author, thirty-nine-year-old Theodore Roosevelt had already had a full life when, in April 1898, he resigned his post as assistant secretary of the Navy and volunteered for service. To “TR,” no other course was possible; he firmly believed that war developed character and he was anxious to have his chance. Together, he and Col. Leonard Wood formed the “Rough Riders,” a volunteer cavalry regiment that brought together Ivy League athletes and Western cowboys. At Tampa, he and his troops jostled to get a place on transports leaving for Cuba but had to leave behind their horses. When Wood rose to brigade command, Roosevelt succeeded him as the commander of the Rough Riders. On 1 July 1898, Roosevelt and the Rough Riders won lasting fame in their assault up Kettle Hill. The only American on horseback, Roosevelt led the advance under heavy fire, urging his troops forward. Alongside other units that included the Buffalo Soldiers of the 10th Cavalry and a Gatling gun detachment, the Rough Riders overran Kettle Hill. Roosevelt's heroism propelled him in short order to the governorship of New York, the vice presidency, and after McKinley's assassination, the presidency in 1901. One hundred years later, he received a posthumous Medal of Honor for his gallantry at San Juan Heights.
First double recipient of the Medal of Honor
Capt. Thomas Custer, born on March 15, 1845, in New Rumley, Ohio, is renowned for being the first double recipient of the Medal of Honor. Six years younger than his famous brother, Gen. George Custer, Thomas idolized him and followed him into the military. At the age of 16, he lied about his age to enlist in the Army's 21st Ohio Volunteer Infantry in 1861. Custer participated in several battles in Tennessee and Georgia before serving escort duties on the staff of three generals. After reenlisting in 1864, he was promoted to second lieutenant and transferred to the 6th Michigan Cavalry, where he served under his brother in Virginia. He fought in several campaigns, including the Battle of Five Forks in April 1865, earning a battlefield promotion to brevet major. On April 3, 1865, Custer led a charge over an enemy barricade near Namozine Church, Virginia, capturing a Confederate flag and 14 prisoners. Three days later, at the Battle of Sailor's Creek, he captured two more flags, despite being wounded and having his horse shot out from under him. For these actions, Custer received two Medals of Honor, becoming the first of 19 men to earn the nation's highest military honor more than once. Capturing enemy flags during the Civil War was highly significant, as regimental flags guided troop movements and symbolized local pride. The loss of a flag brought confusion and shame to the enemy regiment. After the Civil War, Custer continued his military career, serving as a first lieutenant in the 7th U.S. Cavalry alongside his brothers George and Boston. He was promoted to captain in 1875 and commanded Company C. Tragically, Thomas Custer and his brothers died during the Battle of Little Bighorn on June 25, 1876, often referred to as "Custer's last stand." Initially buried where he fell, Thomas Custer was reinterred at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery in Kansas in 1877. His bravery and dedication to duty are remembered as part of the Custer legacy, highlighting the contributions of more than one Custer in American military history.
Leader of the Union Army in the Civil War
Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, a West Point graduate and a veteran of The Mexican War, was working as a clerk in Galena, Illinois at the outbreak of the Civil War. Having resigned from the Army in 1854, Grant was commissioned as a brigadier general in August 1861. His victories at Forts Henry and Donelson in February 1862 earned him the nickname “Unconditional Surrender” Grant and brought him national recognition. Despite a surprise Confederate attack at Shiloh resulting in heavy casualties, Grant's leadership and the arrival of reinforcements led to a Union victory. President Abraham Lincoln, facing demands for Grant's removal, famously stated, “I can't spare this man. He fights.” Grant's tenacity was further demonstrated during the Vicksburg Campaign of 1863, culminating in the Confederate surrender on July 4. His subsequent victory at Chattanooga solidified his reputation as the North's premier field commander. In March 1864, President Lincoln promoted Grant to lieutenant general and appointed him general in chief of the U.S. Army. Grant's relentless campaigns against Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia led to the fall of Richmond and Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse in April 1865. After the war, Grant served two terms as the eighteenth president of the United States, overseeing Reconstruction and efforts to eliminate the Ku Klux Klan.
Medal of Honor recipient
In March 1863, Carney enlisted in the Union Army, joining Company C, 54th Massachusetts Colored Infantry Regiment. On July 18, 1863, during the regiment's charge on Fort Wagner in Charleston, South Carolina, Carney displayed extraordinary bravery. When the color guard was shot, Carney seized the Union flag, sustaining multiple gunshot wounds while keeping the flag aloft and urging his comrades forward. He planted the flag at the fort's base and held it until he was rescued, never allowing it to touch the ground. Carney's actions earned him a promotion to sergeant and on May 23, 1900, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. The 54th Massachusetts Colored Infantry Regiment, disestablished long ago, was reactivated as the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment in 2008 as a ceremonial unit.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Pvt. David Barkley, born in Laredo, Texas, enlisted in the Texas National Guard in April 1917 at the age of 17, shortly after the United States entered World War I. It is believed that Barkley enlisted under the anglicized version of his name to avoid being placed in a segregated unit. In August 1918, Barkley arrived in France and was assigned to Company A, 356th Infantry, 89th Division. On Nov. 9, 1918, Barkley and Pvt. Waldo Hatler volunteered for a reconnaissance mission. Their task was to swim across the Meuse River near Pouilly, France, to gather information on the enemy’s position, deployment, and strength, and to return with drawn maps of the enemy encampment. During the return journey, Barkley’s legs cramped, and he tragically drowned. Despite this, the mission succeeded as Hatler made it back with the crucial information. Barkley’s body was later retrieved and honored by being laid to rest in state at the Alamo, making him the second soldier to receive such an honor. He was subsequently interred at the San Antonio National Cemetery. For his heroic sacrifice, Barkley was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, becoming the only Hispanic American to receive the medal in World War I. In addition to the Medal of Honor, he was awarded the Purple Heart, the French Croix de Guerre, and the Italian Croce al Merito di Guerra for his actions. Barkley’s bravery and ultimate sacrifice are remembered with great respect and honor, reflecting the highest traditions of military service. His legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Distinguished Service Award, “Hello Girls" Lead Operator
Grace Banker, a distinguished member of the U.S. Army Signal Corps during World War I, was born in Passaic, New Jersey. After attending Barnard College in New York City, she worked as a telephone operator for the American Telephone and Telegraph Company, quickly rising to the position of switchboard instructor due to her exceptional communication skills. In December 1917, Banker responded to an ad from the U.S. Army Signal Corps seeking bilingual women switchboard operators, and her experience led to her selection as the leader of the "Hello Girls." Following training, Banker and her team were deployed to Chaumont, France, to serve at Gen. John J. Pershing’s headquarters. After five months, she transferred to the First Army headquarters at Ligny-en-Barrois as chief operator, where her team played a crucial role in the assault on St. Mihiel by managing communications, including sending, decoding, and intercepting messages. Banker and the Hello Girls also served at Bar-le-Duc, supporting the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. At the height of the war, they connected 150,000 calls a day. When the Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, Banker expressed disbelief, noting the challenges of maintaining communication lines. Post-war, Banker worked at President Woodrow Wilson’s temporary French residence during the Treaty of Versailles talks, later joining the occupying forces in Coblenz, Germany, until 1920. Grace Banker’s legacy as a leader and pioneer in military communications is remembered with great respect. Her courage and competence were integral to the American effort in World War I, and she received a Distinguished Service Award for her contributions, one of only 18 Signal Corps members to be so honored. Despite this recognition, Banker and the Hello Girls were initially ineligible for Veterans' benefits. Banker passed away in December 1960. In 1977, President Jimmy Carter signed legislation granting Veteran status to the female members of the Signal Corps.
Congressional Gold Medal
The 369th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the French army during World War I. They fought so fiercely that the Germans called them the "Hellfighters." During 191 days of duty at the front, none of them were captured, and none of their ground was taken, but nearly one-third of the unit died in combat. For their efforts, the French government awarded the entire regiment the Croix de Guerre.
During World War I, it wasn’t easy to communicate quickly, especially in France. There was a shortage of switchboard operators and many of the Americans didn’t know enough French to communicate with the operators, anyway. An irritated Gen. John J. Pershing put out a call for women who were fluent in French and English to work as civilians with the Army Signal Corps. More than 7,000 applied, and approximately 450 were hired, greeting callers with a usually cheery “Hello.” The nickname stuck, and communications with the front improved. Calls tripled from 13,000 to 36,000 per day, then to 150,000 a day. When the war was over, the chief signal officer, in his official report, noted that "a large part of the success of the communications of this Army is due to ... a competent staff of women operators." Because of their role in logistics, they were among the last Soldiers to return to the U.S.; they finally all came home in January 1920. After considerable congressional debate, the Signal Corps telephone operators of World War I were granted military status in 1979.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. Henry Johnson, born around July 15, 1892, in Winston Salem, North Carolina, moved to New York as a teenager. He worked various jobs before enlisting in the U.S. Army on June 5, 1917. Johnson was assigned to Company C, 15th New York (Colored) Infantry Regiment, which later became the 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Harlem Hellfighters." During World War I, Johnson served in the Argonne Forest, France, from 1918-1919. On the night of May 15, 1918, while on sentry duty, Johnson and Pvt. Needham Roberts were attacked by a German raiding party. Despite being significantly wounded, Johnson mounted a fierce defense, using his rifle and a Bolo knife to repel the attackers and prevent Roberts from being captured. His bravery resulted in several enemy casualties and earned him the French Croix de Guerre avec Palme. Johnson returned home with 21 combat injuries, which prevented him from resuming his pre-war job. He passed away in July 1929 and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Posthumously, he was awarded the Purple Heart in 1996 and the Distinguished Service Cross in 2002. On June 2, 2015, President Barack Obama posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor to Johnson, with Command Sgt. Maj. Louis Wilson of the New York National Guard accepting on his behalf. President Obama highlighted Johnson's valor, stating, "Sgt. Henry Johnson is one of the five bravest American soldiers in the war."
First General of the Armies of the United States
John J. Pershing was a leading American Soldier of his generation. An 1886 graduate of West Point, Pershing served on the western frontier with the 6th Cavalry and later as a military science professor at the University of Nebraska, where he also earned a law degree. After a stint with the 10th Cavalry, he returned as an instructor to West Point, where the cadets called him “Black Jack” for his time with the Buffalo Soldiers. During the War with Spain, he fought with the 10th Cavalry on Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill. After he served as an observer of the Russo-Japanese War, President Roosevelt promoted Captain Pershing directly to brigadier general over the heads of more than 800 officers senior to him. Tragedy struck in August 1915 when a fire at his family quarters in the Presidio of San Francisco killed his wife and three of his four children. Although grieving, Pershing immediately returned to duty and in 1916 led the Mexican Punitive Expedition to catch Pancho Villa. Having shown his ability to lead a large command on foreign soil without getting involved in party politics, Pershing was the obvious choice by President Wilson to lead the American Expeditionary Forces to France. Pershing organized, trained and supplied the AEF and ensured that it would serve as a distinct American army under American command. After leading the AEF to victory over Germany, he became the only American up to that time to hold the rank of General of the Armies of the United States during his lifetime. He later served as Army chief of staff from 1921 to 1924. Pershing lived long enough to see George C. Marshall, George S. Patton Jr. and other protégés emerge victorious in World War II. He died in Washington, D.C. on July 15, 1948.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Jose Nisperos was born in the Philippines in 1887. While serving as a private with the 34th Company of the Philippine Scouts – Filipinos who were enlisted in the U.S. Army – he was badly wounded during combat operations against outlaws on Sept. 24, 1911. His left arm was broken and lacerated, and he received several spear wounds. Despite his injuries, he continued to fire his rifle with one hand until the enemy was repulsed, thereby aiding materially in preventing the annihilation of his party and the mutilation of their bodies. For his actions, he became the first person of Asian heritage to be awarded the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sergeant William Shemin, born on Oct. 14, 1896, in Bayonne, New Jersey, enlisted in the U.S. Army on Oct. 2, 1917. He served as a rifleman in Company G, 47th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. Shemin participated in the Aisne-Marne Offensive, where he was wounded by shrapnel and a machine gun bullet. From Aug. 7-9, 1918, near the Vesle River, France, Shemin repeatedly exposed himself to heavy machine gun and rifle fire to rescue wounded comrades. After his officers and senior non-commissioned officers became casualties, Shemin took command of his platoon and continued to lead under intense fire until he was wounded. His actions earned him the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart. Shemin was honorably discharged in August 1919 and later earned a degree from the New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University. He established a successful greenhouse and landscaping business in the Bronx, New York, and raised three children. Shemin passed away in 1973. On June 2, 2015, President Barack Obama posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor to Shemin, with his daughters, Elsie Shemin-Roth and Ina Bass, accepting on his behalf. President Obama remarked, "With the most utter disregard for his own safety, Shemin sprang from his position in his platoon trench, dashed out across the open in full sight of the Germans, who opened and maintained a furious burst of machine gun and rifle fire."
Most decorated unit for its size and length of service in U.S. military history
The 442nd Regimental Combat Team was activated on Feb. 1, 1943. During World War II, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the men of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team distinguished themselves with honor and stood as testaments to Japanese American soldiers' courage, sacrifice, and patriotism during World War II. With a motto of "Go For Broke," a reference to taking big risks for great rewards, these units, comprised predominantly of Nisei, or second-generation Japanese Americans, served their country with honor and distinction and were nicknamed the "Nisei Soldiers." The 442nd fought against the Germans in Italy and France, and was the most decorated unit for its size and length of service in U.S. military history. In total, about 14,000 men served, ultimately earning the Congressional Gold Medal, eight Presidential Unit Citations, 21 Medals of Honor, 29 Distinguished Service Crosses, 560 Silver Stars, 4,000 Bronze Stars, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 15 Soldier's Medals and over 4,000 Purple Hearts.
Congressional Gold Medal
The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, also known as the "Six Triple Eight," is famous for accomplishing the Herculean task of sorting through millions of undelivered pieces of mail and packages during World War II. In November 1944, the unit was sent to Birmingham, England, where they were given six months to sort and deliver the mail under difficult working and living conditions. After accomplishing the task, in just three months, they were sent to Rouen, France, for a similar mission. Their achievement improved the morale of U.S. Soldiers by allowing them to communicate with family members back home. In 2022, the unit received the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the United States Congress.
The 761st Tank Battalion, whose members called themselves "The Black Panthers," arrived in Normandy, France, in October 1944 and entered combat shortly thereafter. They would endure a record 183 straight days in combat as they liberated 30 towns on their way into Germany. Due to their great fighting abilities, they were chosen to spearhead several of Gen. Patton’s operations. By the end of April 1945, they were one of the first U.S. battalions to meet up with Soviet forces. The Soldiers of the 761st Tank Battalion earned the nation’s respect and cemented their honored legacy in military and American history.
"One Man Army"
Sgt. 1st Class Augustine Ramos Calero, born in Puerto Rico, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1941 and was assigned to the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Borinqueneers. During World War II, Calero served with the Third Infantry Division and distinguished himself at the Battle of Colmar Pocket. In this battle, he single-handedly neutralized 10 enemy soldiers and captured 21 more, earning the nickname "One Man Army." In 1950, Calero rejoined the 65th Infantry Regiment and fought in the Korean War. Over his 21-year military career, Calero earned 22 medals for his valor, including the Silver Star and the Bronze Star.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Alfred B. Nietzel was born, April 27, 1921, in Queens, N.Y. He joined the U.S. Army, Oct. 5, 1940. Nietzel is being recognized for his valorous actions in Heistern, Germany, Nov. 18, 1944. When an enemy assault threatened to overrun his unit's position, Nietzel selflessly covered for the retreating members of his squad, expending all his ammunition and holding his post until he was killed by an enemy hand grenade. Nietzel received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, American Defense Service Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one Bronze Service Star, World War II Victory Medal, Presidential Unit Citation and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
Medal of Honor Recipient
One of the most decorated American Soldiers of World War II, Audie L. Murphy lied about his age — he was 17 at the time — to enlist in the Army in 1942. He fought in Sicily, Italy and France with the 3d Infantry Division, rising from private to staff sergeant and then earning a battlefield commission to second lieutenant. On January 26, 1945, in the Colmar Pocket in eastern France, his company held an advanced position that came under attack from six German tanks and a strong infantry force. Murphy ordered his company to take cover in the woods while he remained at his forward command post to call in artillery fire by telephone. To halt the German advance, he mounted a burning tank destroyer and opened fire on the enemy with a .50-caliber machine gun. He held this exposed position for an hour despite a severe leg wound and killed about fifty enemy soldiers. Returning to his company after running out of ammunition, he led a counterattack that drove off the remaining Germans. When asked after the war why he had taken on an entire German company by himself, he replied, “They were killing my friends.” Murphy received the Medal of Honor for his actions that day. In all, he fought in 9 major campaigns, killed more than 240 enemy troops, was wounded 3 times and earned 33 medals. After the war, he became an actor and appeared in numerous films, playing himself in To Hell and Back (1955), a movie based on his 1949 war memoir of the same name. His combat experience haunted him long after the guns had fallen silent. He publicized his longtime struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder and called on the government to come to the aid of veterans with PTSD. In 1973, two years after he died in a plane crash at the age of 45, the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans' Hospital opened in San Antonio, Texas.
