Salvatore Giunta

Salvatore Augustine Giunta is a former United States Army soldier who became the first living person since the Vietnam War to receive the United States Armed Forces' highest decoration for valor, the Medal of Honor. He served as an infantryman and was cited for his heroic actions on October 25, 2007, during the War in Afghanistan. His quick thinking and selflessness saved the lives of several members of his squad during a fierce enemy ambush in the Korengal Valley.

Giunta enlisted in the Army in 2003 and served with the 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. Throughout his military career, he deployed twice to Afghanistan, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership, courage, and dedication under fire. He chose to leave the United States Army in June 2011 to pursue higher education and transition to civilian life.

In addition to the Medal of Honor, Giunta's distinguished military service earned him numerous decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, and multiple foreign parachutist badges. His legacy stands as a testament to the courage of the American soldier in the Global War on Terrorism.