Awards &
Honors
The full history behind the Navy Cross and every honor earned along the way.
THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
takes pleasure in presenting the
To: SERGEANT AUBREY L. MCDADE JR.
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
For extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader with 1st Platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, during combat operations against insurgent forces on November 11, 2004, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
On that date, Sergeant McDade Jr.'s squad was ambushed in an alley by heavy machine gun fire during the Second Battle of Fallujah — the bloodiest battle of the Iraq War. Three Marines were seriously wounded and trapped in the kill zone, exposed to relentless enemy fire.
Braving intense enemy fire and showing total disregard for his own safety, Sergeant McDade Jr. dashed through the kill zone three times. Each time, he successfully extracted a wounded Marine to safety, carrying them under heavy fire and assisting in their medical evacuation. His actions ensured the survival of all three Marines under his care.
Sergeant McDade Jr.'s extraordinary heroism and selfless actions in the face of grave danger reflect the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. His courage, devotion to duty, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Marine Corps.
"I wasn't just going to let them sit out there like sitting ducks. They needed me, and I went."
President of the United States
By His Authority
19 January 2007
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island
All Awards
A complete record of honors and recognition
Navy Cross
Recommended for the Silver Star for the night of 11 November 2004, and it was upgraded. The Navy Cross was presented at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island on 19 January 2007. That night he was the guest of First Lady Laura Bush at the State of the Union Address.
Silver Star
The Silver Star is the third-highest military decoration for valor in combat. McDade Jr. was initially awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Fallujah, which was later upgraded to the Navy Cross.
Humanitarian Award
The 'Hope for Peace' Humanitarian Award recognizes extraordinary compassion and leadership in serving communities. Presented by Time4sharing.org for McDade Jr.'s work with veterans and young people.
18 Years of Service
Three tours of Iraq as a machine gun team leader, machine gun squad leader, and Combined Anti Armor Team Platoon Sergeant. Served as a Drill Instructor at both Parris Island and MCRD San Diego. He retired in 2017 as a Gunnery Sergeant.
Journey Timeline
Key moments in Aubrey's military career
Enlisted in November 1999, right after graduating from Western Hills High School in Fort Worth, Texas.
November 11, 2004 — Braved heavy enemy fire to save three wounded Marines in the bloodiest battle of the Iraq War.
Initially awarded the Silver Star for heroic actions in Fallujah.
January 19, 2007 — Awarded the Navy Cross at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island.
Three tours of Iraq; served as a Drill Instructor at Parris Island and MCRD San Diego. Retired in 2017 as a Gunnery Sergeant after 18 years in service.
Received the 'Hope for Peace' Humanitarian Award from Time4sharing.org for extraordinary compassion and leadership.
The Push for
America's Highest Honor
A campaign led by fellow Marines who served alongside him is now advocating for his Navy Cross to be upgraded to the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration.
Learn More About
Aubrey's Story
Explore his biography, books, and speaking topics to understand the full journey.