Washington D.C. (August 31, 2021) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers today joined Representative Lisa McClain (MI-10) in introducing legislation to posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to the thirteen U.S. military servicemembers who were killed in Afghanistan last week. 

“These brave men and women gave their last full measure of devotion to save American lives and evacuate Afghan refugees to safety,” said Rodgers. “These soldiers were heroes made of the moral fabric America is known for, and their sacrifice must never be forgotten. My heart is heavy as I pray for their families and all those who knew and loved them.”

The legislation will award the Congressional Gold Medal to Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover, Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, Sgt. Nicole Gee, Cpl. Hunter Lopez, Cpl. Daegan Page, Cpl. Humberto Sanchez, Cpl. David Lee Espinoza, Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, Lance Cpl. Rylee McCollum, Lance Cpl. Dylan Merola, Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui, Hospitalman Maxton Soviak, and Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss.

“These heroic men and women are gone far too soon, and we must honor them for their bravery in helping U.S. citizens and Afghan allies safely evacuate Afghanistan,” said McClain. “My heart aches for the families and loved ones of our servicemembers. We will always remember their service and pay tribute to their sacrifice.”

Rodgers and McClain were joined by 157 bipartisan cosponsors in introducing this legislation. 

CLICK HERE to read the bill. 

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