Overview
- Michael Ollis’ parents say President Donald Trump phoned them to share the approval, a moment captured in a video posted by the family’s foundation.
- Rep. Nicole Malliotakis said the White House notified her office of the decision following years of local and veteran-led advocacy.
- Ollis died on Aug. 28, 2013, at FOB Ghazni after stepping between a suicide bomber and wounded Polish Lt. Karol Cierpica, an action credited with saving other lives.
- The Staten Island native previously received the Silver Star, which the Army upgraded to the Distinguished Service Cross in 2019, while Poland honored him and strengthened ties with his family.
- Reporters note the White House has not issued a public announcement or set a date for a Medal of Honor ceremony, with the Pentagon indicating the news was not intended for release yet.