H.R. 8973: Sergeant Rafael Peralta Medal of Honor Authorization Act

This bill, known as the Sergeant Rafael Peralta Medal of Honor Authorization Act, aims to authorize the President of the United States to award the Medal of Honor to Sergeant Rafael Peralta for his acts of valor during combat operations in Iraq on November 15, 2004. Specifically, the key elements of the bill are as follows:

Findings

The bill includes findings that outline the following significant points:

• Sergeant Rafael Peralta served in the United States Marine Corps and was a squad leader during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
• During a dangerous house-clearing operation in Fallujah, he was mortally wounded by enemy gunfire.
• Despite being injured, Sergeant Peralta acted heroically by pulling an enemy grenade beneath his body to shield his fellow Marines from the explosion, demonstrating extreme bravery and selflessness.
• His actions are described as reflecting conspicuous gallantry, deserving recognition at the highest level.

Sense of Congress

The bill expresses the sense of Congress that:

• Sergeant Peralta's actions exemplify the highest ideals of duty, courage, and sacrifice.
• Marines whose lives were saved by Sergeant Peralta acknowledge his valor and selflessness.
• There is a solemn obligation to ensure that extraordinary acts of heroism like those of Sergeant Peralta receive full and fair consideration for the Medal of Honor, irrespective of time limitations or administrative delays.

Authorization for Award of Medal of Honor

The bill provides authorization for the President to award the Medal of Honor to Sergeant Peralta, stating:

• This authorization is valid despite any existing statutory time limitations on awarding certain medals, such as those specified in Title 10 of the United States Code.
• The President is empowered to award the Medal of Honor to Rafael Peralta for his valorous actions during the specified combat operation.

Conclusion

The bill seeks to rectify any delays or administrative issues that have prevented the recognition of Sergeant Peralta's heroism by allowing the President to award the Medal of Honor based on the documented acts of valor that occurred in Iraq.

Relevant Companies

None found.