William Kyle Carpenter. You might know his name, you might not, but you can never dispute the fact he is a certified American hero.

At the age of 21, Kyle earned the rank of Lance Corporal in the United States Marines. In 2010, he was sent into war in Afghanistan.

During a firefight, a grenade landed near where Kyle and another Marine were fighting. Without thinking twice, Kyle leapt into action …

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.