South Carolina native receives Medal of Honor from President Trump
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WASHINGTON DC (WIS) - A U.S. Army Sergeant who grew up in the Midlands has received the Medal of Honor from President Donald Trump.
Sergeant Major Thomas Payne received the honor on September 11.
Payne led an assault team into a building in Iraq and freed 38 hostages. Shortly after doing so, Payne made his way to a second building, battled enemy fighters, and freed an additional 37 hostages.
He also helped facilitate the evacuation with the hostages from the building.
Payne grew up in Batesburg-Leesville and Lugoff, according to the White House’s announcement.
He is stationed at Fort Bragg, where he lives with his wife and three children.
To read more about Payne’s military career and achievements, click or tap here.
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