Krissy Phaserman 0 Posted November 9, 2005 The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, March 3, 1863, has awarded in the name of Congress the Medal of Honor to Sergeant First Class Paul R. Smith United States Army For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: Sergeant First Class Paul R. Smith distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with an armed enemy near Baghdad International Airport, Baghdad, Iraq on 4 April 2003. On that day, Sergeant First Class Smith was engaged in the construction of a prisoner of war holding area when his Task Force was violently attacked by a company-sized enemy force. Realizing the vulnerability of over 100 fellow soldiers, Sergeant First Class Smith quickly organized a hasty defense consisting of two platoons of soldiers, one Bradley Fighting Vehicle and three armored personnel carriers. As the fight developed, Sergeant First Class Smith braved hostile enemy fire to personally engage the enemy with hand grenades and anti-tank weapons, and organized the evacuation of three wounded soldiers from an armored personnel carrier struck by a rocket propelled grenade and a 60mm mortar round. Fearing the enemy would overrun their defenses, Sergeant First Class Smith moved under withering enemy fire to man a .50 caliber machine gun mounted on a damaged armored personnel carrier. In total disregard for his own life, he maintained his exposed position in order to engage the attacking enemy force. During this action, he was mortally wounded. His courageous actions helped defeat the enemy attack, and resulted in as many as 50 enemy soldiers killed, while allowing the safe withdrawal of numerous wounded soldiers. Sergeant First Class Smith’s extraordinary heroism and uncommon valor are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Third Infantry Division “Rock of the Marne,” and the United States Army. Nowe maybe I just didn't pay attention two and a half years ago, but I do not recall any mention in the media about any soldiers during the War On Terrorism being awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. For those who don't know, the Congressional Medal of Honor is the HIGHEST medal that can be awarded to a member of the Military, and thus it should recieve attention. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
APW 0 Posted November 9, 2005 The mainstream media will NEVER report anything positive concerning the war. It shatters the myth that the entire war is an enormous cluster**** and that U.S. and allied soliders are nothing more than target practice for insurgents with RPGs. One of the only ways to get to the many positive stories is by visiting the websites of the various branches of service, and view their media content. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Krissy Phaserman 0 Posted November 9, 2005 I actually heard about this on the History Channel, then went and found the Citation, but you do bring up a good point. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Chataeya 0 Posted November 9, 2005 Really, they need to put more positive report on the News, I think the more they would put on the better the people here would feel about it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Odie 0 Posted November 9, 2005 I don't depend on getting a my news from the mainstream news. They are baised completely. It doesn't matter if liberely or consertive. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theunicornhunter 2 Posted November 9, 2005 I did hear about this - I don't remember where but I heard about it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Krissy Phaserman 0 Posted November 10, 2005 Perhaps, with Veterans' Day this friday, I should look into this story more, and post what I've found? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites