After suffering severe leg injuries while on duty in Afghanistan, Army Ranger Josh Hargis was given the Purple Heart while in an intensive care unit, totally unconscious, or was he? INSIDE EDITION has the story.
It was the salute seen around the world and it brings new meaning to the words courage, loyalty and valor.
His name is Josh Hargis, an Army Ranger serving in Afghanistan. A suicide bombing left him with severe leg injuries, which earned him the Purple Heart. The medal was placed on his blanket while he lay in an intensive care unit, totally unconscious, or was he?
His commander told the astonishing story, "Despite his wounds, wrappings, tubes, and pain, Josh fought the doctor who was trying to restrain his right arm and rendered the most beautiful salute any person in that room had ever seen. Grown men began to weep and we were speechless at a gesture that speaks volumes about Josh's courage and character."
The morning shows marveled over this brave 24-year-old, who was serving his fourth tour of duty in Afghanistan.
The Today show reported, "The commander said it was the single greatest honor of his entire career."
Josh Elliot from Good Morning America said, "To Josh Hargis, a complete and total thank you for your sacrifice and service."
Taya Kyle, widow of slain Navy SEAL and American Sniper author Chris Kyle, puts it in perspective, "This in essence is what people need to remember about our military. He's saluting when he shouldn't have the strength to do it. This shows the mental fortitude of the people who are willing for fight for something greater than themselves."
His wife, Taylor, is pregnant with their first child. On her Facebook page, she posted this proud message about the man who made the miracle salute: "Please continue to share Josh's story. The world should know what true heroes and warriors are."
