SSG Sal Giunta was awarded the Medal of Honor today. It has been since Vietnam that the medal has gone to a living recipient, and Sal Giunta was a perfect choice. He has been nothing but humble and self-effacing, pointing out that he was just one of many brave paratroopers that day. He is absolutely correct, but he is the one who charged the enemy and stopped them from capturing one of his compatriots.

There was a reception held by the Bravo Bulls who represent the same company (Bravo/Battle) of the 2nd of the 503rd, 173rd Airborne since the Second World War. This unit has always been called on when we need to break glass in case of war and has always delivered. SSG Giunta is one of many who have made them one of the most decorated units in the war on terror. They held a punch bowl ceremony to honor those who had given their lives for the company and then turned things over to Sal. He spent about 90 seconds on a speech before asking his fellow paratroopers to do what they do best. I got to attend thanks to the TankerBabe and I was honored and humbled. Good people, great Americans and a brilliant reason to remember why we love this country.

 
SSG Hijar, COL Bill Ostlund (Fmr CDR 2/503), SSG Giunta, The Tanker Babe

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Well deserved.