One of the comanche talkers who landed in France on D-Day
Charles Chibitty was among the 17 Comanche talkers who served throughout the European Theater of World War II with the 4th Signal Company, 4th Infantry Division. “Code Talkers” is used to describe Soldiers from various American Indian tribes who communicated on radios, telephones and telegraph during World Wars I and II. They spoke in their own languages and dialects, many of which were not written down and all of which were indecipherable by enemy forces. Chibitty saw plenty of fighting during the landings at Utah Beach during the D-Day invasion in June 1944. He immediately put his skills to use, directing aircraft and naval gunfire to targets and informing other Comanche code talkers at higher headquarters of the tactical situation on the ground and relaying information back to his unit commander. In 1999, the Department of Defense recognized Chibitty, who was then 78, and the last surviving member of the Comanche code talkers. He was honored in the Hall of Heroes inside the Pentagon for his extraordinary bravery and achievements. In a formal ceremony at the Pentagon, Nov. 20, 2001, then-Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld presented Chibitty with the Knowlton Award in recognition of his significant contributions for the military intelligence efforts. Charles Chibitty, the last of the Comanche “code talkers,” passed away in Tulsa, Okla., July 20, 2005.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Maj. Charles L. Thomas was cited for the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in action on December 14, 1944, near Climbach, France. While riding in the lead vehicle of a task force organized to storm and capture the village of Climbach, France, then 1st Lt. Thomas's armored scout car was subjected to intense enemy artillery, self-propelled gun and small arms fire. Although wounded by the initial burst of hostile fire, Lt. Thomas signalled the remainder of the column to halt and, even with the severity of his wounds, assisted the crew of the wrecked car in dismounting. Upon leaving the scant protection which the vehicle afforded, Thomas was again subjected to a hail of enemy fire which inflicted multiple gunshot wounds in his chest, legs, and left arm. Despite the intense pain caused by these wounds, Thomas ordered and directed the dispersion and emplacement of two antitank guns, which in a few moments were promptly and effectively returning the enemy fire. Realizing that he could no longer remain in command of the platoon, he signalled to the platoon commander to join him. Thomas then thoroughly oriented him on enemy gun dispositions and the general situation. Only after he was certain that his junior officer was in full control of the situation did he permit himself to be evacuated. Thomas's outstanding heroism was an inspiration to his men and exemplified the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Donald K. Schwab was born Dec. 6, 1918, in Hooper, Neb. He joined the U.S. Army upon graduation from high school. Schwab distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on Sept. 17, 1944. His courage and determination resulted in the dismantling of a strong German position and he would take one prisoner of war. Schwab served with the US Army until Oct. 26, 1945. Upon exiting the service, Schwab returned to Hooper, Neb. and began a farming career. He was later employed with the postal service in Nebraska until retirement. In Hooper, Schwab was highly active in the church and community. He also enjoyed sports and played on various local softball and basketball teams. Donald Schwab died on Feb. 19, 2005, at the age of 86. Schwab received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one Silver Service Star, two Bronze Service Stars and Bronze Arrowhead Device, World War II Victory Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, French Fourragere, Honorable Service Lapel Button-WWII.
General of the Army Douglas MacArthur, born on Jan. 26, 1880, was a distinguished and influential military leader who served in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. The son of Lt. Gen. Arthur MacArthur Jr., a Civil War veteran, MacArthur graduated first in his class from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1903. His early career included service as an engineering officer in the Philippines and aide-de-camp to his father, who was then the commander of the Pacific Division of the U.S. Army. After being promoted to major, MacArthur helped form the 42d Division. When deployed to France upon the United States' entry into World War I, he served as the 42d's chief of staff. During World War I, MacArthur served with distinction as a field commander, leading raids and organizing resistance to enemy assaults. In June 1918, he was promoted to brigadier general and commanded the 84th Infantry Brigade during the Battle of Saint-Mihiel and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. His bravery earned him seven Silver Stars, two Croix de Guerre, two Distinguished Service Crosses and the Army Distinguished Service Medal. After the war, MacArthur became superintendent of West Point and later served as chief of staff of the U.S. Army. His tenure included overseeing severe budget cuts during the Great Depression. After his term as chief of staff concluded in 1935, he transferred to the Philippines to help develop the Philippine Army and retired from the Army in 1937. While serving in a civilian appointment to the Philippine military, he married Jean Marie Faircloth and welcomed a son — Arthur MacArthur IV, on Feb. 21, 1938. But in 1941, as the war with Japan was developing, he was recalled service in 1941 by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, promoted to lieutenant general, and made commander of U.S. Army Forces in the Far East. MacArthur's leadership during World War II was pivotal. Despite the fall of the Philippines, he famously vowed, "I shall return." He would organize American forces in Australia and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his defense of the Philippines. Thanks to his concept of "Triphibious Warfare," known as island hopping, he later led successful campaigns in New Guinea and eventually the Philippines. He did return to the Philippines on October 20, 1944, and was then promoted to General of the Army on Dec. 14, 1944. MacArthur accepted Japan's formal surrender aboard the USS Missouri on Sept. 2, 1945, and would serve as military governor of Japan, presiding over war crime trials, demilitarization, reconstruction and democratization. During the Korean War, MacArthur commanded United Nations forces and executed a successful counterattack at Inchon. However, his public disagreement with President Harry Truman over war strategy led to his relief from command on Apr. 10, 1951. MacArthur retired from the military in 1951 after 52 years of service. He spent his remaining years advising military and civilian leaders and raising his son. He passed away on Apr. 5, 1964, at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. His legacy endures as one of the most storied careers in Army history.
Allied Commander in World War II, 34th U.S. President
Dwight D. Eisenhower, born on Oct. 14, 1890, in Denison, Texas, and raised in Abilene, Kansas, began his military career as a cadet at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1911. As the United States entered World War I, Eisenhower was eager to enter the fight. His applications to combat units were repeatedly denied, but he was assigned to a tank battalion at Fort Meade, Maryland, where he formed a friendship with Capt. George S. Patton, Jr. Upon finally receiving mobilization orders, the armistice that ended World War I was signed. During the 1930s, as Germany's aggression rose — culminating in the invasion of Poland in 1939 — France and England declared war on Germany. In 1941, after the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese, the United States would enter the war as well. His strategic acumen was on display during World War II in developing the campaign against the Axis powers. Working with the British, he led a successful campaign in North Africa, including Operation Torch. President Roosevelt wished to award Eisenhower the Medal of Honor, but he declined, saying he was unworthy of such honor. Eisenhower would be made the Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force in December 1943.
With the Allies showing signs of success on the Eastern Front in 1943, the sights were set on an invasion and the ultimate liberation of Western Europe. Working closely with Gen. Omar Bradley, Eisenhower orchestrated the air, land and sea invasion of Normandy that took place on June 6, 1944. Known as Operation Overlord, the invasion was a success and gave the Allies a valuable foothold. In recognition of his senior position in the Allied Command, Eisenhower was promoted to General of the Army on Dec. 20, 1944. Eisenhower was known for connecting with troops, ensuring that enlisted men were given the same morale amenities as officers — earning him widespread respect among Soldiers. After the German surrender on May 8, 1945, Eisenhower was appointed the military governor of the U.S. Occupied Zone in Germany. In November 1945, he was made Chief of Staff of the Army and would serve in that position until 1948. He attempted to step back from the military and serve as president of Columbia University, but in 1950 was requested by President Truman to serve as NATO's first Supreme Allied Commander, Europe — giving him authority over all U.S. forces in the theater.
On May 31, 1952, he retired from active service and resigned his commission in July 1952. Shortly after his Army retirement, Eisenhower would announce his candidacy for president of the United States. Thanks to his popularity from leading in World War II, he was elected the 34th president of the United States, serving from 1953 to 1961. His presidency saw an armistice signed for the Korean War, the establishment of the Interstate Highway System, the admission of Alaska and Hawaii to the Union, the founding of the International Atomic Energy Agency and the creation of NASA. After his presidency, Eisenhower retired to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and continued to influence national policy until his death on Mar. 28, 1969. His legacy endures through numerous institutions and the Eisenhower Interstate System. In 2023, Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia, was renamed Fort Eisenhower in his honor.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. 1st Class Edward Allen Carter Jr. was awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in action on Mar. 23, 1945, near Speyer, Germany. When the tank on which he was riding received heavy bazooka and small arms fire, Sgt. Carter voluntarily attempted to lead a three-man group across an open field. Within a short time, two of his men were killed and the third seriously wounded. Continuing on alone, he was wounded five times and finally forced to take cover. As eight enemy riflemen attempted to capture him, Sgt. Carter killed six of them and captured the remaining two. He then crossed the field using his two prisoners to shield himself and obtained valuable information concerning the disposition of enemy troops. Sgt. Carter's extraordinary heroism was an inspiration to the officers and men of the Seventh Army Infantry Company Number 1 (Provisional) and exemplifies the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Ernest Childers, who was born in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, received the Medal of Honor for heroic action in Oliveto, Italy, in 1943 during World War II. After he and his men were pinned down by machine-gun fire, and despite having an injured foot, 2nd Lt. Childers led an attack on German snipers and machine-gun nests. After taking fire from two snipers from a nearby house, he killed both of them. He then moved behind the machine-gun nests and killed the occupants of the first one. Afterwards, he threw rocks into the second one and shot an occupant when he rose up, and his men killed the other one. Childers continued his advance toward another house and single-handedly captured an enemy mortar observer. The exceptional leadership, initiative, calmness under fire and conspicuous gallantry displayed by 2d Lt. Childers were an inspiration to his men.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Joe Gandara was born in Santa Monica, Calif., on April 25, 1924. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in between 1942-1943. Gandara is being recognized for his heroic actions on June 9, 1944, in Amfreville, France. His detachment came under devastating enemy fire from a strong German force, pinning the men to the ground for four hours. Gandara advanced voluntarily and alone toward the enemy position and destroyed three hostile machine-guns before he was fatally wounded. Gandara received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one Bronze Service Star and Bronze Arrowhead Device, Presidential Unit Citation, French Fourragere, Combat Infantryman Badge and Parachutist Badge-Basic with one Bronze Service Star.
Medal of Honor Recipient
1st Lt. John Fox was cited for the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism against an armed enemy in the vicinity of Sommocolonia, Italy, Dec. 26, 1944.
During the preceding few weeks, Fox served with the 598th Field Artillery Battalion as a forward observer. On Christmas night, enemy soldiers gradually infiltrated the town of Sommocolonia in civilian clothes, and by early morning, the town was largely in hostile hands. Being greatly outnumbered, most of the U.S. Infantry forces were forced to withdraw from the town, but Fox and some other members of his observer party voluntarily remained on the second floor of a house to direct defensive artillery fire.
At 8 a.m., Fox reported that the Germans were in the streets and attacking in strength. He then called for defensive artillery fire to slow the enemy's advance. As the Germans continued to press the attack towards the area that Fox occupied, he adjusted the artillery fire closer to his position.
Finally, he was warned that the next adjustment would bring the deadly artillery right on top of his position. After acknowledging the danger, Fox insisted that the last adjustment be fired, as this was the only way to defeat the attacking soldiers. Fox's body was later found with the bodies of approximately 100 German soldiers.
Medal of Honor Recipient
1st Lt. Garlin M. Conner, a distinguished World War II veteran, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery during combat on January 24, 1945, near Houssen, France. Born on June 2, 1919, in Clinton County, Kentucky, Conner enlisted in the Army in 1941 and served with the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. During a critical moment in the Battle of Houssen, Conner voluntarily advanced 400 yards through intense enemy fire to direct artillery support against a German assault. Despite being exposed to heavy enemy fire, he remained in a shallow ditch for three hours, coordinating artillery strikes that resulted in significant enemy casualties. His actions were pivotal in repelling the German forces, showcasing his selflessness and commitment to his fellow Soldiers. Conner's military career was marked by numerous commendations, including the Distinguished Service Cross and the Silver Star, reflecting his valor and leadership on the battlefield. After the war, he returned to Kentucky, where he led a quiet life as a farmer and actively supported disabled veterans. Conner passed away on November 5, 1998, leaving behind a legacy of heroism and dedication to duty. Conner's Medal of Honor ceremony took place on June 26, 2018, at the White House, where his widow, Pauline Conner, accepted the award on his behalf. His legacy continues to inspire, highlighting the courage and sacrifice of those who serve in the armed forces.
Five-star General of the Army
Gen. George C. Marshall, born on Dec. 31, 1880, is celebrated as a "genius of logistics" and a pivotal figure in U.S. military history. A 1901 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, Marshall excelled at the Army Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, graduating first in his class. His expertise was instrumental during World War I, where he played a key role in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive as a chief planner, successfully mobilizing and transferring 600,000 men to the front. Following World War I, Marshall served as aide-de-camp to Army Chief of Staff Gen. John J. Pershing, where he learned the importance of a trained, mobilized Army. As an instructor at the Army’s Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia, from 1927 to 1932, Marshall emphasized tactical innovativeness and operational flexibility, training 150 future World War II generals. Marshall's frankness and integrity earned him the trust of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who appointed him Army Chief of Staff on Sept. 1, 1939 — the same day Germany invaded Poland. Marshall transformed the U.S. Army from 174,000 men to 8.25 million by the end of World War II. His strategic planning was crucial in the success of the Normandy invasion, although he did not command Operation Overlord. Promoted to five-star General of the Army on Dec. 16, 1944, Marshall retired in November 1945 but continued to serve his country as Secretary of State and later Secretary of Defense. He implemented the Marshall Plan, which provided $13 billion in aid to rebuild Europe post-World War II, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953. Marshall passed away on Oct. 16, 1959, at Walter Reed Hospital. His legacy as a humble, determined and courageous leader who transformed the U.S. Army and upheld the ideals of democracy endures, earning him the title of the "last great American.
Commander of the Third and Seventh Armies during World War II
Gen. George S. Patton Jr. is a prominent figure in World War II history and American popular culture, known for his personality, religious faith and military prowess. Born in California, Patton was a West Point graduate, an Olympic athlete and a cavalry soldier. His illustrious military career began in World War I, where he led the first American tank brigade until he was wounded in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. During the interwar period, Patton returned to the horse cavalry but maintained his interest in tanks, eventually commanding the 2d Armored Division before Pearl Harbor. In World War II, he led the task force that captured Casablanca in North Africa and revitalized the II Corps after the defeat at Kasserine Pass. In Sicily, his Seventh Army demonstrated remarkable mobility, capturing Palermo and reaching Messina ahead of the British. As the decoy commander of the fictitious 1st U.S. Army Group in England, Patton successfully misled the Germans about the D-Day invasion's location. His Third Army then spearheaded the breakout and rapid advance across France in 1944. During the Battle of the Bulge, Patton's forces executed a swift 90-degree turn to strike the German southern flank, relieving Bastogne. By V-E Day, his Soldiers had advanced into Czechoslovakia. Patton's outspoken comments on denazification led to his removal from command of the Third Army and his position as military governor of Bavaria. He died in December 1945 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Patton's legacy was immortalized in the 1970 Oscar-winning film Patton, which dramatized his World War II exploits.
Congressional Gold Medal
The Ghost Army was a top-secret WWII unit made up of 1,100 service members who were carefully selected because of their civilian careers in engineering, art, costuming, film and radio expertise. Using techniques learned in the theater and motion picture industry, they used visual and audial special effects to deceive the enemy. Fashion designer Bill Blass, painter Ellsworth Kelly and photographer Art Kane were part of the Ghost Army, as were many West Point graduates and Army Specialized Training Program participants. Working quickly at night, they played the sounds of tanks over loud-speakers mounted in trucks, so it sounded like a battalion was nearby; they used inflatable tanks and vehicles that, viewed from the air by German bombers, looked like the real thing; and they outfitted would-be actors as generals, deceiving both locals and enemies.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Jose Calugas, a distinguished Medal of Honor recipient, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was born in the Philippines and became a member of the Philippine Scouts, serving in Battery B of the 1st Battalion, 88th Field Artillery, 23rd Division. His heroic actions on January 16, 1942, near Culis, Bataan Province, earned him the Medal of Honor. During a critical moment in battle, Calugas, who was serving as a mess sergeant, displayed extraordinary bravery by voluntarily crossing a heavily shelled area to reach a damaged artillery position. Despite the perilous conditions, he organized a group of volunteers to restore the gun to operational status, enabling them to return fire against the enemy. His actions not only exemplified courage but also demonstrated leadership under fire. Calugas was awarded the Medal of Honor on Apr. 30, 1945, recognizing his selfless service and commitment to his fellow soldiers. His legacy is commemorated at the Fort Sam Houston Museum in San Antonio, Texas. As a notable figure in Filipino-American history, Calugas is celebrated for his contributions to the U.S. military and his embodiment of valor and sacrifice.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Manuel Mendoza, was born in Miami, Ariz., June 15, 1922. Mendoza entered the U.S. Army at Fort MacArthur, Calif., in November 1942. He served in both WWII and Korea. Then-Staff Sgt. Manuel Mendoza is being recognized for his actions on Oct. 4, 1944, in Mt. Battaglia, Italy, where he is credited with single-handedly breaking up a German counterattack. Mendoza was nicknamed the "Arizona Kid" for his actions in combat. Following his Army career, Mendoza found employment as a foreman at one of the largest nuclear plants in the country. He passed away at age 79. Mendoza received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, World War II Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with five Bronze Service Stars, Presidential Unit Citation with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Combat Infantryman Badge (Second Award), Honorable Service Lapel Button-World War II, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea Korean War Service Medal, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Italian Cross for Merit of War Unit Citation.
