IV
112th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. CON. RES. 27
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
September 26, 2011
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
Honoring the service of Sergeant First Class Leroy Arthur Petry, a native of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the second living recipient of the Medal of Honor since the Vietnam War.
Whereas Sergeant First Class Leroy Arthur Petry of the United States Army, a native of Santa Fe, New Mexico, was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Obama on July 12, 2011;
Whereas the Medal of Honor is the highest honor awarded to members of the Armed Forces for valor in combat;
Whereas
the official citation awarding the Medal of Honor to Sergeant First Class Petry
states that then-Staff Sergeant Petry distinguished himself by acts of
gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of
duty in action with an armed enemy in the vicinity of Paktya Province,
Afghanistan, on May 26, 2008
;
Whereas Sergeant First Class Petry joins an elite group of Medal of Honor recipients dating back to the Civil War;
Whereas Sergeant First Class Petry has continued a long tradition of military service to the United States by New Mexicans, dating back to the defense of the Western United States during the Civil War, and followed by participation in every major war fought by the United States;
Whereas Sergeant First Class Petry is the second living recipient of the Medal of Honor since the Vietnam War;
Whereas Sergeant First Class Petry fought with bravery and, despite wounds to both of his legs, had the courage and quick thinking needed to save the lives of his fellow soldiers by throwing back an enemy grenade and losing his right hand when the grenade detonated shortly after he released it;
Whereas the actions of Sergeant First Class Petry represent the highest values of the Army, the Rangers, and the United States;
Whereas Sergeant First Class Petry has consistently demonstrated humility and dedication to his fellow soldiers;
Whereas Sergeant First Class Petry, who overcame a troubled youth and found the strength to turn his life around and dedicate himself to serving the United States, is an example to all people who are struggling in the United States; and
Whereas the brave actions of Sergeant First Class Petry, as well as his modesty and selfless service, stand as the embodiment of the best attributes of the people of the United States: Now, therefore, be it
That Congress—
honors the service and sacrifice of Sergeant First Class Leroy Arthur Petry of the United States Army and his family; and
encourages the people of the United States to recognize the valor, heroism, and dedication to the United States exhibited by Sergeant First Class Petry.
Passed the Senate September 23, 2011.
Nancy Erickson,
Secretary