Trump informs parents of fallen Staten Island Army hero Michael Ollis that their son will be awarded the Medal of Honor.

President Honors Fallen Soldier’s Parents

President Trump shared a heartfelt phone call with the parents of Army Staff Sergeant John Johnson from Staten Island. During this conversation, Michael Oris informed them that their son would receive the Medal of Honor posthumously for his courageous sacrifice in Afghanistan over a decade ago.

On Monday, Robert and Linda Ollis were in their Staten Island kitchen when the president reached out, checking in on how they were doing. “We’re very nervous,” Robert admitted on speakerphone.

“You should be, because your son will receive the highest honor one can achieve,” Trump replied, highlighting the significance of the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Upon hearing this news, the father’s eyes brightened, transforming his expression into one of pride.

Trump reassured them, saying, “He’s looking down at you right now and thinking, ‘Mom and dad are handling this quite well.’”

At just 24 years old, Oris lost his life during a Taliban assault on Forward Operating Base Ghazni in Afghanistan on August 28, 2013. In a moment of bravery, he placed himself between a suicide bomber and a Polish officer, ultimately sacrificing himself to save others. Witnesses noted that his actions likely saved over 40 military personnel and civilians present at the base.

Initially awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the second-highest military honor, efforts have been made to promote his recognition to the Medal of Honor. This initiative followed years of advocacy from family members, veterans, local officials, especially Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, and the Staten Island community. Trump ultimately approved the prestigious military award for Oris.

The Medal of Honor is reserved for those who exhibit extraordinary bravery and selflessness in dangerous circumstances. Each nomination undergoes a meticulous review process, requiring extensive documentation, sworn testimony from witnesses, and corroborating evidence.

The Ollis couple expressed immense gratitude to the president for this acknowledgment, noting that the Medal of Honor has been awarded posthumously 618 times. “Thank you so much, Mr. President. You have no idea how happy we are,” Robert said. Linda added, “Thank you for promoting this! It’s truly fantastic,” reflecting on years of effort to secure this honor for their son.

President Trump commended their dedication to preserving their son’s legacy. “How would people know otherwise? It’s important,” he acknowledged.

He informed them they would soon travel to the White House for an awards ceremony, mentioning that “several” recipients would also be honored without elaborating further.

Referring to Oris’ bravery, Trump told Linda, “I read about what your son did, and I admit, I wouldn’t have the courage to do that.” The exchange brought a soft laugh from Linda, who replied, “Neither would I.” Robert echoed this sentiment, saying that not even as a Vietnam veteran would he have acted so heroically.