Michael McCarty, Arkansas Army National Guard, Silver Star

VANTAGE POINT: Lt. Mike McCarty of the Arkansas Army National Guard, shown while positioned on a Baghdad rooftop in 2005, successfully led his battalion against long odds against a group of more than 100 insurgents. Photograph by National Guard Bureau.

SILVER STAR: Lt. Mike McCarty was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Iraq. His official commendation said he represents “the epitome of the American combat leader and United States Army Infantry officer.” Photograph courtesy of Mike McCarty. • Born Jan. 12, 1980, and is a lifelong resident ...