through the phone, he almost passed out. you see, for their gallantry under fire, each of these soldiers were long ago recognized with the army's second-highest award. the distinguished service cross. but ask their fellow veterans, ask their families, and they'll tell you that their extraordinary deeds merited the highest recognition. and today, we have the chance to set the record straight. this ceremony reminds us of one of the enduring qualities that makes america great. that makes us exceptional. no nation is perfect. but here in america, we confront our imperfections and face a sometimes painful past. including the truth that some of these soldiers fought and died for a country that did not always see them as equal.