Military Heroes

Badly outnumbered, Staff Sgt. David Bellavia took on insurgents first with an M249 Squad Automatic Weapon and then a knife.

The award is an upgrade from Bellavia's previously awarded Silver Star and honors his exceptional bravery.

Black's actions earned him a Bronze Star. Now, he will become the 19th sergeant major of the Marine Corps.

"Today marks the anniversary of the day the Marines came and told me my son, Jordan Haerter, was killed in action."

Officials are preparing to roll out a policy designed to ensure acts of heroism receive the full recognition they deserve.

After a three-year review of medals for heroism in conflicts following 9/11, the Pentagon has upgraded 57 awards for valor .

"Your father's courage and sacrifice will live for all time."

Petty Officer 2nd Class Traci Huddleston disregarded her own safety to guide others to cover.

"He had that split second to make that decision ... to sacrifice himself so that we could all live."

Arizona Sen. John McCain has embodied the triumphs and regrets of a life in the arena.