An American Hero: Army Ranger Awarded Medal of Honor
On the battlefields of Afghanistan, U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Leroy Arthur Petry watched as a live grenade landed within feet of two fellow soldiers, wounded as they battle with Taliban insurgents. But rather than watching his brothers-in-arms die, Petry picked up the live grenade, attempting to throw it away from the wounded soliders. The grenade detonated as he threw it, amputating Petry’s right hand and leaving his body riddled with shrapnel. But he carried on, leading his troops and successfully defeating the insurgents.
Tuesday, Petry was recognized for his bravery, becoming just the second living, active duty service member to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan.
After the ceremony, Petry spoke of the honor…
Sgt. First Class Petry has completed multiple tours to Afghanistan and Iraq, totaling 28 months of deployment.
