Blog post

Historic Day for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans as New Medal of Honor Awarded
Posted by Isabel Black on July 12

IAVA released the following statement applauding the presentation of the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest military honor, to Sergeant First Class Leroy Petry for his courageous actions during combat operations in Afghanistan in May 2008:

“Today is a momentous day for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans as Sergeant First Class Petry becomes only the second living recipient of the Medal of Honor since Vietnam. At risk to his own life and limb, he demonstrated extraordinary courage and sacrifice to protect his fellow Rangers in combat,” said IAVA Founder and Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff. “Through his selflessness and perseverance, he represents the very best of our military and the highest caliber leadership that this newest generation of veterans has to offer our country.

Petry is just one man but his name should be the leading headline today in every newspaper nationwide. As one of over 44,000 troops wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan, he is putting a face on the true cost of these wars and the unique challenges that our veterans’ community will face in the decades ahead. For every American, this ceremony should be a wakeup call that the war on the homefront for veterans’ care is just beginning. Now more than ever Petry and the 2.2 million veterans of these wars need our undivided attention, support and resources so they can continue their service to our country long after these wars end.”

To learn more about the Medal of Honor and the nine veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan who have received our nation’s highest military decoration since September 11th, visit IAVA’s Hall of Heroes.