Nov 13, 2025
In one of the most famous photographs from the war in Iraq and still holding his 9mm Beretta, a seriously injured 1st Sgt. Brad Kasal is carried from the “Hell House” by Lcpl Chris Marquez and Lcpl Dane Shaffer on November 13, 2004.
1st Sgt. Kasal lost much of his blood and nearly lost his right leg after being shot seven times by insurgents. His body was peppered with shrapnel as he used his body to shield an injured younger Marine, PFC Alex Nicoll, from a grenade blast.
For his heroic actions that day while serving as first sergeant of Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, Brad Kasal received the Navy Cross.
(Photo by Lucian Read)
