Obama awards Medal of Honor to Afghan battle hero Clinton Romesha

Shot in the arm, his base overrun, comrades dead or wounded, Army Staff Sergeant Clint Romesha rallies the survivors to beat back the Taliban and today received the nation's highest military honor.

President Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to celebrated Army veteran Clinton Romesha on Monday afternoon, making the former active duty staff sergeant just the fourth living person to receive the military’s highest honor for service in Iraq or Afghanistan.


Romesha, 31, fought back tears as Obama presented him with the medal honoring his “conspicuous gallantry” during the Battle of Kamdesh, a day-long firefight at a remote Afghan outpost near the Pakistan border in 2009.

“These men were outnumbered, outgunned, and almost overrun,” Obama said in his remarks in the White House East Room. 


Romesha was recognized for leading the charge against hundreds of Taliban fighters during an Oct. 3, 2009, siege on U.S. troops at Combat Outpost Keating, a small compound military officials considered indefensible. 

Eight American soldiers were killed and 20 were wounded in the surprise attack, making it the deadliest day for the U.S. in the war effort that year.

Romesha headed up efforts to retake the camp, risking his own life as U.S. troops were besieged by rocket-propelled grenades, machine guns, mortars and rifles.

Romesha, who served twice in Iraq, first took out a machine-gun team and then turned to a second, suffering shrapnel wounds when a grenade struck a generator he was using for cover.

Former Staff Sgt. Clinton Romesha is presented with the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama at the White House on Monday.

An official citation read at the ceremony described Romesha’s subsequent acts of valor.

"Undeterred by his injuries, Staff Sergeant Romesha continued to fight and upon the arrival of another soldier to aid him and the assistant gunner, he again rushed through the exposed avenue to assemble additional soldiers," the citation says.

“With complete disregard for his own safety, (he) continually exposed himself to heavy enemy fire as he moved confidently about the battlefield engaging and destroying multiple enemy targets.”

Previously reported: "He's always been a good kid." 

All the while, Romesha devised a strategy to secure key points of the battlefield and directed air support to eliminate a band of thirty heavily armed enemy combatants.

/

A look at heroes from a post-9/11 era of war

Romesha and his team also provided cover so three injured soldiers could make their way to an aid station. They then “pushed forward 100 meters under withering fire to recover the bodies of their fallen comrades,” according to the citation.

Romesha, a father of three and the son of a Vietnam veteran, reportedly never lost his composure during the chaotic attack, according to CNN journalist Jake Tapper, who chronicled the battle in the 2012 book "The Outpost."

'Clint is a pretty humble guy'
During his remarks, Obama recognized the lives of the eight soldiers who died at the Battle of Kamdesh, asking the parents of the fallen seated in the back of the room to stand for applause. 

But the heart of Obama's speech centered on a visibly emotional Romesha, who appeared to be fighting back tears as he looked ahead at his wife, Tammy, and three young children.

Colin Romesha, the young son of Medal of Honor recipient Clinton Romesha, finds time to explore the White house while attending a ceremony for his father on Monday.

"Clint is a pretty humble guy," Obama said. "The thing he looks forward to the most is just being a husband and a father."

Romesha is slated to be a guest of first lady Michelle Obama at the State of the Union address on Tuesday, CNN reported.

At a January news conference shortly after Obama called to inform him that he would receive the Medal of Honor, Romesha put the attention squarely on wounded friends and fallen comrades.

"I've had buddies that have lost eyesight and lost limbs," Romesha said. "I would rather give them all the credit they deserve for sacrificing so much. For me it was nothing, really. I got a little peppered, that was it."

Romesha, whom Tapper describes in his book as "an intense guy, short and wiry," lives in Minot, N.D., and works at KS Industries, an oil field construction firm.

A total of ten U.S. service members have been awarded the military's highest honor for actions in Afghanistan and Iraq, including six men who received the honor posthumously. 

The Medal of Honor is bestowed on members of the U.S. Armed Forces who display what the Army calls "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty."

Discuss this post

Jump to discussion page: 1 2 3 ... 5
Comment author avatarJGB62Restored

Obama doesn't give a rat's a** about this brave soldier. In fact, he hates him and everything he did and stands for. He's only using him for propaganda, to make himself look good (an impossible task). He'll be paraded out at the SOTU tomorrow only to try to prop up the weak commander in chief.

  • 23 votes
#1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:47 AM EST

JGB62 you are a sad and pathetic example of humanity, instead of showing your pride to the soldier, you spoil what he has accomplished.. i am a vet you and your post disgusts me.

  • 45 votes
#1.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:49 AM EST

@JGB62 You don't know anything about the POTUS or his thought process. You hate the guy, we get it. Move On we are tired of listening to this crap for the last 4 years.

  • 31 votes
#1.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:51 AM EST

JGB62: A perfect example of the saying, "There are more horses' asses in the world than there are horses".

  • 28 votes
#1.3 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:01 AM EST

What does your idea of how the President feels about him have to do with him winning the MOH?

  • 16 votes
#1.4 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:03 AM EST

I voted for Obama. Right now, I'm not the biggest fan of the president and his administration. But I have no doubt in my mind JGB, your comment is so far from the truth!

