Tom Lindsay

On May 26, 2008, Sergeant First Class Leroy Petry was leading Rangers during a mission in Afghanistan's Paktya Province when his team came under heavy enemy fire while clearing a compound. Petry and another Ranger were hit by automatic weapons fire as they moved through a courtyard. Even with wounds in both legs, Petry stayed in the fight. He kept directing his men and helping move wounded Rangers to cover while the firefight continued around them. Then an enemy grenade landed near Petry and two other Rangers. There wasn't time to think it through. The grenade was close enough to kill or seriously wound everyone around it. Petry grabbed it and tried to throw it away from his fellow Rangers. The grenade detonated as it left his hand, severing his right hand and showering him with additional wounds. His actions saved the lives of the men standing beside him. What makes the story even more remarkable is that Petry didn't leave the Army after recovering. He continued to serve, reenlisted, and remained on active duty for years after receiving his injuries. In 2011, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions that day. RED Friday isn't just about remembering those who never made it home. It's also about remembering the men and women who carried the fight, paid a price, and kept serving. Today, remember Sergeant First Class Leroy Petry, and all those still carrying the scars of war long after the shooting stops.