Medal of Honor Recipients at AUSA 2025

Three remarkable veterans, Retired Master Sgt. Earl Plumlee, Retired Capt. Flo Groberg, and Retired 1st Lt. Brian Thacker, shared their inspiring stories at the Association of the U.S. Army's 2025 Annual Meeting and Exposition. Each recipient demonstrated extraordinary bravery, with Plumlee and Groberg receiving the Medal of Honor for their actions in 2015 and 2021 respectively, while Thacker was honored in 1973.

Plumlee, a retired Master Sergeant, displayed exceptional valor on Aug. 28, 2013. When insurgents attacked, he shielded his driver and engaged the enemy with a grenade and pistol fire. His quick thinking and courage saved lives. Groberg, then a Captain, tackled a suicide bomber on Aug. 8, 2012, diverting the blast and protecting fellow soldiers. Thacker, a former 1st Lieutenant, manned an exposed observation post for four hours on March 31, 1971, coordinating artillery and airstrikes. Despite being wounded, he called in friendly artillery fire on his position to cover his withdrawal, evading the enemy for eight days before rescue.

All three recipients acted instinctively, their training kicking in with no time for assessment. Their actions exemplify the highest standards of military service.

The Medal of Honor recipients' stories serve as a reminder of the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of America's military personnel. Their actions, recognized by President Nixon and later Presidents, continue to inspire and motivate those in uniform today.