Producers of 2025 New York City Veterans Day Parade

Former SSG Clint Romesha

2025 Grand Marshal • Medal of Honor Recipient
Former SSG Clint Romesha, Medal of Honor Recipient

Former SSG Clint Romesha, Medal of Honor Recipient

SSgt. (Ret.) Clint Romesha during his service

SSgt. (Ret.) Clint Romesha during his time in service

Quick Facts

Born:August 17, 1981 - Lake City, California
Service:US Army (1999-2011)
Unit:61st Cavalry Regiment
Medal of Honor:February 11, 2013
Battle:Battle of Kamdesh, October 3, 2009

Biography

Clinton Romesha was born in Lake City, California on August 17, 1981. He joined the US Army in September 1999, beginning a distinguished career that would take him across the globe in service to his country.

Early in his military career, Romesha served in Kosovo and South Korea, gaining valuable experience as a Cavalry Scout. However, after a former mentor was killed in action in Iraq, he made the personal decision to request a transfer to Iraq, demonstrating his commitment to his fellow soldiers and the mission.

Serving with the 61st Cavalry Regiment, Romesha's defining moment came in May 2009 when his unit was deployed to Afghanistan. He was assigned to Combat Outpost Keating in Nuristan Province, positioned strategically on the Afghan-Pakistani border.

The Battle of Kamdesh

On October 3, 2009, Romesha emerged as one of the key leaders during COP Keating's defense in the Battle of Kamdesh. When Taliban forces penetrated the base's defenses, Romesha led the critical effort to recapture the outpost, displaying extraordinary courage and leadership under the most dangerous circumstances.

Following his heroic service, Romesha made the difficult decision to leave the Army on April 4, 2011, choosing to spend more time with his family. He relocated to Minot, North Dakota, where he transitioned to civilian life, working as a hydro excavation crew manager.

On February 11, 2013, President Barack Obama awarded Romesha the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration. In a demonstration of his humility and belief in shared sacrifice, Romesha returned his medal to the US 4th Infantry Division in December 2017, stating that "the medal was too big for him" and that there were others at Kamdesh more deserving of the honor.

Current Mission & Advocacy

Today, Clint Romesha dedicates his efforts to veteran advocacy, public outreach, and supporting initiatives aimed at improving the lives of service members and their families. His post-military mission reflects the same dedication to service that defined his time in uniform.

Romesha actively collaborates with America's Warrior Partnership (AWP), where he helps advance their critical mission of preventing veteran suicide and enhancing community-based support for veterans. His involvement brings both credibility and passion to these life-saving efforts.

Additionally, he serves as a spokesperson for PureTalk, promoting patriotic values and supporting veteran causes through the company's veteran-focused campaigns. This platform allows him to reach broader audiences while maintaining his commitment to supporting fellow veterans.

Through public speaking engagements and community outreach, Romesha continues to share his experiences from the Battle of Kamdesh, emphasizing themes of resilience, leadership, and community integration. His message inspires both military and civilian audiences nationwide, bridging the gap between military service and civilian understanding.

"The medal was too big for me. There were others at Kamdesh more deserving of it than me."

— Former SSG Clint Romesha, on returning his Medal of Honor