  • 21 votes
#1.5 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:06 AM EST

... hey, "JGB", what's the problem, buddy? If you served, you know that the President is simply doing his job. This is a "Medal of Honor" winner. Someone has to give it to him, to honor him on behalf of all Americans, and that somebody has to be (and, in modern times, has always been) the President of The United States of America; who, buy the way, is (or was) this brave troop's Commander in Chief. Can't we "put a sock" in the political (or is it something else, in your case?) BS, long enough to honor someone who has earned our respect and our admiration, in light of valor "...over and above the call..."? Whatever it is that you're, obviously, suffering from, well... unbecoming, given the subject of this "thread". You might want to "see somebody" about it, if you know what I mean...

  • 20 votes
#1.6 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:13 AM EST
Comment author avatarGlenn-974637Restored

A man totally lacking in honor giving a medal to a man that embodies honor. I salute you both.

SSG Clinton will get a military salute from me while I stand at attention in honor of his service.

Obama will receive a salute utilizing fewer fingers because he has demonstrated less honor and has failed repeatedly to live up to his oath of office to follow and protect the Constitution.

  • 20 votes
#1.7 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:23 AM EST
Comment author avatarJGB62Restored

Yoda, I was fine with the article, and am always in awe at the acts of bravery of the MOH recipients, but when it said he would be a guest of the first lady at the state of the union address, that just showed me, once again, that Obama is just using him to make himself look better. Just award him the medal, and go about your business, that's what "simply doing his job" would be. And to all of you who don't think we know about Obama's thought process, just ask the 4 dead guys in Bengazi how much Obama cares about our troops and the others serving. Don't be so naive!

  • 16 votes
#1.8 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:25 AM EST

JGB, none of the "guys" killed in Benghazi were in the military. Don't you think if he felt he was being used as a political pawn, he would just decline the invitation to the State of the Union Speech? How does it make the President look better?

  • 4 votes
#1.9 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:28 AM EST

JGB - why dont you than point out the use of 9/11 first reponders used by GWB in excatly the same way, or how about Afghan voters, or military personnle. Presidents have used people like this for political purposes since they started televising the State of the Union.

Oh and for all those who use the term win the MoH - they earn it, winning impleis it is a prize, it is not.

  • 7 votes
#1.10 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:33 AM EST

... I understand what I think you might be feeling JGB; and, perhaps, why you feel the way you seem to about this particular President. I also appreciate and accept your right to your opinions, and that you took the time to reply. What I don't understand is your choice (and it was a choice) to take the "low road", relative to what seems to be your interpretation of the motive(s) behind the President and First Lady's decision to invite this particular soldier to the "State of The Union". You seem to be implying that there is something, somehow, sinister, or self-serving, afoot, here. To me, this gesture couldn't have been more fitting, more appropriate, or more timely, given the circumstances. Finally. I'm not sure what the President's "thought process", whatever that may mean to you, has to do with "4 dead guys in Bengazi". But, alas, it's probably not that important, in the grand scheme of things. Just my opinion... Have a great day, today!

  • 4 votes
#1.11 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:53 AM EST

raddave you are so off base that it is sad. You said "none of the guys killed in Benghazi were in the military". What do you call the US Navy as in two Navy Seals? Please engage your brain next time before starting your mouth....

  • 5 votes
#1.12 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:53 AM EST

NEITHER one was a SEAL, they were both retired from the Navy. They were working for a security contractor, in other words, they were mercs.

  • 7 votes
#1.13 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:56 AM EST

Bring them home NOW.

  • 1 vote
#1.14 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:02 PM EST

JGB62 - Troll

  • 6 votes
#1.15 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:17 PM EST

THANK YOU>>SSG ROMESHA..courage,strength,pride,honor....and i'm not gonna let these motherf.uckers kill me or my boys..right on!

  • 4 votes
#1.16 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:25 PM EST

JGB62

Yoda, I was fine with the article, and am always in awe at the acts of bravery of the MOH recipients, but when it said he would be a guest of the first lady at the state of the union address, that just showed me, once again, that Obama is just using him to make himself look better. Just award him the medal, and go about your business, that's what "simply doing his job" would be.

Ahh, so when BUSH did with our veterans or survivors from 9/11, was he just doing his job? Was he doing it to make himself look better?

Once again, further proof that Obama is held to a higher standard then the previous POTUS. Sad when the first comment on this article isn't to THANK the person that served their country and attack Obama.

And to all of you who don't think we know about Obama's thought process, just ask the 4 dead guys in Bengazi how much Obama cares about our troops and the others serving. Don't be so naive!

Let's ask the 54 MURDERED Americans in 12 embassy attacks. How about the 100,000+ Dead Iraqis, or the 5,000+ dead americans in Iraq? How about the 1.3 TRILLION we had to borrow from China to pay for it.

Yeah.. once again, Obama held to a higher standard then BUSH.

To this individual and all Americans who put on that uniform.. THANK YOU for your service to this nation. It's not forgotten and I appreciate your numerous sacrifices, so that I could live in this country.

