On Oct. 17, 2005, near Samarra, Iraq, Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe's armored carrier was hit by an IED. The explosion hit the fuel tanks and the vehicle caught fire. Cashe was able to get out but quickly realized that 6 of his soldiers were trapped inside.
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Disregarding his own safety and under enemy fire, he ran towards the back door trying to open it from the outside. Despite the fact that his uniform was soaked in fuel and was literally burning alive, he still continued his selfless act and managed to get his men out; all 6 of them. Suffering severe 3rd and 4th degree burns all over, he was quickly med evac.
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Upon waking up in the hospital, he's first words to his mother were: "How are my boys?" And then he began weeping, she said. He told her: "I couldn't get to them fast enough." SFC Cashe died Nov. 8, 2005 due to his extensive injuries.
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For his actions, he was awarded the Silver Star (the chain of command at the time, didn't know the full details of the event.)
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Upon realizing the true bravery displayed on that day, his family, his soldiers, his unit and above have requested his award to be upgraded to the Medal of Honor. To this day, it has yet to be approved.
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Lt. Gen. William G. Webster, Cashe's division commander, said: "The pain he suffered must have been unimaginable, and yet he continued to suffer in the name of saving others. I cannot remember a story that is its equal."
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**Before anyone jumps on another race wagon, know there are plenty of other unsung heroes from all different backgrounds, creeds and color who are still waiting to get properly recognized. The longest wait time for the MOH was 151 years. Red tape and government bullshit affects everyone.
#zerofoxtrot #stayzero #hero