Watch: Hegseth Rights Another Biden Wrong – Upgrades Abbey Gate Heroes’ Awards After Previous Admin Wrongly Downgraded Them

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth upgraded the valor awards for three Marines who displayed exceptional heroism during the August 2021 suicide bombing attacks at Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan. These awards were previously downgraded, which Hegseth stated was due to bureaucratic caution or politics, and he vowed to end such practices. The upgraded awards, including Bronze Star Medals with “V” devices and a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with a “V” device, were presented to Gunnery Sgt. Jonathan Eby, Lance Cpl. Jordan Houston, and Cpl. Michael Gretzon for their actions in securing the perimeter, aiding the wounded, and providing cover under fire.

• Secretary of War Pete Hegseth personally awarded upgraded valor medals to three Marines for their heroism at the Abbey Gate bombing in Kabul, Afghanistan.
• Hegseth stated that previous downgrades of award submissions were due to bureaucratic caution or politics and vowed to end such practices.
• Gunnery Sgt. Jonathan Eby, Lance Cpl. Jordan Houston, and Cpl. Michael Gretzon received upgraded awards for their actions following the August 2021 attack.
• The “V” device signifies specific acts of heroism, differentiating from general meritorious service.
• Eby rallied Marines and evacuated the wounded, Houston provided cover and medical treatment despite injuries, and Gretzon treated himself and returned to assist despite severe shrapnel wounds.