  • 12 votes
#1.17 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:32 PM EST

In a way, the president doesn't actually decide who gets or doesn't get the Medal of Honor. He is, though, the person who presents it. What makes this medal so difficult to get is that first, not only do you have to perform brave acts in the heat of battle at a risk to your own life, there is also a requirement for there to be a certain number of witnesses to testify to your bravery and someone to put you up for the award. Then it has to be approved all the way through the Chain of Command until it finally reaches the president's desk for signing. As you can imagine, the witnesses are the hardest part to this award since in most cases, none or few are left alive to give a testimonial of your actions.

  • 3 votes
#1.18 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:48 PM EST

@JGB62

What makes you any different then? You are using this incident to spout your own baseless rant against Obama.

  • 2 votes
#1.19 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 7:18 PM EST

Why is it when ANYONE makes a statement against that racist in the White House, the the liberals always spout off about what President Bush did, or didn't do, as if what BHO is doing to the US is justified???

When are you going to hold BHO as accountable for his actions as you would have President Bush? Why are you so hate filled at what President Bush did but are so willingly able to give BHO a pass?

Do you hate the United States of Amierica THAT much? You may not agree with the way Preisdent Bush ran our Country, but does that give BHO the right to screw it up now?

  • 4 votes
#1.20 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 7:21 PM EST

Glen 974637: Very well said!!

'A man totally lacking in honor giving a medal to a man that embodies honor"

I won't Salute Obama period, he has done nothing to earn it unless you want to count being re-elected by 51.1% of those who voted. He has failed miserably as a President.

I look forward to the day he leaves office and goes back to something I believe he can do correctly…..being a good father and husband.

  • 2 votes
#1.21 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 8:46 PM EST

52.8%... even fox admitted the margin was larger than 2%.

  • 3 votes
#1.22 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:44 PM EST

jgb62 --- i'm sure you would rather be sitting with rep. stockman of texas and highly decorated vietnam war hero ted nugent.

  • 2 votes
#1.23 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:21 PM EST

I was in the Army for 12 years and still have a hard time watching Obama put medals on deserving, honorable men who must serve under him. I don't hate the guy. I just don't have very much respect for our President.

Face it liberals, the military is a necessary evil for you, an organization to be tolerated.

I love the military!!! So watching Obama give out a few medals while slowing tearing the military just turns my stomach.

    #1.24 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 1:16 AM EST

    The only thing that can make this better is Dr. Ben Carson giving him the medal.

    DR. BEN CARSON FOR PRESIDENT lets get Owebama out there if the nation wants a black man to be President, here is a true American Hero, and already has my vote that is until its changed or the dead out vote me. Either way he is my man for the job from now on!!

      #1.25 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 2:39 AM EST
      Reply

      Congrats to SSG Clinton Romesha you are what makes America strong and proud! We as a Nation thank you for you devotion and dedication

      Cpl Runcik

      • 40 votes
      #2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:47 AM EST

      Great bravery in yet another useless never ending war, just like Vietnam... so sad... so much human suffering for nothing... :(

      • 9 votes
      #2.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:14 PM EST

      You can thank the bush IDIOTS for that.

      • 4 votes
      #2.7 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:16 PM EST

      Jam2003--can't see who or what your #2.7 is in reference to, and far be it from me to defend that idiot Bush, but you DO know that 'Bush's war in Afghanistan' lasted from 2002 to 2008, (6 years) and 'OBAMA's war in Afghanistan' has lasted from 2009-at least 2014, which is 5, and in Obama's 5 years, 2/3 or the American deaths in Afghanistan have occured?

      I mean, you do know that beginning on Jan. 21, 2009, Obama was CIC, and had the power to GET us out of Afghanistan?

      Just sayin'.

      • 6 votes
      #2.8 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 6:03 PM EST

      That whole company should get medals and the fricken stupid a$$ed brass that put them in that undefendable location should be court-martialed, tarred and feathered, and then put back into that same outpost for a year....I got so mad watching that 60 min. story my wife threatened to shut the show off if i didn't quit swearing...I was in a similiar situation in vietnam in 69...my stomach still knots up when i think about it...F-CK!!!!

      Jam2003! eat sh-t and bark at the moon...you moron.

      • 11 votes
      #2.9 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 6:16 PM EST

      Clinton Romesha..................Congratulations and thankyou for serving the United States with so much respect for your fellow soldiers. The actions of this soldier should be the only conversation on this blog today. Making political comments is not the place or the time right now. Either you honor our brave soldiers for doing their jobs as an American should or you dishonor yourself by changing the focus on your selfish need for attention.

      • 11 votes
      #2.10 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 7:05 PM EST

      First and foremost, congratulations for your hard earned reward. Your selfless bravery saved many that fateful day.

      Nothing warms my heart more than seeing a four star general snap to attention when a MoH NCO in their Class A's walks into the room.

      • 6 votes
      #2.11 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 8:29 PM EST

      Dedication to what? Fighting illegal and useless wars?

        #2.12 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 8:58 PM EST

        Jimboza:

        Soldiers don't make policy, they just execute them. While I also do not agree with the wars, as a vet, I'm really proud of this guy. To be honest, my eyes got a little "misty" reading this story.

        • 10 votes
        #2.13 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 9:32 PM EST

        McReal.................ditto..........................I post plenty on antiwar themes....this guy deserves the attention....not you or anyone else......

