In search of a meaningful career, Gary Villalobos was inspired to join the Army. He reached the rank of sergeant first class and in 2005 was deployed to Iraq. In the midst of the war, Gary led a group of soldiers on a dangerous raid and in the process learned the meaning of sacrifice and heroism. He was awarded the Silver Star for courage under fire and heroic actions while fighting to save his friend and lieutenant during the Battle of Tal Afar.
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