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Cpl. Jason Dunham to Posthumously Receive Medal of Honor
(November 10, 2006) - - It was an emotional tribute to a hero Marine on the birthday he shares with the Corps. President Bush said Corporal Jason Dunham of Scio was "born to be a Marine." News 4's Rob Macko reports the Southern Tier man who laid down his life to save fellow Marines received a personal salute Friday from his commander-in-chief.
President George W. Bush highlighted the sacrifice of Marine Corporal Jason Dunham at the dedication of the new National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, Virginia.
Jason Dunham would have turned 25 Friday.
He shares a birthday with the Marine Corps, prompting the president to say Dunham was "born to be a Marine."
Bush said, "And, on this special birthday, in the company of his fellow Marines, I'm proud to announce that our nation will recognize Corporal Jason Dunham's action with America's highest decoration for valor, the Medal of Honor."
Dunham was killed in Iraq in April 2004 when his squad went to help some Marines who had been ambushed.
While searching a vehicle, an insurgent jumped out and grabbed Dunham by the throat.
Dunham fought back, and warned his men to watch the insurgent's hands.
That's when a grenade rolled out.
The military says Dunham jumped on the insurgent's grenade, and shielded the blast with his helmet and body.
Bush said, "And, by giving his own life, Corporal Dunham saved the lives of two of his men, and showed the world what it means to be a Marine."
Dunham's parents attended Friday's ceremony.
After making the announcement that their son will posthumously receive the Congressional Medal of Honor, President Bush himself fought back tears.
Bush said, "As long as we have Marines like Corporal Dunham, America will never fear for her liberty, and, as long as we have this fine museum, America will never forget their sacrifice."
Dunham, who is from Scio in Allegany County, is the first Marine from the Iraq War to be nominated for the Medal of Honor.