        • 1 vote
        #2.14 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 2:18 AM EST

        It breaks my heart to see soldiers come home hurt or worse, and for a 'for profit' war and they are the ones that lose so much. They, their families, and friends all affected for a lifetime. I salute you sir and commend your bravery, but lets get our men home before we are locked into a conflict what will literally bring us all into war.

        GOD BLESS OUR SOLDIERS who, when knowingly and defend our divided nation, are willing to die for our freedoms...THANK YOU!!

        • 1 vote
        #2.15 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 2:47 AM EST
        Comment author avatarEmery Evansvia Facebook

        This is the second time ive watched Obama Present the Medal Of Honor, and neither time did he follow the Correct Military Procedure. One of the so called "Perks" of receiving the MOH is that ALL officers no matter WHAT rank are required to salute you. Neither time did the CIC show the required respect. He should present the medal then step back and salute the recipient. But Obama doesnt know what respect IS, i bet he doesnt even know how to properly stand at attention. These Brave men deserve MUCH better.

          #2.17 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 8:02 AM EST

          Emery, quit your whining about nothing. This kid, or the other nine recipients of the Iraq/Afghan theaters, wouldn't be receiving the MOH if it wasn't for the thoughtful actions of GW Bush, DICK Cheney, Rumsfeld, and the plethora of other AWOL or non-service cowards that sent our kids to fight their oil wars!

          So, stuff your protocol BS, get back to the line and do your duty, desk jockey!

            #2.18 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 8:11 AM EST

            Good Grief .... forget the politics for crying out loud...... yap yap yap .... rediculous.

            That was a remarkable story of a day long effort under intense fire ...... this is not boys own comic stuff, its real life .... Kudos to the man, incredible bravery under fire.

            • 1 vote
            #2.20 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 8:59 PM EST
            Reply

            Congress "Awards" the CMH. The President "presents" the award. Barack Obama doesn't award any Congressional awards!

            • 20 votes
            Reply#3 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:50 AM EST

            Yeah - it never ceases to amaze me that the press gets that wrong pretty much every time. I wonder why the Congress does not bestow the award? I know the POTUS is Commander in Chief, but I don't see any harm in Congress bestowing an award.

            As for Romesha, if you are out there reading this, what you did IS A BIG DEAL. While several of your fellow soldiers died or were wounded during the fighting, YOU kept more of them alive and successfully defended the outpost, your friends, the United States of America and our allies. THAT IS A BIG DEAL. Thank you for your service, get used to an odd feeling, Admirals, Generals and other dignitaries are now going to be saluting YOU.

            • 26 votes
            #3.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:54 AM EST

            Congress does not award the MOH, the President does, in the "name of Congress". it is NOT the Congressional Medal of Honor, it is the Medal of Honor and the President signs the orders.

            • 19 votes
            #3.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:06 AM EST

            As his commanding officer the President awards the Metal of Honor on behalf of Congress. In other words, Congress has given the President permission to award in their name.

            • 8 votes
            #3.3 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:16 AM EST

            A medal given to a man that embodies honor. I salute you.

            SSG Clinton will get a military salute from me while I stand at attention in honor of his service.

            • 15 votes
            #3.4 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:42 AM EST

            Congress does not award the Medal of Honor. The president "awards" the medal in the name of congress to U.S. military personnel. It has been, in the past, erroneously called the Congressional Medal of Honor. However, the proper name for the medal is simply the Medal of Honor.

            • 5 votes
            #3.5 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:54 PM EST

            It's NOT called the "Congressional" Medal of Honor. It's simply the Medal of Honor. It is awarded by the President of the United States in the name of Congress.

            There are two distinct protocols for awarding the Medal of Honor. The first and most common is nomination and approval through the chain of command of the service member. The second method is nomination by a member of the U.S. Congress, generally at the request of a constituent, and the subsequent approval via a special Act of Congress. In both cases, the Medal of Honor is presented by the President on behalf of, and in the name of, the Congress.

            One more thing: a service member does not "win" the Medal of honor. It is not a competition. One receives or is awarded the Medal of Honor.

            • 9 votes
            #3.7 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 5:53 PM EST

            The President awards it, and presents it in the name of Congress.

            The President may award, and present in the name of Congress, a medal of honor of appropriate design, with ribbons and appurtenances, to a person who while a member of the Army (naval service; Navy and Marine Corps) (Air Force) (Coast Guard), distinguished himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.[

            • 2 votes
            #3.8 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 8:13 PM EST

            Google is a wonderful tool, PG Waddell. Try googling "Medal of Honor"...

              #3.9 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 8:25 PM EST

              Let see for those ignorants.

              IT IS the Congressional Medal of Honor. Is awarded by the Congress and bestowed by the POTUS on behalf of the Congress.

              http://www.cmohs.org/

              Please read before.....

                #3.10 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 9:06 PM EST

                Ands a soldier does not "win" the MOH.

                • 1 vote
                #3.11 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 9:57 PM EST

                Martin

                Your own link shows it is the "Medal of Honor." Read the body, not the name of the Society.

                • 1 vote
                #3.12 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:59 PM EST

                Waddel, if you're alive it is the presidents job. If the other way you get public acknowledgemeent. There are several levels of awards. the higher the award the higher ranking the person has to be to authorize it. Unless they changed the Regulations, (for Example) you have a formation and are told to wear all your awards and you are wearing the Medal of Honer, that the inspecting officer upon seeing your award must salute you.

                  #3.13 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 5:15 AM EST
                  Reply

                  ...congratulations, "troop"! You've earned it! You are who you are, you've done what you swore you would do, if called upon to do it, and it just doesn't get any better than that! Thank you for your service, and for watching our "six".

                  • 10 votes
                  Reply#4 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:52 AM EST

                  Want to know how someone is truly deserving of this type of award? It when you see something like this

                  "With complete disregard for his own safety, [he] continually exposed himself to heavy enemy fire as he moved confidently about the battlefield engaging and destroying multiple enemy targets," Romesha's citation says.

                  followed by this:

                  "I've had buddies that have lost eyesight and lost limbs," Romesha said in a January news conference, shortly after Obama called to inform him that he would receive the honor. "I would rather give them all the credit they deserve for sacrificing so much. For me it was nothing, really. I got a little peppered, that was it."

                  There is just something special about a humble hero that greatly increases my respect for them.

                  • 12 votes
                  #4.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:52 PM EST

                  Nobama can't grasp those definitions, he doesn't have ahumble bone in his body, all he has ever done is bag groceries at a food bank....pathetic a$$hole.

                  • 2 votes
                  #4.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 6:21 PM EST

                  Why aren't you the president coyote.....? Simple...NOT GOOD ENOUGH...and did not try running for the office. You didn't get your way last election........like a kid at the checkout crying because mommy said no candy.

                  I understand the nightmare dreams of war never end for many of us....peace......

                  • 4 votes
                  #4.3 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 7:12 PM EST

                  Swore to do what? Fight useless, illegal, and dangerous wars, and make the country less safe? That's is not what the army of country swore to do!

                  • 1 vote
                  #4.4 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 9:00 PM EST

                  jimboza...just what is a soldier sworn to do a55hole?

                  • 1 vote
                  #4.5 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:24 PM EST
                  Reply
                  Comment author avatarSpine BobExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

                  I have noticed that Obama has not awarded any of his cronies the Presidential Medal of Freedom, unlike his predecessor, Bush who handed them out like candy to reassure himself (Bremmer, Franks, Tenet, etc....)

                  Very refreshing to see.

                  • 14 votes
                  #5 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:53 AM EST
                  Comment author avatarmas098Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

                  SpineBob! You are proof that dimocraps can make anything,even honorable acts of soldiers,into something political.Go fix the tin foil in your cap,take your meds and go for a 6 hour nappy.You should feel much better when you awaken.Ahole!Never miss a chance to miss a chance,huh!

                  • 8 votes
                  #5.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:10 AM EST
                  Comment author avatarSteve-885087Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

                  Yet he was awarded the Nobel. Maybe it was for his improved drone accuracy. He only kills bad guys in a sovereign nation. I guess the requirements have changed.

                  Just kidding, I am being facetious. I know it was given to him for his outstanding community organizing efforts in Chicago to end the violence.

                  • 3 votes
                  #5.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:13 AM EST

                  It takes quiet a bit of courage to be awarded this medal,something,SpinelessBob,i know you don't posess!

                  • 4 votes
                  #5.3 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:15 AM EST

                  I found it very refreshing that not one of his current work mates even knew anything about this until he asked the boss for a couple of days off because he was being presented the CMHonor and needed to go to washington!

                  • 7 votes
                  #5.4 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:37 AM EST

                  Personally I think KJGB62 is just as bad and political. AI also find it hard to compare the MoH to the Presidential Medal of Freedom - I dont care who awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom it is nothing much more than a poltical thank ou. It is the closest we come to the anual awards list in the UK. (Oh and just to let you all know I am a democrat)

                  • 1 vote
                  #5.5 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:37 AM EST

                  Oh mas098. You write that post about dimocraps making anything political. OK, fine. Did you read JCB62's post (right on top)? The one that insulted the chief dimocrap for giving the award? Isn't that political by a non-dimocrap?

                  Sign Me,

                  An Out And Proud Dimocrap

                  • 3 votes
                  #5.6 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:44 AM EST

                  I am very proud of your service to our country. And thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting your life on the line for all of us just as I did 40 years ago.and many others have before ,and will in the future: But its to bad such an honor has to be bestowed upon you by such a deceitful american hating person.

                  • 4 votes
                  #5.7 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 1:13 PM EST

                  I would imagine after looking at the performance of his own cronies, he felt none merited the recognition. See Obama can make good decisions once and a while.

                  • 1 vote
                  #5.8 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:48 PM EST

                  Inspired by pro USA 1962 and other comments: It is thoughtless comments about the love and patriotism of others who differ in opinion that saddens me when I think of what people sacrifice to protect the rights for people to make thoughtless comments. No person; Democrat, Republican, or other that seeks the Office of President hates America. I have been a life long Democrat and it infuriates me when I hear other Democrats talk about Republicans as people who are bigoted, greedy and blood thirsty as much as I hate Republicans refer to Democrats as socialist, American hating, and elitist.

