Congressional Gold Medal Bill For Servicemembers Killed In Afghanistan Signed into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Joe Biden signed H.R. 5142 into law, which would posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to the 13 U.S. military servicemembers who were killed in Afghanistan on August 26, 2021. Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) was proud to help introduce this bill as an original cosponsor, which was sponsored by Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI) in the House. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) sponsored the companion bill in the Senate.

"The loss of thirteen American servicemembers that day weighs heavily on us all," said Rep. Garbarino. "I am glad these fallen heroes are finally receiving the recognition they deserve, and I hope that this serves as some solace to their families and loved ones. We will never forget their profound sacrifice."

The legislation will award the Congressional Gold Medal to Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover, Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, Sgt. Nicole Gee, Cpl. Hunter Lopez, Cpl. Daegan Page, Cpl. Humberto Sanchez, Cpl. David Lee Espinoza, Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, Lance Cpl. Rylee McCollum, Lance Cpl. Dylan Merola, Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui, Hospitalman Maxton Soviak and Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss.

This legislation was cosponsored by 326 House members and 68 Senators. To read the full text of the bill, click here.

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