President Donald Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to Sergeant Major Thomas Patrick Payne for rescuing dozens of hostages that were being held by ISIS in a prison in northern Iraq in 2015.
During the White House ceremony, held on the 19th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks, Trump detailed Payne’s hostage rescue and praised him for his heroic efforts.
“He saved multiple hostages and he was the last man to leave. He wouldn’t leave. No matter what they said, no matter who ordered him to do it, he wouldn’t do it. He was the last one out,” Trump said.
He added, “It was one of the largest and most daring rescue missions in American history. Pat and his team rescued 75 captives and killed 20 ISIS terrorists. Pat, you embody the righteous glory of American valor. We stand in awe of your heroic, daring, and gallant deeds. You truly went above and beyond the call of duty to earn our nation’s highest military honor.”
Watch his comments below:
President @realDonaldTrump tells the story of Sergeant Major Thomas P. Payne at his Medal of Honor ceremony pic.twitter.com/PSy0bBx8rE
— Team Trump (Text TRUMP to 88022) (@TeamTrump) September 11, 2020
Trump noted an enemy grenade severely wounded Payne’s leg in 2010 during a deployment in Afghanistan.
The president suggested Payne’s injury was “worth it” because he met his future wife during his recovery.
“While recovering in South Carolina, Pat met with his wife, Alison. Well, that was probably not a bad wound then, was it? I hope you’re going to say it was worth it. It was,” Trump said.
According to Trump, Payne has made an “astounding” 17 deployments throughout his service.
“He now serves as an instructor at the U.S. Army Special Operations Command training the next generation of American warriors,” Trump said.
He continued, “He joins the immortal company of our most revered American heroes. Pat, you personify the motto ‘rangers lead the way,’ and you inspire us all.”