Congressional Gold Medal
The idea to use Native American languages as code began during World War I, when Soldiers who spoke Navajo and other languages were used to send messages that could not be deciphered by the Germans. Later, during World War II, Native American language speakers were again used in the Pacific Theater, as well as in Europe and North Africa. In 2000, the Navajo Code Talkers received the Congressional Gold Medal for developing and using an unbreakable code during World War II, and in 2008, the Native American Code Talkers received the medal for developing secret means of communication based on native languages that were critical to winning the war.
Advanced Military Intelligence during WWII
Oscar Koch entered the Army in 1915 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and was later commissioned as an artillery officer on April 15, 1918. Koch did more for the development of combat intelligence than any other American intelligence officer, before or during World War II. While a colonel serving as G-2 in Gen. George Patton's Third Army, Koch introduced the concept of fully integrated, all-source intelligence techniques that helped the Third Army's commanders make quicker combat decisions than ever before possible and assisted staff planning at all levels with unprecedented confidence. He continued to develop new techniques and procedures and tirelessly improved upon the old ones throughout the war. Under the guidance of Koch, intelligence training was instituted in all Third Army units. The training stressed enemy tactics and order of battle organization. Commanders and staff at all levels were oriented and trained in the proper use of intelligence specialists. Koch's G-2 section continuously conducted intelligence preparation of the battlefield. They studied terrain, enemy disposition, capabilities and weather. They war-gamed plans at least two operations in advance of the one being executed. He, more than any modern Soldier, successfully demonstrated the proper place of intelligence in the decision-making process. Koch also developed a G-2 planning cycle, which detailed all activities, duties and responsibilities of his section. It showed in detail how to plan all intelligence activities in joint operations. It was a blueprint for combat intelligence planning, adaptable to units of almost any size. It set day-to-day goals during a prescribed period before a major offensive. It also provided a checklist by which the intelligence staff could measure its progress.
After World War II, Koch organized and commanded the United States Army's first-ever peacetime intelligence school at Fort Riley, Kansas. His book, G-2: Intelligence for Patton, may have been his greatest contribution to the Military Intelligence Corps. More than simply a memoir, the book was a tutorial for successful intelligence officers. Koch retired in 1954. His awards and decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the World War I Victory Medal with clasp, the World War II Victory Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal–American Defense, Occupation of Germany Medal, the Legion of Honour (France), the Croix de Guerre with gold star (France), the Croix de Guerre (Belgium), the Order of the Oak Wreath (Luxembourg), the Order of Leopold (Belgium), Order of the Fatherland–Russia; the United Nations Korea Medal, and the Korean Service Medal. Koch passed away in 1970, was posthumously inducted into the Military Intelligence Hall of Fame in 1993 and was memorialized the same year when Koch Barracks at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, was dedicated in his name.
First director of the Women's Army Corps and the first Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare
Oveta Culp Hobby was born in Killeen, Texas, in 1904. After attending Baylor Female College, she served as legislative parliamentarian for the Texas House of Representatives at the age of 21, and later worked as a reporter at The Houston Post. During World War II she led the War Department's Women's Interest Section, and in 1942 she became the director of the Wome's Auxiliary Army Corps. In 1943, the organization was renamed the Women's Army Corps, and she was promoted to the rank of colonel. For her efforts, she earned the Distinguished Service Medal.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Pedro Cano was born in La Morita, Mexico, June 19, 1920. He joined the U.S. Army in 1944, during World War II. Cano is being recognized for his valorous actions in the months-long battle of Hurtgen Forest. He was advancing with his company near Schevenhütte, Germany, in December 1944, when the unit met heavy enemy resistance. During a two-day period, Cano eliminated nearly 30 enemy troops. Sometime later, while on patrol, Cano and his platoon were surprised by German soldiers that caused numerous casualties within their platoon. Cano lay motionless on the ground until the assailants closed in, then tossed a grenade into their midst, wounding or killing all of them. It was in this engagement, or shortly thereafter, that Cano sustained serious injuries. He was returned to the States and placed in a Veterans hospital in Waco, Texas. After which, he returned home to his wife and daughter in Edinburg. Cano would pass away six years later. Posthumously, Cano received the Texas Legislature Medal of Honor. A school in Edinburg, Texas is named after Cano. Cano received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one Silver Service Star and Bronze Arrowhead, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupations Medal with Germany Clasp, Presidential Unit Citations, Belgian Fourragere, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Honorable Service Lapel Button-World War II.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Richard Ira Bong was born on Sept. 24, 1920, in Wisconsin. He earned his pilot's license while as a college student and joined the Army Air Corps as a second lieutenant in January 1942. He initially served as a flight instructor before being deployed to the Pacific Theater. His exceptional flying skills and daring tactics quickly earned him a reputation among his peers and superiors. Known as the "Ace of Aces," Maj. Bong engaged in numerous aerial battles and was the top American flying ace during World War II, credited with downing 40 enemy aircraft. In December 1944, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and service, which included unusually hazardous sorties over Balikpapan, Borneo and the Philippines. Tragically, he died in a plane crash while test-flying a P-80 jet fighter on Aug. 6, 1945, just days before the end of the war. Bong's legacy as a skilled pilot and courageous leader continues to be honored in military history.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Robert D. Booker was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor and Purple Heart in 1944 for his heroic action during World War II. A Nebraska native, Booker joined the Army in June 1942. After basic training, he supported the Allied North African Campaign in Tunisia with the 34th Infantry Division. On April 9, 1943, despite hostile enemy fire, Pvt. Booker crossed nearly 200 yards of open field while carrying a machine gun and a box of ammunition. Once he reached his intended location, Booker set up his machine gun and began firing on enemy targets. After being shot and injured, he continued firing and eventually destroyed an enemy machine gun. As he turned to fire on a second enemy machine gun, he was shot again, this time fatally. Before he died, however, Booker remained restrained and unfazed as he continued to encourage his squad and to help direct their fire.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sgt. Salvador Lara was from Riverside, Calif. He joined the U.S. Army and served during World War II. Then-Pfc. Salvador Lara is being recognized for his valorous actions in Aprilia, Italy, May 27-28, 1944. During the fight, May 27, he aggressively led his rifle squad in neutralizing multiple enemy strong points and inflicting large numbers of casualties on the enemy. The next morning, as his company resumed the attack, Lara sustained a severe leg wound, but did not stop to receive first aid. Lara continued his exemplary performance until he captured his objective. Lara received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, World War II Victory Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, and Combat Infantryman Badge and the Honorable Service Lapel Button-World War II.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Brig. Gen. Theodore Roosevelt III, commonly known as Theodore Roosevelt Jr., was a distinguished veteran of both World War I and II and a Medal of Honor recipient. Born on Sept. 13, 1887, in New York, he was the eldest son of President Theodore Roosevelt. He graduated from Harvard University in 1909 and married Eleanor Butler Alexander in 1910, with whom he had four children.
Roosevelt volunteered for service in World War I, commanding the 26th Regiment, 1st Division in France. He was wounded at the Battle of Soissons and later became a founding member of the American Legion. After the war, he served in the Army Reserves and pursued a political career, holding positions such as assistant secretary of the Navy, governor of Puerto Rico and governor-general of the Philippines.
At the outbreak of World War II, Roosevelt returned to active duty, serving under Gen. George S. Patton in Africa and later in Europe. As the assistant division commander of the 4th Infantry Division, he was the only U.S. general to land with the first wave of troops on D-Day, June 6, 1944, at Utah Beach. Despite his heart condition and arthritis, Roosevelt's leadership was pivotal, and he was recommended for the Distinguished Service Cross, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor — making Roosevelt and his father one of only two parent-child pairs to both receive the award.
Roosevelt died of a heart attack on July 12, 1944, in France. His widow accepted the Medal of Honor on his behalf. He is interred with his brother Quentin at the American Cemetery in Normandy, France. Roosevelt's legacy of service continues through the Roosevelt family and their contributions to the nation.
Congressional Gold Medal
The Tuskegee Airmen were World War II pilots trained at the Tuskegee Institute, a black college founded in Alabama in 1881 by Booker T. Washington. Famous units included the 99th Pursuit Squadron and the 332nd Fighter Group. In 1942, the 99th Pursuit Squadron was sent to North Africa. In 1943, they fought against the German Luftwaffe at the Italian island of Pantelleria, and on Jan. 27, 1944, they shot down 10 German airplanes that were attempting to bomb allied ships near Anzio, Italy. Altogether, they flew 311 missions, shot down 112 enemy aircraft, destroyed 150 aircraft on the ground and knocked out 600 railroad cars and 40 boats. In 2007, the surviving Tuskegee Airmen were presented the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Van Barfoot was born on June 15, 1919, in Mississippi. In 1940, after reading the news, he predicted that the U.S. would soon be at war and he joined the Army in March. In 1943, he deployed to Europe with the 3rd Battalion, 157th Infantry, 45th Infantry Division. On May 23, 1944, Tech-Sgt. Barfoot's platoon became heavily engaged during an assault against well-entrenched forces near Carano, Italy. Barfoot crawled to the proximity of one machine-gun nest and hit it with a hand grenade, killing two and wounding three Germans. He then continued to another machine-gun emplacement and shot two Germans and captured three others. After that, members of a third machine-gun crew surrendered to Barfoot. Leaving the prisoners with his support squad, he proceeded to capture more prisoners, bringing his total count to 17.
Later that day, the enemy launched a fierce armored counterattack. Securing a bazooka, Barfoot took up an exposed position directly in front of three advancing Mark VI tanks. From a distance of 75 yards, his first shot destroyed the track of the leading tank, effectively disabling it, while the other two changed direction toward the flank. As the crew of the disabled tank dismounted, Barfoot killed three of them with his Tommy Gun. He then continued into enemy terrain and destroyed a recently abandoned German fieldpiece with a demolition charge placed in the breech. While returning to his platoon's position, though greatly fatigued, Barfoot assisted two of his seriously wounded men 1,700 yards to a position of safety. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor Recipient
William F. Leonard hailed from Lockport, N.Y., and was born Aug. 9, 1913. Then-Pfc. William F. Leonard is being recognized for his valorous actions while serving as a squad leader with Company C, 30th Infantry, on Nov. 7, 1944, near St. Die, France. Leonard's platoon was reduced to eight men by blistering artillery, mortar, machine-gun, and rifle power. Leonard led the survivors in an assault over a tree-and-shrub-covered hill, continuously swept by automatic fire. Killing two snipers at ranges of 50 and 75 yards, he disregarded bullets that pierced his back to engage and destroy a machine gun with rifle grenades, killing its two-man crew. Stunned by an exploding bazooka shell, he continued his relentless advance to knock out a second machine gun and capture the roadblock objective. Leonard returned from his service and worked in the automotive industry, as a butcher, and finally retired from a radiator company. He passed away five days before his 72nd birthday as he sat in the backyard listening to a New York Yankees game on the radio. Leonard received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; the Bronze Star Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one Bronze Service Star, the World War II Victory Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Honorable Service Lapel Button-World War II.
First nurse in American military history to attain a general officer rank
Anna Mae Hays joined the Army Nurse Corps in 1942, shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. In January 1943, she deployed with the 20th General Hospital to India, where she provided care for Allied and American Soldiers. After the war, she remained in the Army as a first lieutenant and deployed to Korea in 1950. After the Korean War, she continued to work as an Army nurse in Washington, D.C., and in 1967 became chief of the Army Nurse Corps as a colonel. She was responsible for several improvements and reforms, and in 1970 became the first female to be promoted to brigadier general.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Ardie R. Copas was from Fort Pierce, Fla., and joined the U.S. Army, June 18, 1969. Then-Spc. 4 Ardie R. Copas distinguished himself on May 12, 1970, while serving as a machine-gunner near Ph Romeas Hek, Cambodia. When his convoy was ambushed, Copas repelled the enemy under heavy fire, holding his post while his wounded comrades were evacuated. Copas was killed in action. Copas received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Marksmanship Badge with Auto Rifle Bar, Republic of Vietnam Military Merit Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Device, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Unit Citation, First Class.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Command Sgt. Maj. Bennie G. Adkins, hailing from Opelika, Alabama, was born in February 1934 and enlisted in the U.S. Army in December 1956. He served with distinction in the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, particularly noted for his actions during the Vietnam War. From Mar. 9-12, 1966, then-Sergeant First Class Adkins displayed extraordinary heroism at Camp A Shau, Republic of Vietnam. Despite being wounded, he manned a mortar position under intense enemy fire, rescued fellow soldiers, and led a small group in evading enemy forces for 48 hours. His actions resulted in the estimated elimination of 135-175 enemy combatants. Adkins' valor earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Barack Obama on September 15, 2014. President Obama remarked, “Sgt. 1st Class Adkins' contribution to the defense of the camp and subsequent recovery of the survivors was far above and beyond that called for by duty.” After retiring from the Army in 1978, Adkins pursued higher education, earning multiple degrees from Troy State University. He also established a successful accounting firm and taught at local colleges. His numerous awards include the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and Purple Heart with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters.
Congressional Gold Medal
Borinqueneers, the nickname of the 65th Infantry, served in World War I, II and Korea. They participated in some of the fiercest battles from 1950-1952. They participated in Operation Thunderbolt and Operation Exploitation. They were ordered to seize three Chinese-held hills. During the three-day assault, two battalions fixed bayonets and charged the enemy, forcing the communist soldiers to flee. It was the last U.S. Army battalion-sized bayonet charge in history.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Lieutenant Colonel Bruce P. Crandall, born on Feb. 17, 1933, in Olympia, Washington, is a distinguished Master Army Aviator known for his valor during the Vietnam War. Crandall, who was drafted into the Army in 1953, led over 900 combat missions during his two tours in Vietnam. He commanded A Company, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), and played a pivotal role in the Battle of Ia Drang. On November 14, 1965, Crandall led a flight of helicopters to Landing Zone X-Ray in the Ia Drang Valley, where he and his wingman, Maj. Ed Freeman evacuated approximately 70 wounded Soldiers under intense enemy fire. Despite the danger, Crandall made 14 landings, delivering essential ammunition and supplies, boosting the morale of the besieged troops. His actions were instrumental in the survival of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment. Crandall's bravery earned him numerous awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart. In 2007, President George W. Bush awarded him the Medal of Honor in a White House ceremony. Crandall's legacy is celebrated in the book and film "We Were Soldiers," which chronicles the Battle of Ia Drang.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Pvt. Bruno R. Orig, born in January 1930 in Honolulu, Hawaii, was one of eight children raised by his mother, Gregoria, father, Hilario, and stepfather, Leon Omboy, all of whom emigrated from the Philippines. Following his graduation from Farrington High School in 1949, Orig enlisted in the U.S. Army in August 1950. He was trained as a light weapons infantryman and assigned to Company G, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. Deployed to Korea in 1950, Orig demonstrated extraordinary heroism on Feb. 15, 1951, near Chipyong-ni. During a fierce enemy attack, he selflessly administered first aid to wounded comrades and moved them to safety. While returning from one of the trips to move the wounded, he noticed that a machine-gun crew was incapacitated — Orig volunteered to man the weapon without hesitation. His effective fire allowed a friendly platoon to withdraw without casualties. Orig continued to inflict heavy casualties on the enemy until his position was overrun. When the ground was later recaptured, Orig was found dead beside his weapon, surrounded by enemy casualties. Orig's valor earned him the Medal of Honor, posthumously awarded by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on Jan. 3, 2025. The medal was presented to his sister, Loretta, the last surviving member of the Orig/Omboy family. Orig's bravery is an exemplary entry in his family's rich history of service — his father, stepfather, older brother and younger brother all served in the U.S. Army.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Candelario Garcia was born in Corsicana, Texas, Feb. 26, 1944. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on May 28, 1963. Garcia distinguished himself on Dec. 8, 1968, as a team leader during a reconnaissance-in-force mission near Lai Khe, Vietnam. Garcia destroyed two enemy machine-gun positions in an attempt to aid casualties who were in the open and under fire. Garcia then rejoined his company in a successful assault on the remaining enemy positions. Garcia passed away on Jan. 10, 2013. Garcia received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Silver Service Stars and one Bronze Service Star, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Marksmanship Badge with Rifle, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Silver Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citations with Palm Device and Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Unit Citation, First Class.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Pfc. Charles R. Johnson, born on Aug. 11, 1932, in Millbrook, New York, was a talented athlete and musician. He attended Millbrook High School and later Arlington High School, where he was elected class vice president and co-captain of the basketball team. Johnson briefly attended Howard University before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1952. Serving with Company B, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Johnson distinguished himself during the Korean War. On June 11-12, 1953, at Outpost Harry, Chinese forces launched a massive nighttime assault. Johnson, serving as a Browning automatic rifleman, fighting valiantly. Despite being wounded, he administered first aid to injured comrades and dragged his high school friend, Pvt. Don Dingee, to safety. Recognizing the dire situation, Johnson placed himself between the enemy and his injured comrades, holding off the enemy forces and saving the lives of as many as 10 Soldiers. Johnson's bravery earned him the Silver Star Medal posthumously in 2010. He was further honored in 2014 when the Johnson Fitness Center at Fort Stewart, Georgia, was named after him. Arlington High School also commemorates his legacy with Charlie Johnson Hall — featuring a statue of him pulling Dingee to safety — and the Charlie Johnson Legacy Project, which awards scholarships to students who embody his qualities. On January 3, 2025, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. posthumously awarded Johnson the Medal of Honor, recognizing his extraordinary heroism and selflessness. The medal was presented to Johnson's sister, Juanita Mendez.
