03/26/2025
Today, we honor the uncommon valor of our nation’s bravest—those who’ve earned the Medal of Honor through courage beyond comprehension. With disregard for their safety, these brave men rushed toward danger, saving countless lives.
In the rugged cliffs of Shok Valley, Afghanistan, on April 6, 2008, ODA 3336 of 3rd SFG(A) was ambushed by over 200 well-armed insurgents. Outnumbered and under heavy fire, two men stood out—not for seeking glory, but for saving lives. Ron Shurer, a Special Forces medic, ran through gunfire to treat and evacuate the wounded, fighting for six hours and refusing extraction until every man was safe, while Matt Williams charged through open terrain to reach the lead element, engaging the enemy, aiding the wounded, and holding the line under intense fire. Both men earned the Medal of Honor—not just for their bravery, but for their unshakable commitment to their brothers-in-arms.
On August 28, 2013, in Afghanistan, Earl Plumlee responded to a complex attack when insurgents detonated a 400-pound car bomb and breached the perimeter of FOB Ghazni. Facing a wave of enemy fighters wearing su***de vests, Plumlee charged toward the breach armed with only a pistol, engaging insurgents at close range. Despite being wounded by shrapnel, he continued fighting—neutralizing threats, aiding wounded soldiers, and holding the line. Earl was awarded the Medal of Honor for his fearless and decisive actions under fire—a testament to true valor and battlefield leadership.
On the night of October 22, 2015, in Iraq, Pat Payne led a daring hostage rescue mission alongside Kurdish forces to free more than 70 captives from an ISIS prison. Under heavy fire, with the building in flames and time running out, Payne repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire—cutting locks, guiding hostages to safety, and going back in again and again until every man was out. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary courage, unwavering resolve, and selfless leadership.
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We’ve had the privilege of getting to know these remarkable men—their stories, service, and sacrifices. Time and again, we’re humbled by their unwavering courage, relentless dedication, and deep compassion for others and the mission that still drives them.
Today, we honor these brave men and the other 3,524 recipients for their service and sacrifice. To learn more, visit https://hubs.li/Q03dnSrQ0
