Who are Iraq War medalists?

Who are Iraq War medalists encompasses a distinguished group of service members who received prestigious military decorations for their exceptional service and sacrifice during Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011) and Operation New Dawn (2010-2011).

Medal of Honor Recipients

The highest military decoration was awarded to several Iraq War veterans, including:

- Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta (Army) - First living recipient since Vietnam, honored for actions in Afghanistan's Korengal Valley

- Sergeant First Class Paul Smith (Army) - Posthumously awarded for defending fellow soldiers at Baghdad International Airport

- Corporal Jason Dunham (Marines) - Posthumously honored for sacrificing his life to save his squad from a grenade

- Petty Officer Second Class Michael Monsoor (Navy SEAL) - Posthumously awarded for throwing himself on a grenade to protect teammates

Distinguished Service Cross and Navy Cross Recipients

Hundreds of service members received these second-highest valor awards, recognizing extraordinary heroism in combat situations throughout Iraq's challenging urban warfare environment.

Bronze and Silver Star Medalists

Thousands of Iraq War veterans earned Bronze Star and Silver Star medals for gallantry, meritorious service, and heroic achievement. These decorations recognized acts ranging from life-saving medical treatment under fire to leading successful combat missions against insurgent forces.

Purple Heart Recipients

Over 32,000 Purple Hearts were awarded to service members wounded or killed in Iraq, representing the significant sacrifices made during this extended conflict.

Campaign and Service Medals

All Iraq War veterans received the Iraq Campaign Medal, while many also earned the Combat Action Badge, Combat Infantry Badge, or Combat Medical Badge, depending on their military occupational specialty and combat involvement.

These medalists represent the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of all who served during one of America's longest military engagements. To learn more about specific recipients and their remarkable stories of heroism, explore official military award databases and veteran organization resources.