Michael Monsoor to Be Honored at White House

On April 8, the White House will serve as the backdrop for a unique ceremony. For only the fourth time since September 11, 2001, a Medal of Honor will be awarded by President Bush to the family of a fallen American warrior.

Michael Monsoor grew up in Garden Grove, California. One of four children, he played high school football and enjoyed a variety of outdoor sports. He enlisted in the United States Navy in March of 2001. In 2004 he graduated from the Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL course and by April 2005 had qualified as a SEAL.

In April 2006 his unit was deployed to Iraq, the hotly contested city of Ramadi. In May, a rescue of a fellow SEAL while under fire earned him his nation's third highest award for bravery in combat.

For his overall combat performance during 11 firefights in the period of April to September 2006, he was awarded the Bronze Star with V device. His courage would be demonstrated one last time on September 29, 2006.

While manning an overwatch position with other SEALs and Iraqi Army troops, his position came under attack. An insurgent was able to throw a grenade into the position, striking Monsoor in the chest. Without hesitation, Monsoor threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing the blast with his own body. The act was fatal, but saved his teammates and the Iraqi troops from serious injury.

President Bush will award the United States military's highest award for valor in combat to Petty Officer Second Class (SEAL) Michael A. Monsoor on April 8 in a White House ceremony. Accepting the posthumous medal will be members of Monsoor's family. He is survived by his mother Sally, his father George, his sister Sara, and his two brothers James and Joseph.