Politics & Government

President Awards Medal of Honor to NH Soldier

"This medal, Ryan says, is an opportunity to tell our story. There was valor everywhere."

President Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to former Staff Sgt. Ryan Pitts of Nashua on July 21, 2014.

Obama, in a ceremony at the White House, recounted the courage and valor demonstrated by Pitts as he fought off the enemy trying to overrun his Army post in Afghanistan on July 13, 2008. Pitts was hit by shrapnel in the arm and in both legs, and bleeding badly.

It was a selfless, courage act of holding off the enemy onslaught to protect his fellow soldiers, the president said.

The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who "distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry above and beyond the call of duty."

Pitts is the ninth living recipient to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan.

"This medal, Ryan says, is an opportunity to tell our story. There was valor everywhere," Obama said at the ceremony.

The president said that the ceremony also pays tribute to all who served with valor that day.

Obama and Pitts also honored nine soldiers who did not make it home after that battle.



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