William Swenson awarded Medal of Honor

Former Army Captain William Swenson, whose heroic actions in a deadly Afghan battle were captured on video, received the nation's highest military award, the Medal of Honor on Oct. 15.

At the White House ceremony, President Obama recounted how Swenson dodged enemy fire, without a helmet, and risked his life to recover bodies and help save fellow troops.

"In seven hours of continuous fighting, Swenson braved intense enemy fire, and willfully put his life in danger against the enemy's main effort, multiple times in service of his fallen and wounded comrades, his unit, his country, and his endangered Afghan partners. Displaying conspicuous gallantry at the risk of his own life and well beyond the call of duty, Swenson would be a most deserving recipient of the Medal of Honor."