Medal of Honor recipient
Lt. Col. Charles S. Kettles, born on Jan. 9, 1930, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, was drafted into the U.S. Army on Oct. 18, 1951. After attending Officer Candidate School, he earned his commission as an armor officer in the Army Reserve on February 28, 1953. Kettles served in Korea, Japan and Thailand. He returned to America in 1956 and established a car dealership with his brother and continued with the Army Reserve. He answered the call to serve again in 1963, volunteering for active duty and attending the Helicopter Transition Training in 1964. He deployed to France to train on the UH-1D "Huey" helicopter and later to Vietnam, where he displayed extraordinary heroism. On May 15, 1967, then-Maj. Kettles led a flight of UH-1D helicopters to evacuate wounded personnel and deliver reinforcements to the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, who were ambushed in the Song Tra Cau riverbed, Republic of Vietnam. Despite intense enemy fire, Kettles made multiple trips to the landing zone, ensuring all reinforcements and wounded were evacuated. When informed that eight soldiers remained, Kettles returned alone, under heavy fire, to rescue them. His actions saved 44 soldiers and four crew members. Kettles' valor earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Barack Obama on July 18, 2016. President Obama remarked, "To the dozens of American Soldiers that he saved in Vietnam, half a century ago, Chuck is the reason they lived and came home and had children and grandchildren." Kettles' awards include the Distinguished Service Cross, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal with one bronze oak leaf cluster, and Air Medal with Numeral “27”. He retired from the Army in 1978 and later developed the Aviation Management Program at Eastern Michigan University. Kettles died on January 21, 2019.
Medal of Honor Recipient
In June 1965, 1st Lt. Charles Williams was serving in Detachment A, 5th Special Forces Group, 1st Special Forces when hostile forces attacked his camp. In a nightmarish fight that lasted 14 hours, he was wounded multiple times but still directed defenses using flares as reference points to air strikes. He inspired his team to hold out against the insurgent forces. As the Vietcong continued to besiege the stronghold, firing a machine gun directly south of the building, Williams and a volunteer took a rocket launcher and worked their way across open terrain. The sight was faulty on the rocket launcher, but they hit the machine gun and took it out of action. Both men were wounded on the way back, but Williams continued to direct the air strikes and evacuated his team. An inspiration to his men, he was undaunted by the assault.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Before entering the Army, Clarence Eugene Sasser was a chemistry major at the University of Houston. He came from a poor farming family and paying for college was a challenge, so he decided to pick up more work hours and go part-time at school, making him eligible for the draft. At 19 years old, the Army trained him to be a medic. In January 1968, then-Pfc. Clarence Eugene Sasser was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division. Serving as a medical aidman on a reconnaissance force operation during an air assault in the Mekong Delta, his unit took heavy fire from a well-fortified enemy position. In just 30 minutes, they had 30 casualties. He recalled the attack and said, “We go in, and the helicopter started taking fire. One of the helicopters got hit and went down. Fire was all around us, with the helicopter down, there wasn't any choice, we had to go in.” Without hesitation, Sasser ran across an open rice paddy through a hail of fire to assist the wounded. After helping one man to safety, he was painfully wounded in the shoulder by fragments of an exploding rocket. Refusing medical attention, he ran through a barrage of fire to aid casualties of the initial attack and, after giving them urgently needed treatment, continued to search for other wounded. He said, “I learned early on the best way to get around that day was to simply grab the rice and slide yourself along, you can move better like that, and if you stand up you're dead, especially if they see your bag, they know you're a medic and if they killed a medic, probably a lot of people would die. That was the rationale.” Despite two additional wounds immobilizing his legs, he dragged himself through the mud toward another Soldier 100 meters away. Although in agonizing pain and faint from loss of blood, Sasser reached the man, treated him, and proceeded on to encourage another group of Soldiers to crawl 200 meters to relative safety. There, he attended to their wounds for five hours until they were evacuated. After a harrowing night, they were evacuated early in the morning. Sasser's extraordinary heroism is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the U.S. Army.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sgt. Clifford Chester Sims distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader with Company D. After encountering strong enemy defensive fire on Feb. 21, 1968, during the Vietnam War, Sims led his squad in a furious attack. His skillful leadership provided the platoon with freedom of movement and enabled it to regain the initiative. Sims was then ordered to move his squad to a position where he could provide covering fire for the company command group and to link up with the 3rd Platoon, which was under heavy enemy pressure. After moving no more than 30 meters, Sims noticed that the ammunition stock was on fire. He took immediate action to move his squad from this position. In the process of moving, two members of his squad were injured, but Sims' prompt actions undoubtedly prevented more serious casualties from occurring. While continuing through the woods amidst heavy enemy fire, Sims and his squad heard the unmistakable noise of a concealed booby trap being triggered immediately to their front. Sims warned his comrades of the danger and unhesitatingly hurled himself upon the device as it exploded, taking the full impact of the blast. In so protecting his fellow Soldiers, he willingly sacrificed his life. Sims was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously. His extraordinary heroism at the cost of his life is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Demensio Rivera was born in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, on Apr. 29, 1933. He joined the U.S. Army, Sept. 26, 1950, in New York. Then-Pvt. Demensio Rivera is being recognized for his actions at Changyongni, Korea, May 22-23, 1951. When the outpost area occupied by his platoon was assaulted during the night, Rivera, an automatic rifleman, held his forward position tenaciously, although exposed to very heavy fire. When his rifle became inoperative, Rivera employed his pistol and grenades, and eventually fought the enemy hand-to-hand and forced them back. Rivera received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Combat Infantryman Badge, Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Spc. 5 Dennis M. Fujii, born in Hanapepe, Kauai, Hawaii, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1968. During his first tour of Vietnam in 1968, he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division as an assistant machine gunner. He would deploy to Vietnam again in 1970, serving as a crew chief with the 237th Medical Detachment, 61st Medical Battalion, 67th Medical Group. On Feb. 18, 1971, during a mission to evacuate wounded South Vietnamese military personnel, Fujii's UH-1 helicopter was hit by enemy fire and crashed. A second helicopter was able to land and load Fujii’s passengers, but enemy fire was trained on Fujii. Despite his injuries, Fujii remained on the ground to avoid endangering the lives of others. He secured a radio and informed aviators that the landing zone was too dangerous for further evacuation attempts. Fujii treated wounded South Vietnamese and called in air strikes to repel enemy attacks for over 17 hours, repeatedly exposing himself to hostile fire. On Feb. 20, Fujii was evacuated, but his helicopter was forced to crash land at another base. He continued to assist the allied forces until another helicopter arrived and he was finally evacuated on Feb. 22. Fujii's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty earned him the Distinguished Service Cross, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor. Fujii would transfer to the Hawaii Army National Guard and the Pacific Army Reserve, and after leaving the service, worked as a utilities and logistics technician for Global Associates at the Johnston Atoll Wildlife Refuge Island in the North Pacific. Fujii was inducted into the Army Aviation Museum's Hall of Fame at Fort Rucker, Alabama, and into the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii's Gallery of Heroes. On July 5, 2022, President Joe Biden awarded the Medal of Honor to Fujii in a ceremony at the White House. President Biden praised Fujii's actions, stating, "On the radio, his fellow Americans knew him as 'Papa Whiskey' — clear-eyed, level-headed Soldier, directing air strikes so precisely they were able to drive back the forces that had come within 15 to 20 meters of a friendly camp."
Medal of Honor Recipient
Spc. 4 Donald P. Sloat, born in February 1949 in Coweta, Oklahoma, enlisted in the U.S. Army in March 1969. He served as an infantry machine gunner with 3rd Platoon, Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, 196th Light Infantry Brigade, Americal Division, during the Vietnam War. On Jan. 17, 1970, while on patrol in the Que Son Valley, Sloat's squad encountered a booby-trap grenade. When the grenade rolled towards him, Sloat initially attempted to throw it away but realized detonation was imminent. He selflessly drew the grenade to his body, absorbing the blast and saving the lives of his fellow Soldiers. His actions exemplified the highest traditions of military service and earned him the Medal of Honor posthumously. President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to Sloat's brother, Dr. Bill Sloat, in a ceremony at the White House on Sept. 15, 2014. Former Pfc. DeWayne C. Lewis Jr., who was on patrol with Sloat, highlighted Sloat's sacrifice, stating, "His act saved my life." Sloat's decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device, Purple Heart and the Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device, among others.
Medal of Honor Recipient
On the morning of Jan. 30, 1968, communist forces attacked eight major South Vietnamese cities. The next day, fighting erupted almost everywhere across South Vietnam as the communists attacked more than 60 towns, 36 provincial capitals, and five of South Vietnam’s autonomous cities, including the capital city, Saigon. Chau City, capital of Chau Doc Province, was attacked by two Viet Cong battalions. Then-Staff Sgt. Drew Dix, along with the South Vietnamese patrol he was advising, were called on to assist in the defense of the beleaguered city. Dix organized and led two separate relief forces that successfully rescued a total of nine trapped civilians. He subsequently assaulted an enemy-held building, killing six Viet Cong and rescuing two Filipinos. The following day, he assembled a 20-man force and cleared the Viet Cong out of a hotel, theater, and other adjacent buildings within the city. In the process, he captured 20 prisoners, including a high-ranking Viet Cong official. He then cleared enemy troops from the Deputy Province Chief’s residence, rescuing that official’s wife and children in the process. Dix would become one of four Green Berets to receive the Medal of Honor for actions during the Tet Offensive period.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Spc. Five Dwight W. Birdwell, born on January 19, 1948, in Amarillo, Texas, grew up in the predominantly Cherokee Indian community of Bell in Adair County, Oklahoma. A citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Birdwell enlisted in the U.S. Army on May 24, 1966, and served as an armored crewman with Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. On Jan. 31, 1968, during the Tet Offensive, Birdwell's unit was the first to respond to an attack on Tan Son Nhut Air Base. When his tank commander was seriously wounded, Birdwell took command, placing intense fire on the enemy until his ammunition was expended. He then retrieved an M-60 machine gun and continued firing until the weapon was damaged, and he was wounded. Despite his injuries, Birdwell ran through enemy fire to gather more ammunition for his men. For his heroism, he was awarded his first Silver Star. On July 4, 1968, Birdwell again risked his life to rescue wounded Americans stranded in an enemy-occupied village. He exposed himself to heavy enemy fire while loading the wounded onto a damaged personnel carrier and evacuating them to safety. He then returned to rescue more Americans, earning his second Silver Star. Birdwell returned home in December 1968 and pursued higher education, graduating from the University of Oklahoma School of Law in 1976. He served on the Cherokee Nation Judicial Appeals Tribunal and is now a practicing attorney in Oklahoma City. Birdwell has been married for 53 years and has two children and two grandchildren. For his extraordinary heroism on Jan. 31, 1968, Birdwell was awarded the Medal of Honor, presented by President Joe Biden on July 5, 2022. President Biden noted Birdwell's commitment, stating, "He provided battlefield updates to his commanders until the enemy shot the communication system right off of his helmet."
Medal of Honor Recipient
Eduardo Gomez was born in Los Angeles, Calif., Oct. 28, 1919. Gomez enlisted in the U.S. Army, Feb. 9, 1949. Then-Sgt. Eduardo Gomez distinguished himself by defending his company as it was ruthlessly attacked by a hostile force. Notably, Gomez maneuvered across open ground to successfully assault a manned tank. Wounded during his retreat from the tank, Gomez refused medical attention, instead manning his post and firing upon the enemy until his company formed a defensive perimeter. Gomez received the Medal of Honor, Mar. 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster and "V" Device, Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one Bronze Service Star, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal with Germany Clasp, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Honorable Service Lapel Button-WWII, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation and Gold Bravery Medal of Greece Unit Citation.
Chief of the National Guard Bureau
Edward Baca, born in July 1938 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, joined the Army National Guard on Nov. 19, 1956, following his high school graduation. Initially assigned to Battery C, 726th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion, Baca served in various roles, including anti-aircraft gunner and supply sergeant. He graduated from Officer Candidate School in 1962, receiving a commission as a second lieutenant and becoming a platoon leader for the 3631st Maintenance Company. Baca volunteered for active duty during the Vietnam War, deploying to South Vietnam. Upon his return in 1966, he rejoined the New Mexico National Guard. In 1977, Baca became the state military personnel officer and was assigned the state assistant, G-1. A short time later, he was appointed the adjutant general, New Mexico National Guard. Commanding both the Army and Air National Guard of New Mexico, Baca led the state guard to a position of national prominence as a vital component of the "total force." Baca spearheaded a nationwide National Guard force modernization effort and directed the first fielding of the Chaparral and Hawk missile battalions in the U.S. Army Reserve. He also established a model drug demand reduction program and strengthened the Guard's support in counterdrug efforts. In October 1994, Baca became chief of the National Guard Bureau, overseeing nearly 500,000 Army and Air National Guard members. He retired in 1998 as a lieutenant general after 41 years of service. His numerous awards included the Legion of Merit, the Department of Defense Distinguished Service Medal, and multiple Distinguished Service Medals. Edward Baca passed away in September 2020 after a long battle with leukemia. His legacy of service and leadership continues to inspire.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sgt. Edward Kaneshiro, born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1928, was the eighth of 16 siblings. He grew up working on the family farm and graduated from Leilehua High School in 1946. Kaneshiro enlisted in the U.S. Army as an infantryman on Apr. 2, 1959, and served in various non-combat overseas tours before being assigned to Troop C, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. He deployed to Vietnam as a squad leader in 1966. On December 1, 1966, during a mission in Kim Son Valley, Vietnam, Kaneshiro's unit came under heavy fire from North Vietnamese troops in a fortified village. Serving as an infantry squad leader during an ambush by a vastly superior force, Kaneshiro deftly maneuvered his men to cover out of harm's way. Demonstrating extraordinary bravery, Kaneshiro crawled forward and attacked enemy groupings inside a bunker and along a trench with grenades and his M16 rifle. His actions saved the lives of U.S. Soldiers and ensured the successful withdrawal from the village. Kaneshiro was later killed in action on March 6, 1967. On July 25, 1963, Kaneshiro was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his valor, which was later recommended to be upgraded to the Medal of Honor in 2020. On July 5, 2022, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor to Kaneshiro, accepted by his son, John Kaneshiro, at the White House.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Army Platoon Sgt. Elmelindo R. Smith served in the 1st Platoon, Company C, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor Feb. 16, 1967, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. During a reconnaissance patrol, his platoon was suddenly engaged by intense machine-gun fire. With complete disregard for his safety, Smith moved through the deadly fire along the defensive line, positioning soldiers, distributing ammunition and encouraging his men to repel the enemy attack. Repeatedly struck by enemy fire, Smith perished. The valorous acts and heroic leadership of this outstanding Soldier inspired those remaining members of his platoon to beat back the enemy assaults.
Medal of Honor recipient
Chaplain (Capt.) Emil J. Kapaun, born in 1916 in Pilsen, Kansas, served with distinction in the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps. He was assigned to Headquarters Company, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. Kapaun's military career included deployments during World War II and the Korean War. During the Battle of Unsan on November 1, 1950, enemy forces surrounded Kapaun's unit. He was captured by North Korean and Chinese soldiers, but was later able to escape when his captors were shot by allied soldiers. Under intense enemy fire, he moved fearlessly to provide comfort and aid to wounded Soldiers, often dragging them to safety or shielding them with shallow trenches. Despite opportunities to escape, he chose to stay behind with the wounded and was subsequently captured by Chinese forces. In the prison camps, Kapaun continued his ministry, tending to the sick, foraging for food and conducting spiritual services, all while risking severe punishment. Kapaun's selfless actions and unwavering faith inspired his fellow prisoners and saved countless lives. He succumbed to the harsh conditions of captivity on May 23, 1951. For his gallantry, Chaplain Kapaun was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His other decorations include the Distinguished Service Cross, Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device, and the Legion of Merit. In a White House ceremony, President Barack Obama presented the Medal of Honor to Kapaun's next of kin, honoring his legacy of courage, faith, and dedication to his fellow Soldiers. At his Hall of Heroes induction ceremony, the 38th Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. Raymond Odierno, remarked that to Chaplain Kapaun, "his fellow Soldiers, for whom he gave his last dying breath, meant more to him than life.
