CHIPS Articles: Navy and Marine Corps Medal of Honor Recipients
Navy and Marine Corps Medal of Honor Recipients
Heroes of Iraq and Afghanistan
By Department of Defense Special Report
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November 13, 2015
The Medal of Honor is the United States' highest military decoration. It has been bestowed on 3,488 men and one woman (a Civil War surgeon) since President Abraham Lincoln signed it into law on Dec. 21, 1861. It is reserved for those who are distinguished "conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States."
Medal of Honor Recipients of Iraq and Afghanistan DoD Special
Report Additional Resources
Marine Corps History Division and Medal of Honor Recipients
To learn more about U.S. Navy history, please go to the Naval History and Heritage Command website: www.history.navy.mil/ or visit the NHHC blog The Sextant.
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 Medal of Honor Recipients of Iraq and Afghanistan. DoD image
 Marine Corporal William "Kyle" Carpenter - Cpl. Carpenter was holding a rooftop security position when a hand grenade was thrown his way by insurgents. Without hesitation, Carpenter rushed toward the grenade to shield his fellow soldiers. The grenade detonated with Carpenter’s body taking the majority of the blast.
 Marine Sergeant Dakota L. Meyer - During a six hour fire fight, Marine Corps Cpl. Dakota Meyer single-handedly turned the tide of the battle, saved 36 Marines and soldiers and recovered the bodies of his fallen brothers. By his extraordinary heroism and unselfish devotion, he receives the Medal of Honor.
 Navy Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy - While suffering grave gunshot wounds and knowingly exposing himself to enemy fire, Murphy's undaunted courage, intrepid fighting spirit and inspirational devotion in the face of certain death, ultimately led to the rescue and the recovery of his fallen comrades.
 Marine Corporal Jason L. Dunham - Smothering a live hand grenade with his helmet and body, Dunham saved the lives of at least two fellow Marines. By his undaunted courage, intrepid fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty, Dunham gallantly gave his life for his country.
 Navy Petty Officer Second Class Michael A. Monsoor - Without hesitation and showing no regard for his own life, Monsoor threw himself onto a grenade hurled by an enemy fighter, smothering it to protect his teammates who were lying nearby. His courageous and selfless actions saved the lives of two fellow SEALs. |