“It is impossible not to experience a sense of awe when contemplating Staff Sgt. Giunta’s courageous efforts to rescue members of his platoon in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, on Oct. 25, 2007. With nothing more than his body armor, his weapon, and his wits for protection, he repeatedly charged into a hail of enemy bullets at the risk of his own life in order to protect and retrieve his fallen comrades. In so doing, he earned a permanent place in the gallery of American heroes. It is a sign of Staff Sgt. Giunta’s profound selflessness and humility that he has repeatedly stated he is only one service member among tens of thousands, and his acts of courage ought to be considered alongside the countless others performed that night and in recent years by the members of our Armed Forces in Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere. But if Staff Sgt. Giunta can claim to be an ordinary soldier, it is only because our men and women in uniform are daily called upon to do the extraordinary, and daily answer that call. It was a true honor to have the opportunity to thank Staff Sgt. Giunta in person for his courageous service. He embodies the best that our military has to offer, he is a credit to our nation, and his heroism will never be forgotten.”

The Medal of Honor is America’s highest award for valor, and recognizes those who “distinguish (themselves) conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of (their lives), above and beyond the call of duty.”

(December 13, 2010)

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