Medal of Honor Recipient
On the evening of Feb. 6, 1968, the Northern Vietnamese Army launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Special Forces camp at Lang Vei, in the northwest corner of South Vietnam. With the camp’s surviving Special Forces advisors trapped in a bunker, Sgt. 1st Class Eugene Ashley, Jr., organized a rescue effort, consisting mainly of friendly Laotians. Ashley led his ad hoc assault force on a total of five assaults against the enemy, continuously exposing himself to withering small arms fire, which left him seriously wounded. During his fifth and final assault, he adjusted airstrikes nearly on top of his assault element, forcing the enemy to withdraw and resulting in friendly control of the summit of the hill. Following this assault, he lost consciousness and was carried from the summit by his comrades, only to suffer a fatal wound from an enemy artillery round. Ashley’s valiant efforts, at the cost of his own life, made it possible for the survivors of Camp Lang Vei to eventually escape to freedom. Ashley would become one of four Green Berets to receive the Medal of Honor for actions during the Tet Offensive period.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Felix M. Conde-Falcon was born in Juncos, Puerto Rico, Feb. 24, 1938, and raised in Chicago, Ill. He volunteered to join the U.S. Army in April 1963. Conde-Falcon distinguished himself on April 4, 1969, while serving as a platoon leader during a sweep operation in the vicinity of Ap Tan Hoa, Vietnam, April 4, 1969. Conde-Falcon was killed in action that day after destroying multiple enemy bunkers and demonstrating extraordinary leadership under fire. He left behind a wife and two children. Conde-Falcon received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge, Sharpshooter Marksmanship Badge with Auto Rifle Bar, Expert Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, Marksman Badge with Pistol Bar, Drill Sergeant Identification Badge, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Republic of Vietnam Merit Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Unit Citation, First Class with Oak Leaf Cluster.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Cpl. Fred B. McGee, born on May 30, 1930, in Steubenville, Ohio, was the sixth of eight children. Raised in Bloomingdale, Ohio, McGee enlisted in the U.S. Army in May 1951. He served as an infantryman with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division during the Korean War. On June 16, 1952, near Tang-Wan-Ni, Korea, McGee displayed extraordinary heroism. As a machine gunner, he provided critical supporting fire from an exposed position despite intense enemy fire. When his squad leader and several members were wounded, McGee assumed command, moving the squad forward to neutralize an enemy machine gun. After his machine gunner was mortally wounded, McGee took over the gun, ordered his squad to withdraw, and remained behind to evacuate the wounded. Despite being wounded himself, he exposed himself to enemy fire to aid a wounded comrade, moving him to safety. McGee's life of service extended beyond the military. He was an accomplished baseball player, coach and community leader. He passed away in January 2020, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, dedication and selfless service. McGee's actions ultimately earned him the Medal of Honor, posthumously awarded by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on Jan. 3, 2025. The medal was presented to his daughter, Victoria Secrest. McGee's other accolades include induction into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor and the Purple Heart Hall of Fame. He was also honored with the Above & Beyond Citizen Honors Award by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society in 2009.
Medal of Honor Recipient
As the commander of a resupply helicopter, Chief Warrant Officer Frederick Edgar Ferguson responded to an emergency call from wounded passengers and crewmen of a downed helicopter under heavy attack within the enemy-controlled city of Hue during the Vietnam War. Despite warnings from all aircraft to avoid the area due to intense antiaircraft fire, he volunteered to attempt the evacuation. CWO Ferguson executed a low-level flight at maximum airspeed along the Perfume River toward a small, isolated South Vietnamese Army compound where the crash survivors had taken refuge. Demonstrating superior flying skill and tenacity, he maintained his course amidst intense, short-range fire from enemy-occupied buildings and boats. He landed his aircraft in an extremely confined area under a blinding dust cloud and heavy mortar and small-arms fire. Despite his helicopter being severely damaged by mortar fragments during the loading of the wounded, Ferguson disregarded the damage and took off through the continuing hail of mortar fire. He skillfully navigated the return route through the same rain of fire and safely delivered his wounded passengers to friendly control. CWO Ferguson's extraordinary determination and bravery saved the lives of five comrades. For his heroic actions on Jan. 31, 1968, Ferguson received the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Army Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Littrell's distinguished military career, spanning over two decades, is epitomized by his extraordinary leadership during a critical situation in Vietnam, for which he earned the Medal of Honor.
At nine, Littrell was inspired to join the military after witnessing parachute jumps at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He enlisted in the Army in 1961, one day after his 17th birthday and was deployed to Okinawa in 1962 with the newly converted 173rd Airborne Brigade. In 1965, Littrell was reassigned to the 82nd Airborne serving in the Dominican Republic, before attending and graduating from Ranger School in 1966 and continuing as an instructor until 1969, when he received orders to Vietnam.
In April 1970, then-Sgt. 1st Class Littrell was advising the 23rd Vietnamese Ranger Battalion near the Laotian border. On Apr. 4, 1970, his unit, comprising 473 South Vietnamese soldiers and three American advisers, was surrounded by approximately 5,000 North Vietnamese troops. The enemy's initial mortar barrage killed the South Vietnamese commander and one American adviser, and seriously wounding the remaining advisors except Sfc. Littrell, leaving him to lead the defense.
Littrell's fluency in Vietnamese enabled him to communicate effectively with the remaining troops. Over the next four days, he demonstrated "near superhuman strength," repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire to direct artillery, call in air support, redistribute ammunition, care for the wounded, and bolster the troops' morale. His leadership and bravery inspired the battalion to repel numerous assaults.
On the final day, Littrell's commander informed him that a path had been cleared for escape. Despite facing several ambushes, Littrell maintained order and directed airstrikes, some within 50 meters of his position. After a grueling five-mile journey, the battalion reached friendly forces. Of the 476 men who started the mission, 41 survived, thanks to Littrell's courage and leadership.
On Oct. 15, 1973, he received the Medal of Honor from President Richard M. Nixon. Littrell humbly regarded himself as a representative for the fallen soldiers, stating, “I'm wearing this medal for the 400 and some people that died those four days.”
Littrell continued his military career, deploying to Vietnam again in 1974, and retired in October 1983. He later moved to Florida with his wife, Mitsue, and their two sons, where he counseled veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs and was inducted into the Army Ranger Hall of Fame in 1993.
Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Littrell's legacy of bravery, leadership, and dedication to his fellow soldiers continues to inspire and honor the highest traditions of military service.
Medal of Honor Recipient
On Jan. 16-18, 1968, during a mission near the village of Thong Binh, Sgt. Gordon D. Yntema and two platoons of civilian irregulars from Camp Cai Cai engaged in a fierce small-arms firefight with the Viet Cong. When the Vietnamese commander was seriously wounded, Yntema assumed control, advancing his troops to within 50 meters of enemy bunkers. After a 30-minute firefight, he strategically withdrew his men to a trench to continue their blocking mission. Despite being pinned down by a company of Viet Cong and suffering heavy losses from a mortar barrage, Yntema refused to abandon his position. Seriously wounded and ordered to withdraw, he instead carried the wounded Vietnamese commander and a mortally wounded American Special Forces adviser to safety. He continued to repel the enemy until he ran out of ammunition. Offered the chance to surrender, Yntema chose to stand his ground, using his rifle as a club to fight off approximately 15 Viet Cong. His fierce resistance forced the enemy to shoot him to overcome his defense. Yntema would become one of four Green Berets to receive the Medal of Honor (posthumously) for actions during the Tet Offensive period.
Commanding officer of 1st Battalion - Distinguished Service Cross
Lt. Gen. Harold "Hal" Gregory Moore graduated from West Point in June 1945 and entered the infantry branch as a second lieutenant just three months before the end of World War II. While Moore was unable to serve in that conflict, he went on to serve in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Moore's heroism in the Ia Drang Valley, Republic of Vietnam, earned him the Distinguished Service Cross for his leadership of a vital search and destroy operation. At the time, Moore served as commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). His unit was dropped by helicopter into the Ia Drang Valley on Nov. 14, 1965, in one of the first major battles between U.S. and North Vietnamese forces. During the battle, 234 Americans were killed, and another 250 were wounded. Estimates of the North Vietnamese killed range between 600 and 1,200, depending on sources. On November 15, 1965, the battalion faced a three-pronged insurgent assault aimed at surrounding and destroying the friendly forces. Moore moved from position to position, directing accurate fire and providing moral support to the defending forces. His foresight and skill in predicting insurgent attack plans allowed him to thwart their efforts by coordinating barrages of small arms, mortar, and artillery fire, along with devastating air strikes against Viet Cong positions. As the battle continued into the third day, Moore's ability to shift men and firepower at a moment's notice repulsed another large Viet Cong strike. His leadership and combat participation inspired his battalion to decisively defeat the numerically superior Viet Cong force, resulting in a significant victory for the 1st Battalion. Moore's book, "We Were Soldiers Once...and Young," about the exploits of his battalion in the Battle of Ia Drang Valley during the Vietnam War -- co-written with journalist Joseph L. Galloway -- was adapted into a 2002 Hollywood film in which Moore was portrayed by actor Mel Gibson.
16th Chief of the Army Nurses Corps
Hazel Johnson-Brown was a nurse, educator and Army leader who held numerous positions throughout her distinguished career. Her passion for medicine and education significantly contributed to the quality of the Army Nurse Corps and the establishment of enduring nursing education practices. She trained nurses for service in both operating rooms and combat medical tents during the Vietnam War. In 1973, the Army sponsored her pursuit of a Ph.D. in education administration while she served as the director and assistant dean of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Nursing. Following a tour as chief nurse in Seoul, South Korea, she was nominated to serve as chief of the Army Nurse Corps. In this role, she drafted the first Army Nurse Corps Standards of Practice and established Army nursing conferences to promote the sharing of nursing research and to highlight the contributions of nurses. Her accolades include the Distinguished Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal, and she was honored as Army Nurse of the Year on two occasions. She passed away in 2011, and in recognition of her significant contributions to the nursing profession and her dedication to the U.S. Army, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a joint resolution in her honor. She is interred at Arlington National Cemetery.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Henry Svehla was born on May 2, 2011, in New Jersey. He enlisted in the Army in November 1951 in the midst of the Korean War. In February 1952, he was sent to fight as a rifleman with the 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. On June 12, 1952, he and his platoon were subjected to intense enemy automatic weapons and small-arms fire while patrolling a strategic hill. Realizing the success of the mission and the safety of the remaining troops were in peril, Pfc. Svehla charged the enemy, firing his weapon and throwing grenades as he advanced. With utter disregard for his own safety, Svehla destroyed enemy positions and inflicted heavy casualties, when fragments from a mortar round suddenly wounded him in the face. Despite his wounds, he refused medical treatment and continued to lead the attack. When an enemy grenade landed among his comrades, Svehla was mortally wounded when he threw himself upon it. For these actions, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2011.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Capt. Hugh R. Nelson Jr., born on July 11, 1937, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, was the son of Army Air Corps Lt. Col. Hugh Reavis Nelson Sr. and Sarah Beth Burnett Nelson. He graduated from The Citadel in 1959. Nelson served as a helicopter pilot with the 114th Aviation Company (Airmobile Light) during the Vietnam War. On June 5, 1966, near Moc Hoa, Republic of Vietnam, Nelson was the acting aircraft commander of a Huey helicopter on a search-and-destroy mission. The aircraft was struck by enemy fire, rendering it uncontrollable. Nelson and the pilot managed to crash-land. Despite the crash, Nelson exited the aircraft to aid his wounded comrades. He found his dazed and wounded crew chief trapped inside and removed him. Nelson then re-entered the damaged helicopter to assist the door gunner, who was still strapped inside. Under heavy enemy fire, Nelson freed the door gunner and used his own body as a shield to protect his comrade. Nelson was hit multiple times and sacrificed his life to save his fellow Soldier. His actions allowed the wounded door gunner to signal for help, leading to the successful rescue of the three wounded crew members. Nelson's selfless sacrifice and gallantry earned him the Medal of Honor, posthumously awarded by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on Jan. 3, 2025. His medal was presented to his daughter, Debra Nelson McKnight, during a Medal of Honor ceremony at the White House.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Jack Weinstein was born in Lamar, Mo., Oct. 18, 1928. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1950. Weinstein is being recognized for his exceptionally valorous actions on Oct. 19, 1951, in the vicinity of Kumson, Korea, when his platoon came under enemy attack. He volunteered to stay back and provide cover while his men withdrew from their positions. Weinstein killed six enemy combatants and, after running out of ammunition, used enemy grenades around him to keep the enemy forces back. Weinstein held his position until friendly forces moved back in and pushed the enemy back. After a year and a half in Korea, Weinstein returned home, married, and settled in Saint Francis, Kan. Weinstein and his wife had five children, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Weinstein passed away, April 20, 2006. Weinstein received the Medal of Honor, Mar. 18, 2014; Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Infantryman Badge, United Nations Service Medal, and Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Spc. 5 James C. McCloughan, born on Apr. 30, 1946, in South Haven, Michigan, was a dedicated athlete and musician. He attended Bangor High School and Olivet College, where he excelled in sports and earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and a teaching certificate in 1968. Shortly after accepting a teaching position, McCloughan was drafted into the U.S. Army on Aug. 29, 1968. McCloughan completed basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and advanced training as a medical specialist at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. He was deployed to Vietnam in March 1969, serving as a combat medic with Company C, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 196th Light Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. From May 13-15, 1969, McCloughan distinguished himself during 48 hours of intense combat near Tam Kỳ and Nui Yon Hill. On May 13, he rescued a wounded Soldier under heavy enemy fire, saving him from capture or death. Later that day, he braved enemy fire to rescue two more Soldiers, despite being wounded by shrapnel. On May 14, the medic from 1st Platoon was killed, leaving McCloughan the sole medical specialist in the company. McCloughan continued to treat and evacuate wounded Soldiers, even after being wounded by small arms fire and shrapnel. When supplies ran low, he volunteered to hold a blinking light in an open area at nighttime to mark a resupply drop, exposing himself to enemy fire. On May 15, he knocked out an enemy RPG position with a grenade and continued to fight and treat casualties, saving the lives of ten members of his company. For his extraordinary heroism, McCloughan was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Donald J. Trump on July 31, 2017. President Trump praised McCloughan's actions, stating, "For over two centuries, our brave men and women in uniform have overcome tyranny, fascism, communism and every threat to our freedom — every single threat they've overcome. And we’ve overcome these threats because of titans like Jim, whose spirit could never be conquered."
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Jesus S. Duran was born, July 26, 1948, in Juarez, Mexico. Duran joined the U.S. Army on May 13, 1968. He was assigned to Company E, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) to support the efforts of Search and Destroy. In the course of the third phase of the Vietnam War, then-Spc. 4 Jesus S. Duran distinguished himself on April 10, 1969, as a machine-gunner on a search and clear operation. His actions saved several wounded Americans and led to the enemy's retreat. After leaving the military, Duran pursued a career as a corrections officer at a juvenile detention center in San Bernardino, Ca. While working there, he dedicated numerous hours of personal time to mentor youth and lead them on educational trips. Duran married twice and had two children. He was the sixth sibling out of 12, and loved spending time with all of his family. Duran received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge, Sharpshooter Marksmanship Badge with Auto Rifle and machine-gun Bars, Marksman Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citations with Palm Device.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Joe R. Baldonado was born in Colorado, Aug. 28, 1930. He joined the U.S. Army as a light weapons infantryman (parachutist) during the Korean War. Baldonado distinguished himself on Nov. 25, 1950, while serving as a machine-gunner in the vicinity of Kangdong, Korea. Baldonado's platoon was occupying Hill 171 when the enemy attacked, attempting to take their position. Baldonado held an exposed position, cutting down wave after wave of enemy troops even as they targeted attacks on his position. During the final assault by the enemy, a grenade landed near Baldanado's gun, killing him instantly. His remains still have not been found. Baldonado's acts of bravery were briefly described in a book, "Disaster in Korea: The Chinese Confront MacArthur." Baldonado received the Medal of Honor, Mar. 18, 2014; Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Jose Rodela was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, June 15, 1937. He entered the U.S. Army in September 1955, at the age of 17. Rodela is being recognized for his valorous actions on Sept. 1, 1969, while serving as the company commander in Phuoc Long Province, Vietnam. Rodela commanded his company throughout 18 hours of continuous contact when his battalion was attacked and taking heavy casualties. Throughout the battle, despite his wounds, Rodela repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to attend to the fallen and eliminate an enemy rocket position. Rodela retired from the Army in 1975. He currently resides in San Antonio, Texas. Rodela received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal with "V" Device, Army Commendation Medal with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal with Silver Clasp and one Loop, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Service Star, Korea Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Expert Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, Special Forces Tab, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Unit Citation First Class, Republic of Vietnam Special Forces Honorary Jump Wings, Columbian Army Parachutist Badge.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Drafted into the Army in October 1950, then-Pfc. Joseph C. Rodriguez found himself in Korea with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Inf. Div. less than a year later. On May 21, 1951, Rodriguez led his squad on a mission to take a hill near the small village of Munye-Ri. The squad was soon pinned down by a barrage of automatic and small-arms fire on three sides. "I felt something had to be done," Rodriguez said during an oral history interview. "I didn't even think about it. I just did it." He leaped to his feet and sprinted 60 yards toward the top of the hill. As bullets sprayed the ground around him, Rodriguez destroyed five foxholes with grenades, killing a total of 15 enemy soldiers.
