On July 13, 2008, Sergeant Ryan Pitts and his fellow paratroopers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade found themselves under a massive attack at Vehicle Patrol Base Kahler near Wanat, Afghanistan.

 

On July 13, 2008, Sergeant Ryan Pitts and his fellow paratroopers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade found themselves under a massive attack at Vehicle Patrol Base Kahler near Wanat, Afghanistan. More than 200 enemy fighters unleashed a relentless barrage of rockets, machine-gun fire, and small-arms fire, quickly inflicting heavy casualties and leaving Pitts severely wounded by shrapnel.

Despite losing massive amounts of blood and being unable to stand, Pitts refused to abandon his position. He fought on from the ground, firing his weapon, throwing grenades at enemy fighters closing in on the outpost, and later crawling to a radio to direct supporting fire while enemy forces were close enough for him to hear their voices. His determination and courage helped prevent the observation post from being overrun and protected his fallen comrades from capture.

For his extraordinary heroism and selfless devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds, Sergeant Ryan Pitts was awarded the Medal of Honor. His actions at Wanat remain a testament to the grit, sacrifice, and warrior spirit of America's fighting men and women.