White House Medal of Honor Ceremony: Sgt. Maj. Thomas P. Payne

[Valin]

The US Army

9/11.20

Sgt. Maj. Thomas “Patrick” Payne, who is assigned to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, was part of a joint task force that assisted Iraqi security forces Oct. 22, 2015, in raiding an ISIS prison near Hawija in northern Iraq. Payne and his teammates liberated 70 hostages -- many of whom were captured Iraqi security forces personnel -- after a request by the Kurdistan Regional Government.

 

Sergeant Major Thomas P. Payne

[Valin]

9/11/20

This press conference offers members of the media the opportunity to speak with Army Sgt. Maj. Thomas “Patrick” Payne. Payne will receive the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry in support of Operation Inherent Resolve in Hawija, Iraq. On Oct. 22, 2015, then-Sgt. 1st Class Payne served as an assistant team leader during a contested rescue mission that liberated 75 Iraqi hostages being held by ISIS in a prison compound and resulted in 20 enemies killed in action. President Donald J. Trump will present the Medal of Honor to Sgt. Maj. Payne at a White House ceremony on Sept. 11.

[Valin]

Sept. 3 2020

Then-Sgt. 1st Class Thomas “Patrick” Payne served as an assistant team leader deployed to Iraq as part of a Special Operations Joint Task Force in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. On Oct. 22, 2015, his task force was given a mission to rescue over 70 Iraqi hostages being held by ISIS in a prison compound in the northern town of Hawija.

For his bravery in the face of danger, Sgt. Maj. Thomas P. Payne will be awarded the Medal of Honor.