Senior Chief Petty Officer Edward Byers received the Medal of Honor at a ceremony that took place in the White House on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, according to USA Today.
Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Byers is only the sixth Navy SEAL to ever receive a Medal of Honor, the highest honor you can receive according to USA Today. This award was presented by President Obama to this 36-year-old Navy Seal for his honorable actions and display of military valor during an operation in Afghanistan, according to Stars and Stripes.
Many details of the mission are classified. What is certain, though, is the heroism displayed during a mission in Dec. 2012. A group of Navy SEALS, a group that included Byers, rescued American aid worker Dr. Dilip Joseph, who was held hostage in a hideout by Taliban fighters.
In an article in Stars and Stripes, Rear Admiral Brian Losey, Commander Naval Special Warfare, stated, "Senior Chief Ed Byers' actions on the battlefield reflect the highest ideals of our profession: bravery, selfless dedication to duty, and above all, the highest level of commitment to protect the lives of others and the freedom for which our nation stands."
Byers, who has served 11 deployments overseas, demonstrated hard work while facing extreme measures to fight for the United States, according to Stars and Stripes. He has toured Afghanistan and Iraq and has been acknowledged for his good work. Byers has also been awarded with two Purple Hearts, two Combat Action Ribbons and the Bronze Star.
Byers dedicated his Medal of Honor to his friend, Petty Officer 1st Class Nicolas Checque (and his family), who sacrificed his life on the mission.