As the assault element was moving up a mountain toward
upon hearing that the lead element had sustained casualties
commandos fought up the terraced mountainside to the
Sergeant Williams arrayed his Afghan commandos to
from overrunning the position. When the Team Sergeant was
to provide buddy-aid and to move the Team Sergeant down
the sheer mountainside to the casualty collection point.
Sergeant Williams then fought and climbed his way back up
the mountainside to help defend the lead assault element
that still had several serious casualties in need of evacuation.
critical satellite radio communications. He then assisted with
moving the wounded down the near-vertical mountainside
to the casualty collection point. Noting that the collection
Williams led the Afghan commandos in a counterattack
that lasted for several hours. When helicopters arrived to
onto the helicopters while continuing to direct commando
actions enabled the patrol to evacuate wounded and dead
comrades without further casualties. Sergeant Williams’
complete disregard for his own safety and his concern for
the safety of his teammates ensured the survival of four
critically wounded soldiers and prevented the lead element
of the assault force from being overrun by the enemy.
United States Army.
STAFF SERGEANT
DAVID G BELLAVIA
Staff Sergeant David G Bellavia
distinguished himself by acts of
gallantry and intrepidity above
and beyond the call of duty on
as a squad leader in support of
Bellavia's platoon became trapped
within a room by intense
The Medal of Honor (MOH)
is the most prestigious and
highest ranked US military
award bestowed for bravery
hardest to earn.
112 VETERANS AFFAIRS 90 YEARS: Military & Wellness