Over the years, as I exercised the most precious right of a democracy, the right of self-governance through voting, I have thanked, out loud, the names of many American heroes for their supreme sacrifice. As President Lincoln phrased it, “Those who gave their last full measure of devotion.” In the past, it was in honor of the extraordinary courage from past wars, mostly Medal of Honor recipients. This year, 2022, I chose a living recipient. One of our warriors from the Afghanistan conflict. He saved a formation of superior officers and his fellow soldiers by selflessly placing himself in front of one of the brigade commanders, then Captain Groberg rushed forward, using his body to push a suicide bomber away from the formation.
Quoting from his citation, “Captain Groberg’s immediate actions push the first suicide bomber away from the formation significantly minimized the impact of the [two] coordinated suicide bombers’ attack on the formation, saving the lives of his comrades and several senior leaders. Captain Groberg’s extraordinary heroism and selflessness above and beyond the call of duty at the risk of life are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect credit upon himself, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
I said it in the voting booth today in Midtown Manhattan and I repeat it here; “Thank you Captain Florent A. Groberg.”
I also noticed one pertinent fact that speaks loud and clear to the great experiment that is America, namely: Captain Florent A. Groberg, U.S. Army, Medal of Honor recipient was born in Poissey, France!
To read his entire MOH citation and see his picture go here: https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/florent-a-groberg
To read up on others who merit all of our adoration and respect go here: https://www.cmohs.org
Tom Avitabile | Best Selling Author, Book Coach, and Screenwriter 