                  Where in our political discord is it okay to refer to those of difference as the "Devil Incarnate". SSG Romesha did not perform such heroic acts for Republicans, Democrats, Gays, Jews, or Catholics but for all who are free. Let all who are free honor him and the countless others who have sacrificed by acting with some civility that is as important to the preservation of democracy itself as is our ability to speak our mind. His actions are far braver and more honorable than our own when he fights preserving the ideals of America and we fail to do the easy part and live up to them.

                  Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for your Country, community and family SSG Clinton Romesha. Thank you pro USA 1962 and the others who served our Country and have responded to this article. Thank you to all who have come home, will come home and could not come home. I hope that I and others will remember to be better citizens and more honorable countrymen ourselves in the future where we can. Maybe we who do not serve simply sacrifice our ego for a few moments of understanding others as a start.

                  • 11 votes
                  #5.9 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:56 PM EST

                  IowaGuy - thank you for expressing your thoughts so politely and emphatically. I appreciate that you made a strong point without stooping to name calling.

                  • 5 votes
                  #5.10 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 4:09 PM EST

                  ... "Iowa Guy", thank you; your words made my day. It's good to know there are still Americans out there who love and respect this country, "warts & all"...

                  • 4 votes
                  #5.11 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 4:45 PM EST

                  Spineless bob...why would any get a medal? all they've done is allowed weapons to go across the border and kill a border cop, sat on his/their hand while 4 americans got murdered in libya, dragged this country down so far morally, ethically and finacially that we may never recover...and you think they should get medals!

                  • 3 votes
                  #5.12 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 6:24 PM EST

                  mas098 - You have a nice looking dog. Boxers are generally really good dogs. I hope you are more pleasant to him/her than you appear to be here on this thread.

                  • 1 vote
                  #5.13 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 7:59 PM EST

                  mas098, before attacking Democrats for turning this into a partisan attack, you should have read coyotehunter's comment above. Seems there is enough blame to go around on all sides.

                  • 1 vote
                  #5.14 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 8:19 PM EST

                  Thanks to all those who serve their country, Democrat, Republican, Independents, Gays, Hispanics Asians,etc., etc. , etc. When it comes to defending this country from outside forces , we are all one.

                  • 1 vote
                  #5.15 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 8:25 PM EST

                  ProUsa1962:

                  And you don't hate nobody???? Look at yourself in the mirror before you criticize somebody else.....

                    #5.16 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 9:15 PM EST

                    this man did what he did for his fellow solders, no more no less, his honor is beyond reproach, his love for his country and the things that really matter ......priceless.

                    • 1 vote
                    #5.17 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 1:49 AM EST
                    Reply

                    If you have not read The Outpost, I highly recommend it; there are few books about Iraq and Afghanistan that you get an understanding of what soldiers do for this country like The Outpost and Sean Purnell's Outlaw Platoon. Mr. Romesha stood tall in Kamdesh as did many of the leaders before him who gave their life attempting counter insurgency in the area. Pakistan has never been an ally to the US!

                    • 5 votes
                    Reply#6 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 10:53 AM EST

                    CNN had a Special last night for s/sgt Romesha which tells how this guy performed under intense combat. He deserves the thanks of a greatful nation. I hope his award today for the MOH is covered by all the TV Networks.

                    • 11 votes
                    Reply#7 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:00 AM EST

                    Saw that flick also. Whomever dreamed up the idea of putting that outpost at the bottom of the hill probably never had to stay late to defend it. The grunt on the ground looked around and thought 'Someone fu'd again'. And as usual, what he thought was ignored, because he's just a grunt.

                    Here's to all the grunts who had to give their lives for all the bad ideas that those in authority came up with.

                    • 13 votes
                    #7.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:21 AM EST

                    There was alos an excellent report on his actions this morning on NPR.

                    • 3 votes
                    #7.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:38 AM EST

                    bobmck: Here here.

                    • 5 votes
                    #7.3 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:45 AM EST

                    I don't want to take anything away from this great individual. I remember Robert Howard who served during the Vietnam war. He was the most decorated soldier in American history. When he received the Medal of Honor, not one media outlet carried the story. Only NBC noted his death, a couple of years ago. God bless both of these.

                    • 9 votes
                    #7.4 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:13 PM EST

                    2/11/13 Did ya notice that SSG CLINT ROMESHA kept apologizing to The Fallen & Their Families cuz He could not Save them All. He was fighting back the tears & his lip was trembling. That is PTSD & that will be with Him for the Rest of His Life. & he said exactly What He Believes "I was only Doing My Job" any other Infantry GRUNT would do the exact same thing.

                    Where do we find young Men such as this ? Where do they come from ?

                    Ordinary Men performing Extraordinary Courage under Fire now THAT is BRAVERY.

                    You have EARNED THIS SSG CLINT ROMESHA ! A Infantry GRUNT ! Stand Tall & Be Proud !

                    SPW in Alaska Drafted July 1969 Airborne All the Way

                    • 10 votes
                    #7.5 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:33 PM EST

                    Unfortunately his service and bravery will have little coverage, we can't honor a hero properly and have the news networks cut into Grammy lowlights.

