Chandler vet honored for sacrifices

By Ryan Dezember

A Chandler veteran was honored for his sacrifices during a ceremony at the Arizona State Capitol on Monday.

Army veteran Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry was awarded the Silver Star, the nation’s third-highest military honor, for his actions in Afghanistan in 2010.

Petry was a member of the 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division when he was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010. On Sept. 11, 2010, Petry’s unit was conducting a patrol in the Korengal Valley when they were ambushed by a large force of Taliban fighters.

Petry and his fellow soldiers fought valiantly, but they were outnumbered and outgunned. Petry was wounded in the leg, but he continued to fight, providing cover for his comrades.

Petry’s actions helped to save the lives of several of his fellow soldiers. He was later awarded the Purple Heart for his wounds.

Petry’s Silver Star was presented to him by Gov. Doug Ducey. In his remarks, Ducey praised Petry for his bravery and sacrifice.

"Sgt. Petry is a true American hero," Ducey said. "He put his life on the line to protect our country and our freedom. We are forever grateful for his service."

Petry said he was honored to receive the Silver Star, but he said he was just doing his job.

"I was just doing what any other soldier would have done," Petry said. "I’m proud of my service, and I’m proud of my fellow soldiers."