Rodriguez’s actions, according to his Medal of Honor citation, “exacted a toll of 15 enemy dead and, as a result of his incredible display of valor, the defense of the opposition was broken, and the enemy routed, and the strategic strongpoint secured.” He was subsequently promoted to sergeant and was decorated with the Medal of Honor on Feb. 5, 1952, by President Harry S. Truman.
Rodriguez made a career of the Army, becoming a commissioned officer in 1953 with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He served more than 30 years, including four assignments in Latin America. He retired as a colonel in 1980.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Juan E. Negron was born in Corozal, Puerto Rico. He entered the U.S. Army in March 1948. Then-Sgt. Juan E. Negron distinguished himself on Apr. 28, 1951, for actions near Kalma-Eri, Korea. Negron held the most vulnerable position on his company's exposed right flank after an enemy force had overrun a section of the line. He held the position throughout the night, accurately hurling hand grenades at short range when hostile troops approached his position. Following the war, Negron returned to the U.S. and remained on Active duty. He served a total of 23 years and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. His positions include the senior non-commissioned officer for the Directorate of Doctrine, which would help define the Army's combat strategy, and the Inspector General in Thailand. During his service, he became a member of the Veterans of Foreign War, The Legion of Valor, and The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. Upon retirement, Negron would become very involved in education and would enter into federal service in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Negron received the Medal of Honor, Mar. 18, 2014; Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Navy Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Infantryman Badge, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal, and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Spc. 4th Class Kenneth J. David, born on Jan. 21, 1950, and raised in Girard, Ohio. Drafted into the U.S. Army in August 1969, he completed basic training at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and advanced training at Fort Polk, Louisiana. David served as an indirect fire crewman and deployed to Vietnam in January 1970, with Company D, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. On May 7, 1970, acting as a radio-telephone operator near Fire Support Base Maureen in Thua Thien Province, David's company came under intense attack from a large enemy force. Despite the initial assault mortally wounding the platoon leader and causing numerous casualties, David handed his radio to his platoon sergeant and moved to the defensive perimeter, unleashing automatic weapons fire on the enemy. He repeatedly exposed himself to draw enemy fire away from the wounded and medevac helicopters, despite being wounded by an exploding satchel charge. David's actions allowed the wounded to be safely evacuated and reinforcements to reach the company's position. As allied reinforcements pushed towards his company’s position, he carried a wounded comrade to a sheltered position. He returned to the contact area and continued to engage the enemy, providing covering fire until the enemy retreated. For his extraordinary heroism, David was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. After leaving the Army, David worked and retired from York Mahoning Mechanical in Youngstown, Ohio, and was inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor and Military Bravery in 2010. He was also inducted as a Distinguished Member of the Regiment of the 1-506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell. His awards include the Distinguished Service Cross, the Purple Heart with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Air Medal.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Capt. Larry L. Taylor, born in 1942 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, grew up in a family with a strong military tradition — his great-great-grandfather fought in the Civil War, his great-uncle in World War I, and his father and uncles in World War II. He joined the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and upon graduation in June 1966, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army Reserve, then joined the regular Army as an armor officer. Taylor then transitioned to become a helicopter pilot, completing his training at Fort Wolters, Texas and Fort Rucker, Alabama. Taylor served in Vietnam from August 1967 to August 1968 with D Troop (Air), 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. He flew over 2,000 combat missions in UH-1 and Cobra helicopters, earning numerous decorations, including the Silver Star, 43 Air Medals, a Bronze Star, and two Distinguished Flying Crosses. On June 18, 1968, near Ap Go Cong, Vietnam, then-1st Lt. Taylor performed a daring rescue of a four-man long-range reconnaissance patrol team surrounded by enemy forces. Despite intense ground fire and low fuel, Taylor landed his Cobra helicopter under heavy enemy fire, allowing the patrol team to climb aboard and escape. His actions saved the lives of the patrol team. For his heroic actions, Taylor was awarded the Silver Star, which was upgraded to the Medal of Honor. On September 5, 2023, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. presented the Medal of Honor to Taylor in a ceremony at the White House. President Biden remarked, "When duty called, Larry did everything — did everything to answer. And because of that, he rewrote the fate of four families for generations to come. That's valor." Taylor died at his Signal Mountain, Tennessee home in 2024.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Leonard Alvarado was born in Bakersfield, Calif., Feb. 13, 1947. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, July 25, 1968. Alvarado distinguished himself on Aug. 12, 1969, while serving as a rifleman during a mission to relieve a sister platoon in Phuoc Long Province, Vietnam. Alvarado was killed in action after disrupting an enemy raid and saving the lives of several comrades, leaving behind his wife and young daughter. Alvarado received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Valorous Unit Award, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Unit Citation First Class, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Expert Marksmanship Badge with Rifle, Auto Rifle and Machine-Gun Bars.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Leonard M. Kravitz was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1931. Kravitz is being recognized for his actions in Yangpyong, Korea, on Mar. 6-7, 1951. While occupying defensive positions, Kravitz's unit was overrun by enemy combatants and forced to withdraw. Kravitz voluntarily remained at a machine-gun position to provide suppressive fire for the retreating troops. This forced the enemy to concentrate its attack on his own position. Kravitz ultimately did not survive the attack, but his actions saved his entire platoon. Kravitz received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, United Nations Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Republic of Korea Korean War Service Medal, and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. Leslie H. Sabo Jr., born on Feb. 23, 1948, in Kufstein, Austria, was part of an immigrant family that fled to the United States to escape the Soviet takeover of Eastern Europe. Growing up in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, Sabo was known for his kindheartedness, hard work and dependability. After attending Youngstown State University for a year and a half, he left school and was working at a steel mill when he was drafted into the Army in April 1969. Sabo enlisted as an infantryman and was assigned to the 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. On May 10, 1970, during a secret reconnaissance mission in Cambodia, then Spc. 4 Sabo's platoon was ambushed by a large North Vietnamese force. Despite being outnumbered and under heavy fire, Sabo charged the enemy position, killing several enemy soldiers and drawing fire away from his comrades. He shielded a wounded comrade from a grenade blast, absorbing the brunt of the explosion himself. Although severely wounded, Sabo continued to fight, ultimately silencing an enemy bunker with a grenade, sacrificing his life in the process. Sabo's heroic actions saved the lives of many of his platoon members. He was posthumously promoted to sergeant, but his bravery went unrecognized for decades due to the classified nature of the mission. Sabo's company commander, Capt. Jim Waybright recommended him for the Medal of Honor shortly after the mission in which he died, but the account of his actions was lost. In 1999, his actions were rediscovered and the work to get Sabo's Medal of Honor began. Finally, in 2012 — 42 years after his death — Sabo was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His widow, Rose Mary Buccelli, accepted the medal from President Barack Obama at a White House ceremony. Sabo's legacy is honored through various memorials, including the renaming of the Ellwood City Post Office and a fitness center at Fort Campbell. His selfless courage and dedication to his fellow Soldiers exemplify the highest ideals of military service.
Bronze Star Medal Recipient
Linda Bray attended the Military Police Officer Basic Course as a second lieutenant in 1983 and was then assigned to the 556th Military Police Company in Germany. In 1988, she was promoted to captain and was assigned to the 988th Military Police Company at Fort Benning. In December 1989, her company deployed to Panama for Operation Just Cause. Bray led 30 Soldiers of the 988th Military Police Company into combat to seize an enemy objective near Panama City, making her the first woman in the U.S. military to lead troops in combat. In 2023, Bray received the Bronze Star Medal with “V” device, or BSM(V), for her valorous actions in Panama.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Melvin Morris was born in Okmulgee, Okla., Jan. 7, 1942. Morris entered the Oklahoma Army National Guard in 1959 and later requested to join the active Army. He became one of the first Soldiers to don the 'green beret' at the command of President John F. Kennedy, Fort Bragg, N.C., in 1961. Morris volunteered twice for deployments to Vietnam. Melvin Morris is being recognized for his valorous actions on Sept. 17, 1969, while commanding the Third Company, Third Battalion of the IV Mobile Strike Force near Chi Lang. Then-Staff Sgt. Morris led an advance across enemy lines to retrieve a fallen comrade and single-handedly destroyed an enemy force that had pinned his battalion from a series of bunkers. Staff Sgt. Morris was shot three times as he ran back toward friendly lines with the American casualties, but did not stop until he reached safety. The Distinguished Service Cross was awarded to then Staff Sgt. Morris in April 1970 for extraordinary heroism during the 1969 battle. After receiving the award, he returned to Vietnam the same month for his second tour. He retired at Fort Hood, Texas, in May 1985. Morris currently resides in Cocoa, Fla. Morris received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal Silver with one Loop, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Star, Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral "3", Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with Numeral "4", Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Expert Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, Special Forces Tab, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Bronze Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Vietnam Parachutist Badge, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Citation, First Class.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Michael C. Peña was born in Newgulf, Texas, in Nov. 1924. He joined the U. S. Army as an infantryman in 1941, when he was 16 years old. He fought in both World War II and the Korean War. Peña is being recognized for his actions on the evening of Sept. 4, 1950, near Waegwan, Korea, when his unit was fiercely attacked. During the counter-attack, Peña realized that their ammunition was running out and ordered his unit to retreat. Peña then manned a machine gun to cover their withdrawal. He single-handedly held back the enemy until morning, when his position was overrun, and he was killed. Peña received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal with Bronze Clasp and two Loops, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with four Bronze Service Stars and Bronze Arrowhead Device, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal with Japan Clasp, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Infantryman Badge (2nd Award), Honorable Service Lapel Button- World War II, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Philippine Independence Ribbon, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Gold Bravery Medal of Greece Unit Citation.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Miguel Armando "Nando" Vera was born in Puerto Rico. Vera joined the U.S. Army when he was 17 years old. Vera is being recognized for his heroic actions at Chorwon, Korea, Sept. 21, 1952. While Vera's unit attempted to retake the right sector of "Old Baldy", they came under heavy fire at close range and were forced back. Vera selflessly chose to stay behind and cover the troop's withdrawal, and lost his life during this action. Vera received the Medal of Honor, Mar. 18, 2014; Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal, Wharang Distinguished Military Service Medal with Silver Star.
Medal of Honor
Mitchell Red Cloud Jr. was born on Apr. 3, 1925, in Wisconsin. He served as a Marine during World War II, and after the war, he reenlisted as a U.S. Soldier in 1948. In 1950, he deployed to Korea with the 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. On Nov. 5, 1950, Cpl. Red Cloud was on a ridge guarding his company command post when he was surprised by Chinese communist forces. He sounded the alarm and, as the Chinese charged from a brush-covered area less than 100 feet away, he delivered devastating point-blank automatic-rifle fire into the advancing enemy. His accurate and intense fire checked the assault and gained time for the company to consolidate its defense. With utter fearlessness, he maintained his position until severely wounded by enemy fire. Refusing assistance, he pulled himself to his feet, wrapped his arm around a tree and continued to fire until he was fatally wounded. This heroic act stopped the enemy from overrunning his company's position and gained time for reorganization and evacuation of the wounded. For these actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. Mitchell W. Stout received the Medal of Honor posthumously for actions during the Vietnam War. On Mar. 12, 1970, Stout, who enlisted in the Army from Raleigh, North Carolina, was serving with C Battery, 1st Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery, in Vietnam when his searchlight crew position came under heavy enemy mortar fire and ground attack. As the mortar attack subsided, a hand grenade landed in their bunker. Displaying great courage, Stout grabbed the grenade and ran to the door, but it exploded before he made it out. By holding the grenade close to his body and shielding its blast, he protected his fellow Soldiers in the bunker from further injury or death. In recognition of Stout's status as the only air defense artillery Soldier to receive the Medal of Honor, the Army renamed the Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense, or M-SHORAD, to the SGT STOUT.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Col. Paris D. Davis, born in 1939 in Cleveland, Ohio, pursued both military and sports interests at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he studied political science on an ROTC scholarship. Commissioned as an Army reserve armor officer in 1959, Davis graduated from Airborne and Ranger schools in 1960 and was selected for the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, serving in Korea and Vietnam.
Davis first deployed to Vietnam in 1962 and again in 1965, where he was promoted to captain and served as a detachment commander with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. On June 17-18, 1965, in Bình Định province, Davis led a team of inexperienced South Vietnamese volunteers and Special Forces Soldiers against a superior enemy force. Over two days, he engaged in hand-to-hand combat, called for precision artillery fire and prevented the capture of three American Soldiers, despite sustaining multiple wounds.
For his heroic actions, Davis received the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal with "V" device, Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster and the Air Medal with "V" device. He also received the Soldier's Medal for saving a Soldier from a burning fuel truck. Davis is one of only four service members in U.S. military history to receive both the Soldier's Medal and the Medal of Honor.
Davis attended Command and General Staff College in 1971 and the Naval War College in 1980. He served on the Army staff, in the Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and at Headquarters, U.S. Army European Command. He commanded the 10th Special Forces Group and was promoted to colonel in 1981, retiring from the Army in 1985. Davis holds a master's degree in public affairs from Southern Illinois University and a Ph.D. in public administration from Northern Virginia University. He was inducted into the U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame in 2019.
On March 3, 2023, in a ceremony at the White House, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. awarded the Medal of Honor to Davis for his actions in June 1965. President Biden praised Davis's heroism, stating, "Capt. Davis saved — had saved each one of his fellow Americans. Every single one."
