his is a story that needs telling because it didn't get widespread notice by the news media in 2008. Petty Officer Michael Monsoor, MA2 was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously for jumping on a grenade in Iraq, giving his life to save his fellow Seals. On 29 September 2006, 25-year-old Monsoor was killed in action during operations in enemy-held territory at Ar Ramadi, Iraq. On September 8, 2008, the official ceremony of his award took place and as quoted on that day in the Summary of Action regarding the circumstances of his death:

Petty Officer Monsoor's actions could not have been more selfless or clearly intentional. Of the three SEALS on that rooftop corner, he had the only avenue of escape away from the blast, and if he had so chosen, he could have easily escaped. Instead, Monsoor chose to protect his comrades by the sacrifice of his own life. By his courageous and selfless actions, he saved the lives of his two fellow SEALs and he is the most deserving of the special recognitions afforded by awarding the Medal of Honor.

During Mike Monsoor's funeral in San Diego, as his coffin was being moved to the grave site at Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery, SEAL's were lined up on both sides
of the pallbearers route forming a column of two's, with the coffin moving up the center. As Mike's coffin passed, each SEAL, having removed their gold Tridents from their uniforms, slapped them down embedding the Trident in the wooden coffin.

COFFIN WITH TRIDENTS

THE TRIDENT
(up close)

You can read a more detailed account of Monsoor's action in the field at the Navy Site honoring him as a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Please click here to visit that site.

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