William Kyle is a name you may or may not be aware of, but there is no denying the fact that he is a recognised American hero.

Kyle joined the US Marine Corps at the age of 21, achieving the rank of Lance Corporal. He was dispatched to the Afghan conflict in 2010.

When Kyle and another Marine were engaged in combat, a grenade dropped nearby. Kyle acted without hesitation and immediately…

It was a split-second decision that spoke volumes over Kyle’s indomitable strength, but would ultimately change his life forever. Kyle jumped on the grenade, using his body as a shield in order to save his friend.

He offered up his life in sacrifice so that his fellow Marine might be spared.

Naturally, he suffered devastating injuries as a result of the ensuing explosion. His body was riddled with shrapnel and the bones in his skull and face were shattered. On top of that, Kyle lost part of his jaw, one of his lungs collapsed, and he was declared P.E.A (patient expired on arrival) when he got back to Camp Bastion.

Over the next two years, Kyle was forced to undergo forty different surgeries. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery, as well as becoming a recipient of the prestigious Medal of Honor, bestowed upon him by President Barack Obama.

Today, Kyle is retired from military service and is working towards getting a degree from the University of South Carolina.

A true American hero. Watch the video below for more on Kyle’s story: