Medal of Honor Posthumously Awarded to Army Staff Sgt. Michael Orris
The White House has granted approval for the Medal of Honor to be awarded posthumously to Army Staff Sgt. Michael Orris from Staten Island, New York. Orris lost his life in Afghanistan in 2013 while protecting fellow soldiers, as confirmed by New York state Representative Nicole Malliotakis, who shared the news in a social media post.
This decision comes after years of efforts from veterans’ organizations, local officials, and the Staten Island community to honor Orris’s actions. Supporters have long believed that his bravery aligns with the highest military honors recognized by the nation.
Malliotakis mentioned in a Facebook update that she had been informed directly by the White House. “I have been informed by the White House that Staten Island’s hometown hero, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Orris, has been approved to receive the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary acts of heroism,” she noted.
On August 28, 2013, Orris was killed while shielding a Polish military officer from a suicide bomber. He was only 24 years old at the time.
“In 2013, Staff Sergeant Orris gave his life to save his fellow soldiers. His courage, selflessness, and sacrifice represent the best of our country,” Malliotakis said, echoing the sentiments of many who advocated for his recognition.
She also recognized the years of dedicated efforts by the American Legion, local officials, and the Staten Island community, and expressed gratitude to President Trump for acknowledging Orris’s exceptional heroism.
The Medal of Honor is the highest military award available, given for actions that surpass the call of duty. While the criteria have evolved, the award has consistently recognized “conspicuous gallantry, even at the risk of life,” according to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
The standards for the award were set in 1963 during the Vietnam War era. It can be awarded for actions against U.S. enemies during military operations or alongside allied forces engaged in conflict where the U.S. is not directly involved.
Receiving such medals involves a comprehensive vetting process which includes detailed reporting on the incident, testimony from at least two sworn witnesses, and other evidence. The recommendation must pass through the military chain of command before it can reach the president, serving as commander in chief.
Federal law specifies tight timelines for this process. Recommendations should be submitted within three years of the act of valor, and the medal awarded within five years. Any exceptions require congressional action to waive these limits.
In a statement shared by the SSG Michael Orris Freedom Foundation, Orris’s family expressed their gratitude. “We are extremely grateful to the President of the United States for recognizing the heroic actions of our son, Staff Sergeant Michael Orris, by awarding him the Medal of Honor,” they said. “We feel an overwhelming sense of pride and eternal gratitude knowing that Michael’s life, accomplishments, and final act of courage have not been forgotten.”
The family further thanked supporters for their advocacy, mentioning, “We are also very grateful for the letters, emails, and phone calls of support from government and military personnel, local leaders, nonprofit organizations, and so many friends here on Staten Island and beyond. We are so touched to know that you have not forgotten Michael or our family.”
Inquiries have been made to the White House and the Department of the Army for additional information about the Medal of Honor process and future ceremonies; however, the Oris family has not yet responded to these requests.
