This morning President Bush presented the nation's highest military award to a young soldier who was killed in Iraq when he threw himself on a hand grenade tossed into a Humvee and saved the four other soldiers with him in the vehicle.
Ross McGinnis of Pennsylvania was only 19 years old when he gave his life to save his fellow soldiers.
Bush said, "the Medal of Honor is the nation's highest military distinction. It's given for valor beyond anything that duty could require or a superior could command."
McGinnis' parents accepted the award. He is to be the fourth soldier to receive the Medal of Honor, for actions while serving in Iraq. McGinnis enlisted on his 17th birthday. US Army Maj. Gen. David H. Huntoon Jr. said, "He chose this path because he was a good man and an honorable man. His generosity of spirit shines bright. We salute his honor and inspiration and we remember his brilliant example of selfless service."
Shudoo
What a brave young man. I can't even imagine making a decision like he did. And what it must be like to be one of the survivors.
1It makes me think of "Saving Private Ryan". I feel for his family.
2I agree Cine. Very honorable and brave at such a young age.
3a true american hero, so brave, and so sad
4This is the most selfless act you could ever do. This is a true hero. I'm getting choked up just thinking about it. I can't even imagine having to make that choice.
5I nearly started crying when I read this. What an amazing, selfless thing to do. His parents raised a son to be proud of!
6I started tearing up reading this too - it's so sad.
7What a selfless and brave young man! Truly inspiring.
8That's amazing. It's truly humbling to know we have people of that caliber serving in our military. His family are certainly in my prayers.
9Truly brave and honorable. They raised a great man.
10Now that is a genuine hero...
11I was so sad when I heard about this story on the radio this morning... 19 years old. Truly a brave young man, and such a sad story.
12Wow, what an admirable thing to do!
13I teared up reading this article...what a selfless act of courage and bravery.
14John 15:13 - "Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."
what an amazing young man.
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