President Trump Announces Medal of Honor for Fallen Soldier Sgt. Michael Ollis

In a moving gesture, President Donald Trump personally informed the family of Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis that their son would posthumously receive the esteemed Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the United States. The announcement was captured in a video call where Robert, Michael’s father, expressed astonishment at the news.

“We’re very nervous,” Robert admitted during the call. To this, President Trump replied, “You should be, because your son is going to get the highest honor that you can have. There is no higher honor than the Congressional Medal of Honor.”

Michael Ollis, a U.S. Army Ranger, was recognized for his heroic actions during a mission in Afghanistan on August 28, 2013, where he sacrificed his life to save a Polish soldier during a suicide attack. His courageous act captured the attention of its supporters, including veterans’ groups and officials from Staten Island, New York, who advocated for his recognition.

The discussion within the family was filled with joy and gratitude. Robert Ollis couldn’t contain his excitement, exclaiming, “Thank you so much, Mr. President. You have no idea the happiness we have.” Ollis’ mother, Linda, also expressed her gratitude, noting their long efforts to see their son honored.

President Trump acknowledged the dedication required to highlight such acts of bravery, saying, “Otherwise, how are we going to know, right? You know, people don’t know. So I think that’s fantastic.”

The Medal of Honor, known for recognizing acts of valor beyond the call of duty, has rigorous criteria established since 1963 during the Vietnam War. Trump’s call emphasized the exceptional nature of Ollis’ actions. “I read what your son did, and it’s — I wouldn’t do it, Linda,” Trump confessed to Michael’s mother.

Linda softly responded, “I’m not brave enough either,” while Robert, a Vietnam veteran, echoed her sentiment, adding, “Neither am I. Even though I’m a Vietnam vet, I still wouldn’t have done it.”

In October 2023, family members, alongside Lt. Karol Cierpika, the Polish officer saved by Ollis, gathered in Poland for a ceremony unveiling a portrait and memorial plaque in Michael’s honor at Camp Kosciuszko.

Encouraging the family to celebrate their son’s bravery, Trump concluded the call with a suggestion to bring them all to the White House. The heartfelt exchange was interspersed with emotional expressions from family members, including Robert’s daughter, who eagerly expressed the joy and anticipated the White House visit.