                    • 3 votes
                    #7.6 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:23 PM EST

                    Steve Wright your comments are just what be said!It must have been tough to single SSG Romesha out from the others for the MOH. Perhaps it was due the fact that he constantly would run through hell fire from bldg to bldg checking on troops and directing and redirecting themand stiring them up to keep up fight. I understand Sarg voiced that all should recive the MOH,The Comander and Chief Obama called out the medals/ribbons awarded to the other troops.If I remember they were just one rank below the MOH,if not it should be They desearve it!If I should find myself infont of these men I shall salute them.I know they did what they were trained to do and more,they said they would follow the orders given them, without question they did! Thank God the USA still has men like these!

                    • 1 vote
                    #7.7 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 12:25 AM EST
                    Reply

                    I grew up with and knew someone who was awarded the Medal of Honor,postumusly, for his bravery in Viet Nam.God gless his and the souls of all warriors lost in wars protecting America.Way to go Doug!

                    • 5 votes
                    Reply#8 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:05 AM EST

                    Congratulations to SSG Clinton Romesha, for his service, his sacrifices and his leadership. As a Combat Vietnam Veteran it is an honor for us to have a new fellow Ivy soldier receive the Medal of Honor. The last Icy 4th Infantry soldier to receive the Medal of Honor was Cpl. Thomas W. Bennett [POSTHUMOUSLY] who was the only conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor in Vietnam for action in Chu Pa Region, Republic of Vietnam, 9-11 February 1969
                    On a side note to those who feel that it is necessary to add your political rant...Go F yourself

                    • 20 votes
                    Reply#9 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:08 AM EST

                    Michael Boxer: I couldn't agree more. To everything you said, especially the last sentence.

                    • 4 votes
                    #9.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:46 AM EST

                    Mike Boxer, 2/11/13 Welcome HOME SOLDIER & THANK YOU for YOUR SERVICE. My Oldest Brother Capt Jim Wright served w/ the 4th I D in the Nam 2 tours

                    1967/68 then 1968/69 Pleiku,VietNam. XO for a LRRP Unit .Died in a VA Hospital in Texas from Cancer & exposure to Agent Orange. He had lots of company in that Agent Orange Wing of the Hospital.

                    No Purple Heart, No Name on the Wall just another Agent Orange Casuality. I Miss & Love My Brother.

                    Thanks for Listening SPW in Alaska Drafted July 1969 Airborne All the Way

                    • 9 votes
                    #9.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:46 PM EST

                    Steve thank you for your kind words and also thank you for your service. My deepest condolences on the loss of your brother Capt. Jim Wright. Please accept my invitation to join us on FB page for Ivy Dragoons and also befriend me on FB. I will post this about the passing of your brother there.

                    • 5 votes
                    #9.3 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:17 PM EST

                    Please accept my appreciation also, SSG Romesha. I too, am a VietNam Combat Vet, BS/V, so I know that you were "just doing your job" as you said. That means that you were putting the lives of your troops in a higher priority than your own. When a man would lay down his own life for the safety of his soldiers and to secure the dead and wounded, just goes to show just how great some people really are! This entire nation owes many thanks to all pur veterans, especially Medal of Honor receipients

                    • 3 votes
                    #9.4 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 5:38 PM EST

                    steve sorry about the loss of your brother my oldest brother was in pleiku 68/69 also

                    • 2 votes
                    #9.5 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 6:20 PM EST

                    ... and the "crippled, one-eyed, nag" your aunt Sadie's ugly half-sister road in on! Couldn't have said it better, Michael. The "jarheads", "grunts", and "squids", don't start the s*it, they finish it, if the brass will only untie their hands and let 'em do what they're trained to do. Thanks...

                    • 1 vote
                    #9.6 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 6:24 PM EST
                    Reply

                    My deepest gratitude for SSgt Romesha's courage and the lives he helped save. No doubt their families are eternally grateful for his actions I know there are many other men who have also given their very best, shown just as much courage in the face of the most horrific scenes and times of battle. Yet who for what ever reason, will never be awarded the medal of honor. Including those who have died, giving their full true measure beyond all others, including all the years of life with its promises. Such are the ways of war. But never the less, our country owes an eternal debt of gratitude and honor for such sacrifices.Humbly we acknowledge it in times like this and won't forget these gallant heroes. The finest and most noble of our generation.

                    • 5 votes
                    Reply#10 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:08 AM EST

                    Can't say it any better than that.

                    • 1 vote
                    #10.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 5:40 PM EST
                    Reply

                    The man did great things and deserves a medal, why do people insist on making it political and taking away credit? Let him have his moment of honor it is deserved. They who complain are just jealous that there is no way they would ever act the way this man did.

                    • 7 votes
                    Reply#11 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:11 AM EST

                    Maybe half of the people who make this story of a Man serving his country really want to serve in the military they are Jealous, Maybe the Congerss of the United States should bring the draft back so that they could serve like they really want!!! Only 22 Post On this great story of a Soldier winning the Medal of Honor..

                    • 2 votes
                    #11.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:20 AM EST
                    Reply

                    I think the men and women in the services would rather have a one way ticket home. Lots of Vets around with lots of medals on street corners looking for a little help.

