10NOV2004: Serving as a squad leader during the Second Battle of Fallujah, SSG David Bellavia's unit was tasked with clearing a series of fortified enemy positions within the city. As his squad entered to clear a building, they came under intense enemy fire from close range. Having a round damage his rifle, SSG Bellavia picked up a Squad Automatic Weapon, or M249, and pushed into the building by himself to silence the enemy fire. The fire suppressed for the time being, SSG Bellavia continued in the building until he came upon an insurgent loading an RPG to be fired against American forces. Bellavia fired and killed the RPG gunner while wounding another that exited to another room. Continuing through the building, SSG Bellavia cleared room after room killing another two insurgents in the process. Finally, having reached the rooftop of the second floor, an insurgent jumped from the third floor surprising Bellavia but not for long. A quick reaction allowed SSG Bellavia to train his weapon on the insurgent and wound him in the back and legs, falling off the roof. For clearing an entire enemy filled house and protecting his men in the process, SSG David Bellavia would be awarded the Medal of Honor.

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

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