The courage and bravery shown by the Marines of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command and Sailors while executing the largest noncombatant evacuation operation ever completed is unparalleled.

These service members worked tirelessly to assist U.S. citizens, U.S. government officials, and thousands of desperate Afghan civilians trying to flee their country.

For their courage and resolve in the face of a terrorism and human calamity, this Nation owes our service members a debt of gratitude.

I could not be more honored to recognize these truly exceptional Marines and Sailors.