Pontiac Times

Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) joined congressional leaders today in Washington to posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to 13 U.S. military service members who were killed during the final days of the Afghanistan withdrawal. McClain was the lead sponsor in the House on the legislation awarding the Medal.

“13 brave men and women paid the ultimate price due to a senseless attack, and I wanted to ensure that our service members' sacrifice was not in vain,” said McClain. “Today, we pay tribute to the 13 lives lost at Abbey Gate with the Congressional Gold Medal and continue to keep their families and all who loved them in our prayers. Theirs is the epitome of selfless service, and a grateful nation honors them.”

“The House of Representatives is grateful to Congresswoman Lisa McClain for leading the legislation to posthumously award the 13 American servicemembers lost in the Kabul Airport terrorist attack the Congressional Gold Medal,” said Speaker Johnson. “Her great work will help ensure the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice at Abbey Gate receive the highest honor that Congress can bestow.”

On August 26, 2021, an ISIS-K suicide bomber attacked Hamid Karzai International Airport, resulting in 13 U.S. service members' deaths.

The Congressional Gold Medal, Congress’s highest honor, is an expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. Each medal honors a particular individual, institution, or event.