California Today

Issa seeks Congressional Medal of Honor for San Diego Marine hero Rafael Peralta

31 May 2026 10:15

Rep. Darrell Issa has introduced legislation to posthumously award the Congressional Medal of Honor to Marine Sgt.

Rafael Peralta, a San Diego immigrant who saved fellow Marines in Fallujah. - Peralta, a Mexican immigrant and Morse High School graduate, was killed in Fallujah on November 15, 2004.

- Despite being wounded, he pulled a grenade under his body to protect nearby Marines. - The Pentagon supports the medal but Congress must waive the time limit.

- Issa's bill authorizes the President to award the medal regardless of statutory limitations. The legislation honors Peralta's extraordinary heroism and ensures his valor is recognized by the nation.

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