Medal of Honor Recipient
Col. Ralph Puckett Jr., born on Dec. 8, 1926, in Tifton, Georgia, was a distinguished and highly decorated U.S. Army officer. A 1949 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Puckett received his commission as an infantry officer. While assigned to occupation duty in Okinawa and volunteered for the Eighth Army Ranger Company shortly after the Korean Conflict began in 1950 and was selected as the company’s commander. On Nov. 25-26, 1950, 1st Lt. Puckett led his Rangers in a heroic assault on Hill 205 near Unsan, Korea. Despite being outnumbered ten to one, Puckett and his Rangers repelled five successive Chinese counterattacks over four hours. During the sixth assault, with no artillery support available, the Ranger company was overrun. Puckett, severely wounded, ordered his men to leave him behind, but they refused and evacuated him to safety. For his actions, Puckett was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor. Puckett continued to serve on active duty, including assignments at the U.S. Army Ranger School and West Point. He established the prestigious Escuela de Lanceros program as a Ranger advisor to the Colombian Army. After completing Special Forces training in 1960, he commanded B and C teams in the 10th Special Forces Group in Germany. He retired in 1971 and later became the national programs coordinator of Outward Bound, Inc., and established Discovery, Inc., a leadership development program. Puckett's awards include the Distinguished Service Crosses, two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, two Bronze Stars with V device for valor, five Purple Hearts, ten Air Medals and the French Croix de Guerre, among others. He earned the Combat Infantryman’s Badge with star, Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, Master Parachutist Wings, Glider Badge and Colombian Lancero Ranger Badge. Puckett remained active in military affairs and his local community until his death on April 8, 2024. His legacy of courage, leadership and dedication to duty continues to inspire Soldiers.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Gen. Richard E. Cavazos, born on Jan. 31, 1929, in Kingsville, Texas, and was raised on a cattle ranch by his parents. Cavazos attended Texas Technological College, now Texas Tech University, on a football scholarship until breaking his leg in his sophomore year. After recovering from his injury, he continued his education through the ROTC program and graduated with distinction in 1951. Commissioned into the Army, he completed officer training at Fort Benning, Georgia. Cavazos served as a platoon leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division — known as the Borinqueneers — during the Korean War. His bilingual skills were invaluable in leading the primarily Puerto Rican unit. In February 1953, he captured a wounded enemy soldier under heavy fire, earning a Silver Star. In June 1953, he led an assault on Hill 412, repeatedly rescuing wounded Soldiers despite being injured, actions that earned him the Distinguished Service Cross. After rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel, Cavazos was sent to in Vietnam in 1967 where he would command the 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regimen. He was known for his style of leading from the front — preferring to fight on the ground with his troops during the battle. He organized a successful counterattack near Loc Ninh, earning him a second Distinguished Service Cross. More than a leader on the battlefield, his mentorship significantly influenced the Army, including the development of the Battle Command Training Program, now known as the Mission Command Training Program. Gen. Colin Powell credited Cavazos for helping him after a poor performance evaluation that had Powell reconsidering his Army career. Cavazos was promoted to general in 1982 and retired in 1984 after 33 years of service. He passed away on Oct. 29, 2017, at age 88. A testament to his legacy, Fort Hood was renamed Fort Cavazos in his honor on May 9, 2023. On Jan 3, 2025, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. posthumously awarded him the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in Korea, presenting the medal to his daughter, Laura Blevins.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. 1st Class Rodney Yano served with the Air Calvary Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. In 1969, in the dense jungle near Bien Hao, he was aboard a command-and-control helicopter when they began receiving intense fire. He fired back and marked their positions with smoke and white phosphorus grenades, so the commander could direct more accurate artillery fire against the enemy. One of those grenades exploded prematurely, covering him with burning phosphorus and detonating the ammunition in the helicopter. The pilot lost control, but Yano began hurling burning ammunition from the helicopter. His bravery cost him his life, but the pilot was able to regain control of the aircraft because of Yano's actions, which helped save the lives of the other crew members.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Master Sgt. Roy P. Benavidez, born on Aug. 5, 1935, in Cuero, Texas, epitomized the Warrior Ethos throughout his life and military career. Raised by his aunt and uncle after losing his parents at a young age, Benavidez joined the Texas National Guard at 17 and later transitioned to active duty, serving in South Korea and Germany before becoming a Military Police officer. In 1965, Benavidez deployed to Vietnam with the 82nd Airborne Division. After a severe injury from a land mine left him paralyzed, he defied medical expectations by regaining his ability to walk and returned to active duty. He completed Special Forces training and was assigned to the 5th Special Forces Group. On May 2, 1968, while returning from Catholic Mass, then-Staff Sgt. Benavidez heard a distress call over the radio. His comrade, Sgt. 1st Class LeRoy Wright, was part of a 12-man team under attack by a North Vietnamese Army battalion near Loc Ninh, Cambodia. Outnumbered nearly 100 to 1, the team had already seen three helicopters fail in rescue attempts. Without hesitation, Benavidez grabbed an aid bag and armed only with a combat knife, boarded the next helicopter. Unable to land, Benavidez jumped from the helicopter into what he later described as "six hours in hell." Shortly after landing, he was shot in the leg and struck by grenade shrapnel in the head and face while running to the team's position. Upon meeting the team, he reorganized the forces, stabilized the wounded and armed himself with an AK-47. He signaled for extraction and led the walking wounded to the helicopters, continuing to suppress enemy fire. While directing the men to evacuate was shot in the stomach and received further shrapnel wounds from a grenade, as the pilot of one of the helicopters was killed and the helicopter overturned. Benavidez immediately moved to a crash site, reorganized survivors into a defensive position, and called in air support. Although wounded and administering first aid, he made trips to move his comrades to safety and ensure no classified material was left behind. On one run, he was clubbed and bayoneted by an enemy soldier, whom he killed with his knife and continued to protect the helicopter pilot. After a final check, he finally allowed himself to be pulled into a helicopter to be evacuated. Sustaining 37 wounds, he was presumed dead and placed in a body bag. Unable to move or speak, he mustered the last of his strength to spit in a doctor's face and indicate he was alive. After over a year in hospitals, Benavidez recovered and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. As the Army believed there were no eyewitnesses to his account, a requirement at the time, he was not given the Medal of Honor. On Feb. 24, 1981, President Ronald Reagan upgraded his award to the Medal of Honor after an eyewitness account was found. Benavidez retired in 1976 and dedicated his post-military life to mentoring youth and advocating for veterans' benefits. He passed away on Nov. 29, 1998, and was buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Santiago Erevia was born in Nordheim, Texas, in 1946. He volunteered to join the U.S. Army in San Antonio when he was 22-years-old. Then-Spc. 4 Erevia distinguished himself May 21, 1969, while serving as a radio-telephone operator during a search-and-clear mission near Tam Ky City, in the Republic of Vietnam. In 1970, Erevia left active service with a two-year reserve obligation. In 1972, he joined the Texas National Guard and went on to serve 17 years. Erevia also found employment with the U.S. Postal Service; after 32 years of public service there, he retired in 2002. Erevia passed away on March 22, 2016. Erevia received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with five Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge, Sharpshooter Marksmanship Badge with Auto Rifle Bar, Marksman Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with "60" Device, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Gold Star Device and Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal, First Class.
Medal of Honor recipient
Corporal Tibor Rubin, born on June 18, 1929, in Hungary, survived the horrors of the Holocaust before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After being liberated from the Mauthausen Concentration Camp by American Soldiers at the end of World War II, Rubin moved to New York and joined the U.S. Army to express his gratitude. While serving with the 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division during the Korean War, Rubin's bravery and selflessness were evident. While retreating to the Pusan Perimeter, Rubin was assigned to defend the Taegu-Pusan Road link used by his unit to withdraw. Rubin single-handedly defended a hill against a North Korean assault, ensuring the successful withdrawal of the 8th Cavalry Regiment. During the unit's push northward, Rubin aided in the capture of several hundred North Korean soldiers. On Oct. 30, 1950, at Unsan, Korea, Rubin selflessly defended his unit against a massive Chinese assault, holding off the enemy by manning a machine gun, allowing his comrades to retreat safely. Although he greatly slowed the pace of the southward enemy advance, he was captured and severely wounded. As a prisoner of war, Rubin's survival skills and compassion saved the lives of over 40 fellow Soldiers. He stole food, provided medical care and maintained morale, demonstrating extraordinary heroism. Rubin was repatriated under Operation Little Switch, an exchange of sick and wounded prisoners in 1953. Rubin was nominated for the Medal of Honor four times by his comrades. He received the Prisoner of War Medal and two Purple Hearts. In 2005, President George W. Bush awarded the Medal of Honor to Rubin in a White House ceremony. The president remarked that "those who served with Ted speak of him as a soldier of great skill and courage." Rubin passed away on Dec. 5, 2015, in Garden Grove, California.
Medal of Honor recipient
Medal of Honor recipient Victor H. Espinoza was born in El Paso, Texas, on July 15, 1929. Then-Cpl. Victor H. Espinoza is being recognized for his actions on Aug. 1, 1952, at Chorwon, Korea. While spearheading an attack to secure "Old Baldy," Espinoza's unit was pinned down by withering fire from fortified positions. In daring succession, Espinoza single-handedly silenced a machine-gun and its crew, discovered and destroyed a covert enemy tunnel, and wiped out two bunkers. His actions inspired his unit and enabled them to secure the strongpoint against great odds. After leaving the Army, Espinoza resided in El Paso until his death on April 17, 1986. Espinoza is buried at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Espinoza received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Combat Infantryman Badge, United Nations Service Medal, and Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Walter Joseph Marm, Jr. was born in Washington, Pa. and attended Duquesne University. Following graduation in 1964, he enlisted and went to Officer Candidate School and attended the Army Ranger School before receiving his assignment to go to Vietnam with the 1/7th Cavalry, First Cavalry division under Lt. Col. Hal Moore. On Nov. 14, 1965, during the Battle of Ia Drang, Marm was serving as a Second Lieutenant in Company A, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). His actions on that day earned him the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.
As a platoon leader, Marm demonstrated extraordinary courage during a combat operation to relieve a friendly unit surrounded by an enemy force of estimated regimental size. Leading his platoon through withering fire, they were eventually forced to take cover. Realizing the dire situation, Marm saw four enemy soldiers moving into position and quickly moved under heavy fire to annihilate them. Noticing his platoon was under intense fire from a concealed machine gun, he deliberately exposed himself to draw its fire and locate its position. He attempted to destroy it with an antitank weapon, inflicting casualties but not silencing the enemy fire.
On the first day of fighting, Nov. 14, 1965, Marm charged 30 meters across open ground and hurled grenades into the enemy position, killing some of the eight insurgents manning it. Despite being severely wounded, he continued the assault with only a rifle, killing the remaining insurgents. His selfless actions reduced the fire on his platoon, broke the enemy assault, and rallied his unit to continue their mission. United Press International correspondent Joe Galloway witnessed his heroic acts and reported on them. On Dec. 19, 1966, 1st Lt. Marm traveled to the Pentagon to receive the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest award for valor.
Marm continued his distinguished military career, reaching the rank of colonel before retiring from the Army in 1995. His legacy of bravery and leadership remains an inspiration to all who serve.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Pfc. Wataru Nakamura, born on Nov. 20, 1921, in Los Angeles, California, was the second of seven children. After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School, he worked in San Francisco to support his family. Following the signing of Executive Order 9066 in 1942, Nakamura and his family were assigned to a relocation center in Rohwer, Arkansas. He enlisted in the Army in April 1944 and served with the 442nd Regiment in Europe during World War II. After his discharge, he lived in Chicago until being called back to active duty in 1950. In May 1951, Nakamura was serving with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, in Korea. On May 18, 1951, Nakamura volunteered to repair a damaged communications line. Unaware that the enemy had infiltrated friendly positions, he advanced under heavy fire. Displaying extraordinary heroism, he single-handedly destroyed a machine-gun nest and two enemy positions with his carbine, bayonet, and grenades. After exhausting his ammunition, he withdrew, rearmed, briefed the officer in charge and returned to the fight. Nakamura continued his assault, killing and wounding several enemy soldiers before being mortally wounded by a grenade. Nakamura's actions allowed his platoon to maintain their defense lines and inflicted significant enemy casualties. His bravery and selflessness were recognized posthumously with the Medal of Honor, awarded by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on Jan. 3, 2025. The medal was presented to Nakamura's nephew, Gary Takashima, honoring his gallantry and reflecting great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
Medal of Honor recipient
Master Sergeant Woodrow W. Keeble, born on May 16, 1917, in Waubay, South Dakota, served with distinction in the North Dakota National Guard's 164th Infantry Regiment and G Company, 2nd Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. An accomplished athlete, Keeble was being recruited by the Chicago White Sox before being called to duty in World War II. After the war, he taught at the Wahpeton Indian School in North Dakota, his alma mater. He was later called to service again during the Korean War, volunteering as an individual augmentee from the 164th Infantry Regiment. Keeble's valor was legendary during the Korean War. On Oct. 20, 1951, near Sangsan-ni, Korea, he led a one-man assault on Hill 765, destroying three enemy machine-gun positions with grenades and enabling his company to seize the objective. His extraordinary bravery and leadership earned him the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. Despite suffering from tuberculosis, which led to the removal of a lung and subsequent strokes, Keeble continued to inspire those around him. He passed away in 1982, but his legacy lived on. In 2008, President George W. Bush posthumously awarded Keeble the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sergeant First Class Alwyn C. Cashe distinguished himself by acts of gallantry above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Platoon Sergeant with Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division in Salah Ad Din Province, Iraq, on Oct. 17th, 2005. While on a nighttime mounted patrol near an enemy-laden village, the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, which Sergeant First Class Cashe was commanding, was attacked by enemy small-arms fire and an improvised explosive device, which disabled the vehicle and engulfed it in flames. After extracting himself from the vehicle, Sergeant First Class Cashe set about extracting the driver, who was trapped in the vehicle. After opening the driver's hatch, Sergeant First Class Cashe and a fellow soldier extracted the driver, who was engulfed in the flames. In the course of extinguishing the flames on the driver and extracting him from the vehicle, Sergeant First Class Cashe's fuel-soaked uniform ignited and caused severe burns to his body. Ignoring his painful wounds, Sergeant First Class Cashe then moved to the rear of the vehicle to continue aiding his fellow soldiers who were trapped in the troop compartment. At this time, the enemy noted his movements and began to direct their fire on his position. When another element of the company engaged the enemy, Sergeant First Class Cashe seized the opportunity and moved into the open troop door and aided four of his soldiers in escaping the burning vehicle. Having extracted the four soldiers, Sergeant First Class Cashe noticed two other soldiers had not been accounted for, and again he entered the building to retrieve them. At this time, reinforcements arrived to further suppress the enemy and establish a Casualty Collection Point. Despite the severe second- and third-degree burns covering the majority of his body, Sergeant First Class Cashe persevered through the pain to encourage his fellow soldiers and ensure they received needed medical care. When medical evacuation helicopters began to arrive, Sergeant First Class Cashe selflessly refused evacuation until all of the other wounded soldiers were evacuated first. Sergeant First Class Cashe's extraordinary heroism and selflessness above and beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Four-Star General in the U.S. Army
Ann Dunwoody joined the Army in 1974 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Women's Army Corps in 1975. Her first assignment was supply platoon leader in the 226th Maintenance Company (Forward, Direct Support), 100th Supply and Services Battalion. Overall, she spent nearly four decades as an Army logistician, which included overseas deployments during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and leading the deployment of the Logistics Task Force in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During her long career, she served as battalion commander in the 82nd Airborne Division, commanding general of U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and deputy chief of staff of G-4, HQDA. In 2008, she became the first woman in the U.S. military to be promoted to four-star general and served as commanding general of Army Materiel Command from 2008 to 2012. She retired in 2012, after 38 years of service.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sergeant Clinton L. Romesha, hailing from Lake City, California, enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 1999 as an M1 Armor Crewman. He served with distinction in various units, including Bravo Troop, 3-61st Cavalry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. Romesha's deployments included Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. On October 3, 2009, during a fierce attack on Combat Outpost Keating in Kamdesh District, Afghanistan, Romesha exhibited extraordinary heroism. Facing an enemy force of approximately 300 fighters, he led multiple recovery, resupply, and counterattack operations under intense fire. Romesha's actions included engaging enemy positions, recovering fallen comrades, and leading a mission to secure the ammunition supply point. His leadership and bravery were pivotal in repelling the attack and securing the outpost. Romesha separated from the Army in April 2011 and now resides in Minot, North Dakota, with his family. He works as a field safety specialist in the oilfield construction industry. His military awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and numerous other commendations. Staff Sergeant Romesha was awarded the Medal of Honor in a ceremony at the White House, where President Barack Obama presented the medal, recognizing his valor and dedication to his fellow Soldiers.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Master Sergeant Earl D. Plumlee, born in Clinton, Oklahoma, began his military career by joining the Oklahoma National Guard during his junior year of high school. After graduating in 2000, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in a weapons platoon with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment in Hawaii.
After 9/11, Plumlee was deployed to Okinawa, Japan, and was later sent to Bahrain and served on a Marine Security Element with the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet. He would deploy to the Philippines supporting the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines counter-terrorism mission. Upon return from this deployment, Plumlee attended the 4th Force Reconnaissance, Recon Indoctrination Program and was selected to attend the Marines' Amphibious Reconnaissance Course. He later graduated from the Navy's Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape School, Basic Airborne School, the Marine Corps High Risk Personnel Course and Marine Combat Dive School. Plumlee would volunteer to deploy to Iraq with the 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company.
In 2009, after returning from his deployment, Plumlee transitioned to the U.S. Army under the 18X program, and after graduating from Special Forces Qualification Course, became a Special Forces weapons sergeant with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). He deployed to Afghanistan in April 2013, where he demonstrated extraordinary heroism as a staff sergeant during a complex attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni on August 28, 2013.
During the attack, Plumlee responded to a massive explosion that breached the base's perimeter. He and his team engaged insurgents wearing Afghan National Army uniforms and suicide vests. Plumlee and five other Soldiers mounted two vehicles and raced towards the breach. The Plumlee's driver purposefully drove into enemy fire to shield dismounted, injured Soldiers. Plumlee then exited the vehicle, shielding the driver using his own body, and advanced toward the enemy with his pistol drawn. He would go on to engage multiple insurgents, provide first aid to a wounded Soldier and helped organize coalition members in a defensive stance to clear the area. His actions were instrumental in repelling the attack and protecting the base.
For his gallantry, Plumlee was awarded the Silver Star, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor. On December 16, 2021, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. presented the Medal of Honor to Plumlee in a ceremony at the White House. President Biden praised Plumlee's actions, stating, "No one will ever forget how you sprang into action when the enemy attacked our base. I’m grateful for your continued service and dedication to the country.”
Plumlee's awards and decorations include the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, and numerous other commendations. Plumlee retired after 25 years of service to the country in 2023.
First USMA 'Class of 9/11' to Die In Combat in Iraq
2nd Lt. Emily J.T. Perez was born on Feb. 19, 1983, in Heidelberg, West Germany. She attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, where she excelled academically and in leadership roles, earning her the position of cadet brigade command sergeant major — the first Black woman to hold the post — and oversaw the adherence to West Point policies, welfare of cadets and provided guidance to other members of the cadet leadership team
Perez graduated in 2005 alongside the rest of the “Class of 9/11” — named so as the events of 9/11 happened early in their freshman year — and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Medical Service Corps. She was assigned to the 204th Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Hood, Texas. In December 2005, just seven months after graduating, she deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. About 70% of her classmates would find themselves in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Perez primarily served as a convoy commander leading Humvees between military bases in Iraq. Her fellow Soldiers remembered Perez always taking a spot in the lead Humvee, the most dangerous position in the convoy. “She led by example,” recalled one of the Soldiers with Perez the night she died.
On September 12, 2006, after volunteering to lead a convoy mission in Al Kifl, Iraq, Perez's vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device. She was killed in action at the age of 23, while the three other Soldiers in her vehicle were able to be evacuated and survived; the rest of the convoy escaped harm. Her death made her the first Black American female officer to die in combat in Iraq, the first female graduate of West Point to die in the Iraq War, and the first West Point graduate of the “Class of 9/11” to die in combat. Perez was posthumously honored with several decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Army Commendation Medal.
Perez's legacy of selflessness continues on through the Emily J.T. Perez Foundation, a mentorship and scholarship program founded by her parents, Daniel and Vicki Perez.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Captain Florent Groberg, born in Poissy, France, on May 8, 1983, was raised in several places in America, including Bethesda, Maryland, and became a naturalized U.S. citizen on Feb. 27, 2001. He graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 2006 with a bachelor's degree in criminology and criminal justice. Groberg entered the U.S. Army in July 2008 and was commissioned as an infantry officer in December 2008. Assigned to the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Groberg deployed to Afghanistan twice. On Aug. 8, 2012, while serving as a personal security detachment commander in Asadabad, Kunar Province, Groberg displayed extraordinary heroism. He identified a suicide bomber approaching his patrol and, with the help of Sgt. Andrew Mahoney tackled the bomber, causing the explosive vest to detonate. A second bomber, hidden behind a structure, then detonated their vest prematurely. This action helped protect the lives of numerous individuals, including those of several high-ranking coalition and Afghan National Army commanders. Groberg sustained severe injuries, including the loss of 45-50% of his left calf muscle, significant nerve damage, a blown eardrum, and a mild traumatic brain injury. He spent nearly three years recovering at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and was medically retired on July 23, 2015. For his valor, Groberg was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama on Nov. 12, 2015. President Obama remarked, "On his very worst day, he managed to summon his very best." Groberg's other awards include the Bronze Star Medal with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, the Purple Heart, and the Meritorious Service Medal, among others.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sergeant First Class Jared C. Monti, born on Sept. 20, 1975, in Massachusetts, enlisted in the National Guard as a high school junior under the delayed entry program on March 11, 1993. After completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Monti switched to active duty and completed initial military training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Upon completing Advanced Individual Training, he was awarded the military operations specialty 13F, Fire Support Specialist. Monti served at various assignments, including Fort Riley, Kansas; Korea; and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, before being stationed at Fort Drum, New York. Monti's military education included the Combat Life Savers course, Basic Airborne School, Primary Leadership Development Course, Basic Noncommissioned Officer course, Air Assault course, and the Joint Firepower/Control course. His awards and decorations included the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with four oak-leaf clusters, Army Achievement Medal with three oak-leaf clusters, and many others. In June 2006, Monti's unit, the 3rd Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, was conducting Operation Gowardesh Thrust in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan. On June 21, 2006, Monti's patrol was ambushed by a large enemy force. Despite the intense enemy fire, Monti made three attempts to rescue a wounded comrade, Pfc. Bradbury, who was trapped in the open. On his third attempt, Monti was mortally wounded by an RPG explosion. His selfless actions and bravery saved the lives of his fellow Soldiers. For his extraordinary heroism, Monti was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, presented to his family by President Barack Obama on Sept. 17, 2009.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sergeant Kyle J. White, hailing from Seattle, Washington, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2006 and served as an infantryman with Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade. During his deployment to Afghanistan, White's unit was ambushed in Nuristan Province on Nov. 9, 2007. Despite being knocked unconscious by a rocket-propelled grenade and sustaining shrapnel wounds, White exhibited extraordinary bravery. He provided critical first aid to his comrades, including applying tourniquets to the wounded, and established communication with higher command to coordinate air support and evacuation efforts. His actions were instrumental in saving lives and preventing further casualties. For his valor, White was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama in a ceremony at the White House on May 13, 2014. The following day, he was inducted into the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes. His other commendations include the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster and "V" device, and the Combat Infantry Badge, among others.
Commander of U.S. Southern Command
Laura Richardson was commissioned into the Army in 1986 and trained as an Army aviator, having earned her pilot’s license at 16. Over her career, she commanded from the company to Theater Army levels. In 2003-2004 she commanded an assault helicopter battalion of 320 soldiers and 30 Black Hawk helicopters in combat with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. From 2011 to 2012, she was the commander of U.S. Army Operational Test Command, and from 2019 to 2021, she was commander of U.S. Army North. Finally, she became the first female combatant commander when she commanded U.S. Southern Command from 2021 to 2024, the year she retired.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Master Sgt. Leroy A. Petry, born in 1979 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, enlisted in the United States Army in September 1999. After completing his training, he volunteered for the 75th Ranger Regiment, known for its prestigious history. Petry has served in various roles, including grenadier, squad automatic rifleman, fire team leader, squad leader, operations sergeant and weapons squad leader. He deployed eight times in support of overseas contingency operations, including two tours in Iraq and six tours in Afghanistan. On May 26, 2008, then-Staff Sgt. Petry was part of a team executing a daylight raid near Paktya, Afghanistan, when the unit was ambushed by enemy forces. Despite being shot through both legs, Petry continued to lead and protect his fellow Rangers. When an enemy grenade landed near him and two other Rangers, Petry, with complete disregard for his own safety, grabbed the grenade and threw it away, saving their lives. The grenade detonated soon after Petry threw it, resulting in the catastrophic amputation of his right hand. Petry's actions allowed the mission to be completed and saved the lives of his comrades. For his extraordinary bravery, Petry was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama in a ceremony at the White House on July 12, 2011. He would go on to serve as a liaison officer for the United States Special Operations Command Care Coalition, providing oversight to wounded warriors, ill and injured service members and their families. Petry's awards and decorations include two Bronze Star Medals, a Purple Heart and three Army Commendation Medals, among others. Petry retired from the Army on July 29, 2014.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Master Sgt. Matthew Williams, a 3rd Special Forces Group operations sergeant, was originally from Boerne, Texas, and graduated from Angelo State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Driven to serve, Williams enlisted in the Army under the 18X Special Forces enlistment program in September 2005 and completed the Special Forces Qualification Course in 2007, becoming a Green Beret. He was then assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, going on to distinguish himself as a U.S. Army Special Forces operator whose extraordinary heroism during Operation Enduring Freedom earned him the Medal of Honor.
On Apr. 6, 2008, while serving as a weapons sergeant in Afghanistan's Shok Valley, Williams and his team were tasked with a mission to capture or kill high-value targets in a remote mountainous area. During the operation, his team was ambushed by a large enemy force. Under intense enemy fire, Williams displayed exceptional bravery and leadership. He repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to rescue and evacuate wounded soldiers, ensuring their safe extraction from the battlefield. His actions were instrumental in saving the lives of four critically wounded soldiers and preventing the enemy from overrunning their position.
For his valor, Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Donald J. Trump in a ceremony at the White House on Oct. 30, 2019. During the ceremony, President Trump remarked, "Matt’s incredible heroism helped ensure that not a single American soldier died in the Battle of Shok Valley."
In addition to the Medal of Honor, Williams has received numerous other awards, including the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal with Valor, and the Purple Heart. His continued service and dedication to his fellow soldiers exemplify the highest standards of the U.S. Army.
Master Sergeant Matthew O. Williams's legacy of courage and selflessness continues to inspire soldiers and civilians alike, embodying the true spirit of the U.S. Army Special Forces.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. 1st Class Paul Ray Smith, from South Tampa, Florida, served in B Company, 11th Engineer Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division. Born on Sept. 24, 1969, in El Paso, Texas, Smith enlisted in the Army in October 1989 and completed his training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He was deployed to the Persian Gulf War, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo and Operation Iraqi Freedom. On April 4, 2003, during the Battle of Baghdad International Airport, Sgt. 1st Class Smith exhibited extraordinary heroism. Tasked with constructing a prisoner of war holding area, he and his platoon encountered a company-sized enemy force. Smith organized a defense, personally engaging the enemy with grenades, an AT-4, and small arms. When the situation became critical, he manned a .50-caliber machine gun atop a damaged armored personnel carrier, providing crucial fire support until he was mortally wounded. His actions saved the lives of at least 100 Soldiers and thwarted the enemy attack. At a White House ceremony in 2005, President George W. Bush posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor to Smith, presenting the medal and the newly approved Medal of Honor flag to Smith's family, specifically to his eleven-year-old son David.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sergeant Robert J. Miller, born in Pennsylvania in the fall of 1983, grew up in Wheaton, Illinois. He attended Wheaton North High School and later the University of Iowa before enlisting in the Army in August 2003. Miller served as an 18B Special Forces Weapons Sergeant with A Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He deployed twice to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On Jan. 25, 2008, in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, Staff Sgt. Miller's team conducted a combat reconnaissance patrol to Gowardesh to disrupt enemy operations. During the mission, Miller's team was ambushed by a large insurgent force. Despite being outnumbered, Miller displayed extraordinary bravery. He led the counterattack, engaging the enemy with his M249 squad automatic weapon, and provided critical cover fire, allowing his team to maneuver to safety. Miller's actions drew enemy fire away from his comrades, and he continued to fight even after being wounded. He killed or wounded numerous insurgents, ultimately sacrificing his life to save his team. For his valor, Staff Sgt. Miller was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, presented to his family by President Barack Obama on October 6, 2010. His selfless actions and dedication to his fellow Soldiers exemplify the highest standards of military heroism.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Spc. Ross A. McGinnis, born on June 14, 1987, in Meadville, Pennsylvania, grew up in Knox, Pennsylvania. He attended Clarion County public schools, participated in the Boy Scouts and played various sports. McGinnis had a passion for cars and took automotive technology classes at the Clarion County Career Center. On his 17th birthday, he enlisted in the Army through the delayed entry program. After completing his training at Fort Benning, Georgia, McGinnis was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment in Schweinfurt, Germany. He deployed to Eastern Baghdad in August 2006, where he served as an M2 .50 caliber machine gunner. On December 4, 2006, in Adhamiyah, Iraq, an insurgent threw a grenade into McGinnis' Humvee. Without hesitation, McGinnis covered the grenade with his body, absorbing the blast and saving the lives of four fellow Soldiers. For his selfless act of bravery, McGinnis was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, presented to his parents, Tom and Romayne McGinnis, by President George W. Bush on June 2, 2008, at a White House ceremony. His other decorations include the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sergeant Ryan Pitts, hailing from Nashua, New Hampshire, enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2003. He served as a Forward Observer (13F) with Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade. During his service, Pitts deployed twice to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. On July 13, 2008, while providing perimeter security at Observation Post Topside near Wanat Village, Kunar Province, Afghanistan, Pitts displayed extraordinary heroism. Despite being severely wounded by rocket-propelled grenades, he continued to fight, throwing grenades and providing critical information to his command post, which helped prevent the enemy from overrunning the position. His actions were instrumental in saving the lives of his fellow soldiers and repelling the enemy assault. For his valor, Pitts was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama on July 21, 2014. During the ceremony, President Obama remarked, "In Ryan Pitts, you see the humility and the loyalty that define America's men and women in uniform." Pitts' military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device, Purple Heart, and Meritorious Service Medal, among others. He left active duty in 2009 and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business. He currently works in business development in the computer software industry and resides in Nashua, New Hampshire.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sergeant Salvatore A. Giunta, born in Iowa, grew up in Cedar Rapids and Hiawatha. He is the eldest of three children of Steven, a medical equipment technician, and Rosemary, a preschool teacher. Giunta's adventurous spirit and sense of responsibility were evident from a young age. He attended John F. Kennedy High School, where he was known for his charisma and bravery. The events of September 11, 2001, deeply impacted him, solidifying his resolve to serve his country. Giunta enlisted in the Army in November 2003 and has served his entire career with B (Battle) Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, V Corps, Vicenza, Italy. He currently serves as the Rear Detachment Non-commissioned Officer-in-Charge (NCOIC) of Battle Company, responsible for the health, welfare, morale, training, and accountability of all assigned Sky Soldiers. On Oct. 25, 2007, in Afghanistan's Korengal Valley, Giunta's platoon was ambushed by insurgents. Despite intense enemy fire, Giunta charged forward to rescue his comrades, ultimately saving the lives of several Soldiers. For his extraordinary bravery, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the first living recipient since the Vietnam War. President Barack Obama presented the medal to Giunta on November 16, 2010. Giunta's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and many others. His humility and dedication to his fellow Soldiers exemplify the highest ideals of military service.
Distinguished Service Cross
Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker, from Pennsylvania, enlisted in the Army in 1987 and served in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, Booker served with the 3rd Infantry Division. Booker's unit led an offensive armored attack – now famously known as “Thunder Run” – into Baghdad, Iraq on April 5, 2003, which subsequently resulted in the collapse of the Saddam Hussein regime. During the raid, Booker's platoon came under heavy small-arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire. Staff Sgt. Booker immediately reacted, communicated the situation to his chain of command, returned fire with his mounted machine gun and reassured his crew that they would make it to their objective. When his machine gun malfunctioned, Booker disregarded his personal safety and took up an exposed prone position on the top of his tank. While still engaged by heavy enemy fire, he maintained communication with his platoon, destroyed an enemy vehicle and effectively protected his platoon's flank. Booker continued to engage the enemy and protect his platoon while exposed for nearly five miles, until he was fatally wounded. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroic efforts in combat.
Senator
Tammy Duckworth enlisted in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps while earning her master's degree at George Washington University. In 1992, she commissioned into the Army Reserve and entered flight school. In 2004, as a Blackhawk helicopter pilot for the Illinois Army National Guard, she was deployed to Iraq. On Nov. 12, her helicopter was hit by an RPG and she lost her legs and partial use of her right arm. Duckworth served in the Reserve forces for 23 years before retiring at the rank of lieutenant colonel in 2014, but also served the military and the nation as a civilian. She was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2016 after serving two terms in the House of Representatives. Before that, she served as assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and as director of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Sgt. Maj. Thomas P. Payne, born on April 2, 1984, in Batesburg-Leesville and Lugoff, South Carolina, enlisted in the U.S. Army in July 2002. Payne felt a strong sense of duty to serve his country after the 9/11 attacks. He completed the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Indoctrination Program in 2003, and was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, where he served as a rifleman, sniper, and sniper team leader.
In 2007, Payne was selected for assignment to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He has since served in various roles, including special operations team member, assistant team sergeant, team sergeant and instructor. Payne and his teammate won the Best Ranger Competition in 2012, demonstrating their exceptional physical, mental, technical and tactical skills. Throughout his career, Payne has deployed 17 times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn, Operation Inherent Resolve and to the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility.
On October 22, 2015, during a mission in Kirkuk Province, Iraq, then-Sgt. 1st Class Payne's task force of combined American and Kurdish forces was assigned to rescue over 70 Iraqi hostages held by ISIS. Despite intense enemy fire and a burning building, Payne repeatedly exposed himself to danger to cut locks and free the hostages. Payne and his team would help escort them out of the building they were held in, creating a human wall to shield them from any enemy fire, ultimately saving their lives.
For his extraordinary heroism, Payne was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Donald J. Trump on September 11, 2020. President Trump praised Payne's actions, stating, "Pat has said that as soon as our Soldier's boots hit the ground, they are ambassadors of the American way of life. Everywhere they go, the men and women of our armed forces instill our friends with hope, our enemies with dread and our fellow citizens with unyielding American pride."
Payne's awards and decorations the Bronze Star Medal with "V" device and three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters and numerous other commendations. He graduated from Norwich University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in strategic studies and defense analysis.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Staff Sgt. Ty Michael Carter, born in Spokane, Washington, in January 1980, enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2008 after previously serving in the Marine Corps and being honorably discharged in 2002. He served as a Cavalry Scout with the 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. On Oct. 3, 2009, during the Battle of Kamdesh at Combat Outpost Keating in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan, Carter displayed extraordinary heroism. Under intense enemy fire, he resupplied ammunition, provided first aid and rescued a fellow Soldier pinned down by enemy fire. His actions were pivotal in defending the outpost against an overwhelming enemy force. Carter's military awards include the Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, and numerous other commendations. He left the Army as a staff sergeant in 2014. In a White House ceremony on August 26, 2013, President Barack Obama presented the Medal of Honor to Staff Sergeant Carter, recognizing his valor and selflessness. Carter's actions exemplify the highest standards of military service and heroism.
Medal of Honor Recipient
Captain William D. Swenson, a native of Seattle, Washington, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2002. He attended Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia, where he was commissioned as a second lieutenant. Swenson's military education includes the Infantry Officer Basic Course, Infantry Mountain Leader Advanced Marksmanship Course, U.S. Army Airborne School, U.S. Army Ranger School, and the Infantry Maneuver Captains Career Course. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Seattle University. Swenson served one tour in Iraq and two tours in Afghanistan. During his final tour in Afghanistan, he was assigned to Task Force Phoenix, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, and served as an Afghan Border Police advisor in support of 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry). On September 8, 2009, during the Battle of Ganjgal Valley in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, Swenson displayed extraordinary heroism. Under intense enemy fire, he coordinated air support, provided first aid, and repeatedly entered the kill zone to rescue wounded Soldiers and Afghan partners. His actions were pivotal in saving numerous lives and repelling the enemy assault. Swenson's military awards include the Medal of Honor, Bronze Star (with two Oak Leaf Clusters), Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, and several campaign and service medals. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in a White House ceremony on Oct. 15, 2013, by President Barack Obama, recognizing his valor and selflessness during the battle.
Celebrate the U.S. Army's 250th Birthday
