08AUG2012: Serving as Personal Security Detachment Commander for TF Mountain Warrior, CPT Florent Groberg was responsible for the safety of a group of key US and Afghan leaders. In early August, the brigade commander along with additional US and Afghan military leadership traveled to Asasadabad where they were scheduled to meet with the provincial governor at his compound. Taking a helicopter to FOB Fiaz, CPT Groberg led the dismounted patrol through the densely populated city of Asadabad for the short movement to the meeting. Nearing a choke point, things started to look off and CPT Groberg and his men noticed an individual walking towards their formation but moving backwards. Groberg moved towards the man to investigate and as he approached, the man turned, displaying a strange bulge in his clothing. Groberg ran forward and when he reached the suspect, identified a suicide vest. Without regard for his own safety, CPT Groberg aggressively ran the man away from the formation tackling him into the street. As he hit the ground, the vest detonated, away from the middle of the formation but severely wounding Groberg and throwing him 20 feet. In the chaos of the situation, a second would-be attacker detonated his vest prematurely, away from any US or Afghan troops. Four Americans would be killed in the attack but if it weren't for CPT Groberg's heroic act, that number would have been far higher. Groberg survived the blast and in recognition of his selfless act, would be awarded the Medal of Honor in 2015.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related