Marines Honored for Heroic Actions During Kabul Evacuation

U.S. Marines have been recognized for their bravery during the August 2021 evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth presented the Bronze Star and Commendation medals to Gunnery Sgt. Jonathan Eby, Lance Cpl. Jordan Houston, and Cpl. Michael Gretzon at a ceremony held in the Hall of Heroes at the Pentagon on August 26, 2026.

Hegseth acknowledged the delayed recognition of these service members, stating that initial award submissions were downgraded due to bureaucratic caution and possibly political reasons after the tragic events during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. During the Pentagon ceremony marking the fifth anniversary of the terrorist attack, Hegseth declared the end of such missteps in recognizing valor.

“For half a decade, this building allowed bureaucratic caution, or maybe politics, to stand in the way of proper recognition,” Hegseth said. “Today, on this milestone anniversary, we declare that those days are over.”

Gunnery Sgt. Eby received an upgraded Bronze Star with a “V” device for valor, honoring his actions at Abbey Gate. When the suicide bombing occurred, Eby took command of his platoon, establishing security and aiding the evacuation of the wounded. His leadership was highlighted as saving many lives.

Lance Cpl. Houston was situated 32 feet from the explosion, losing consciousness upon impact. Despite shrapnel injuries, he provided critical coverage and urgent treatment for severely wounded Marines. Houston’s decision to conceal his injuries was noted, alongside his efforts to remove shrapnel from his own body.

Cpl. Gretzon suffered a severe arm wound due to shrapnel but applied a tourniquet to his injury before returning to assist his squad. Despite his injuries, Gretzon continued to help his platoon until ordered to the casualty collection point.

The ceremony also served as a remembrance for the 13 service members who lost their lives during the ISIS-K suicide bombing on August 26, 2021. Those fallen include Marines and service personnel from the Navy and Army.

The War Department’s Afghanistan Withdrawal Special Review Panel continues investigating the circumstances of the attack and evacuation. Sean Parnell, chair of the panel, revealed the discovery of classified documents that were previously concealed, highlighting their relevance to the investigation.

Hegseth assured that a comprehensive report on the broader Afghanistan review is expected by the end of the year.

Marines are now officially recognized for their valor, representing strength and peace. The Pentagon has yet to respond to inquiries about the ongoing investigation.