Editor’s note: We previously announced the approval of this Medal Of Honor request by the president, which was applauded by both Rep. Malliotakis and BP Fossella. His honoring is special in part because he was born and raised on the island. His heroism and dedication will now be long remembered for generations. In 2013, he selflessly gave his life to save an Allied soldier on the battlefield. We will add in further statements if they are received. If you would like to watch the video of the presentation by the president, see the video below, provided by Congresswoman Malliotakis:
Malliotakis Attends Medal of Honor Ceremony Awarded to Staten Island’s Michael Ollis
(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) released the following statement regarding U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Ollis receiving the Medal of Honor posthumously at the White House today.
“It was an honor to be present at the White House today as President Donald Trump bestowed the Medal of Honor — our nation’s highest military distinction — posthumously upon Staten Island’s own U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Ollis. The ceremony was bittersweet as our community is very grateful to and proud of Michael, but also saddened that his life was taken from him at such a young age.
We congratulate his parents, Bob and Linda, and his entire family who worked tirelessly to ensure his sacrifice received the recognition it deserves. His valor and devotion to his fellow soldiers reflect the very best of our nation. He has made Staten Island very proud and he will never be forgotten.”
Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis with Michael’s parents, Bob and Linda Ollis. Image Credit – Rep. Maliotakis
New York, NY– U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement honoring Staff Sergeant Michael H. Ollis of Staten Island, NY, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in Afghanistan:
“Staff Sergeant Michael H. Ollis represented the very best of our nation and state,” said Senator Gillibrand. “His bravery, valor, and selfless sacrifice will forever stand as a testament to the courage of our armed forces and the strength of the American spirit. I will always keep Staff Sergeant Ollis and his family in my prayers.”
BP Fossella said:
Today, Bob and Linda Ollis accepted the Medal of Honor from President Trump on behalf of their late-son, Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, in recognition of his extraordinary bravery and ultimate sacrifice.
We thank President Trump for honoring Michael. Staten Island will never forget our hometown hero.🇺🇸
Banner Image: Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis with Michael’s parents, Bob and Linda Ollis. Image Credit – Rep. Maliotakis
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