                    • 1 vote
                    Reply#12 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:11 AM EST

                    ... not sure about the first part of your comment, "77"; today's troops are awesome. Lest we forget, they are all volunteers, every man and woman "jack-of-'em". A seemingly disproportionate number of them keep going back (for more) time-after-fearful-time, because that's who they are; they are professionals, in every sense of the word. When I was in, a million-and-a-half years ago, if you could spell your name, see your feet (without glasses) and touch your toes, without falling on your face (just kiddin',"ole timers"), you had a choice: you could either wait until your number came-up, or you could volunteer and (sorta) choose your "poison". On my 17th. B'Day, 1962, I volunteered (for the first time) and the rest, as they say, is history. As to the second half of your comment, you are absolutely right!! As a life-long Democrat and a stalwart Obama supporter, I don't understand why this administration hasn't done a better job (or maybe I've just missing the really "good stuff") with the "nuts & bolts" of veteran's affairs administration. I read somewhere, recently, that it is currently taking between 9 & 12 months for the "committee" to render the final results of a PEB. Hell I was in and out of mine, and on the bus for home. with a VA card in my pocket. in less than 90 days of my release from the hospital. And there were a hellava lot more of us coming out of military hospitals, back then, than now. As to the job situation.... well... I'll leave that one for another thread. My point is, if you're getting the idea that I agree with what you've written (and what's not being done) about vets with medals on "street corners", you got that right!

                    • 1 vote
                    #12.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 5:26 PM EST
                    Reply

                    Thank you for your service to our nation s/sgt Romesha.

                    • 5 votes
                    Reply#13 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:19 AM EST

                    That's a big Hooah!!! Well deserved...

                    • 6 votes
                    Reply#14 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:23 AM EST

                    Really? Were you there?

                      #14.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 9:01 PM EST

                      That's the Army battle-cry. Hooah!

                      For those not in the know: It's a way of praising something another soldier has said or done. In this instance, a display of solidarity with a fellow soldier is completely admirable and fitting.

                      It's like a secret handshake, except its not a secret.

                      I always felt it was over used but this is probably the time to use it if there was ever a good time to use it.

                        #14.2 - Tue Feb 12, 2013 12:08 AM EST
                        Reply

                        I salute you sir. You and your brothers in arms are truly an inspiration.

                        • 2 votes
                        Reply#15 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:28 AM EST

                        For me, this is top of front page news; anything less is disrespectful. It takes more than an economy to turn a country around.

                        • 3 votes
                        Reply#16 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:29 AM EST

                        Congratulations and thank you Mr. Romesha! I am sure "a little peppered" is a huge understatement!

                        • 3 votes
                        Reply#17 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:31 AM EST

                        From a veteran, Thank you for your service, your bravery and you fortitude. Don't think much of POTUS, but this is not political. STAND TALL

                        • 5 votes
                        Reply#18 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:34 AM EST

                        and so you had to make a comment. couldn't you just say thank you and be done. This as you said was not political until you made it so.

                        • 8 votes
                        #18.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:43 AM EST
                        Reply

                        God bless and god keep you and yours

                        • 4 votes
                        Reply#19 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:39 AM EST

                        HOOAH Staff Sergeant Romesha!!!

                        • 4 votes
                        Reply#20 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:41 AM EST

                        Steelah Mama!!? Hell Yeah You Go MAMA!!

                        • 3 votes
                        #20.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:19 PM EST

                        In the words of Myron Cope, "Yoy and double-yoy!"

                        Thanks for your service SSGT Romesha.

                        • 3 votes
                        #20.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 4:17 PM EST
                        Reply

                        Thank You.

                        • 3 votes
                        Reply#21 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:42 AM EST
                        Reply

                        Sgt. Romesha may think anyone else would have done what he did in his position, but the fact that he's getting the Medal of Honor says otherwise.

                        "A little peppered " . . . I nominate that for understatement of the year!

                        • 5 votes
                        Reply#22 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:49 AM EST

                        Very proud of the staff sargeant. You are well deserving of this award. Congratulations and good luck.

                        • 4 votes
                        Reply#23 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:52 AM EST
                        Comment author avatarDuffer 62Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

                        A great honor for a true hero - it's just too bad the memory will be soiled by the person of the presenter!

                          Reply#24 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 11:57 AM EST

                          How will it be soiled?

                          • 2 votes
                          #24.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:02 PM EST

                          Another douchebag trying to score political points.

                          Go to your Country club duffer and duff your way to the clubhouse.

                          • 1 vote
                          #24.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 2:28 PM EST
                          Reply

                          Congratulations on a job well done. There are few people left in this world that know what honor and integrity are all about. You have set the bar for others high. You are a true hero. I am retired from the Air Force and I salute you as well as others here.

                          • 2 votes
                          Reply#25 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:03 PM EST

                          and sir I will stand by and salute with you.

                          • 2 votes
                          #25.1 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:39 PM EST

                          Salute from another vet!!!!

                          • 3 votes
                          #25.2 - Mon Feb 11, 2013 12:49 PM EST
                          Reply
                          Jump to discussion page: 1 2 3 ... 5
                          You're in Easy Mode. If you prefer, you can use XHTML Mode instead.
                          As a new user, you may notice a few temporary content restrictions. Click here for more info.