Fan Request: Medal of Honor Recipient, Cpl. Kyle Carpenter | Letterman

Fan Friday Request:
"Dave always did a great job of honoring our troops. I remember he had on a few Medal of Honor recipients. I think Veteran's Day would be a good day to repost one of those appearances. Thank you for my daily dose of Dave on this channel.
Mark, Peoria, IL"
(From "Late Show," air date: 6/26/14)
If you have a clip you’d like to see, email us at [e-mail]
#medalofhonor #veteransday #letterman
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Welcome to the Letterman KZbin Channel, home to all your favorite clips from Late Night and Late Show - as well as conversations with the writers, producers and performers who helped make it all happen. These highlights have been artisanally-produced, carefully-curated, and chosen completely at random by an old computer that used to pick numbers for the New York Lotto back in the 90’s.

[@jommywop]

This guy is a savage. He got in a fight with a grenade and won.

[@whitenight369]

This is for my family... Montage..

[@jeramizzle666]

Holy 🤬 you’re right! Trauma humor for the win. 🖤🖤🖤

[@cocons13]

@@ObamaFromKenya I looked up his IG and damn, chiksdigscars is such a baller handle. If anyone earned it, he did

[@bugsfrickingbunny]

I am a Marine and served over there too. Bad place in the best of circumstances. I was shot twice and had my neck broken. He is a shining example of what that uniform represents to all of us. I am honestly amazed he survived, Semper Fi

[@Paulco67]

I hope you are doing well now and thank you for service!

[@alru5792]

Salute!

[@Inkedaquarian76]

Thank you for your service and sacrifice ❤

[@andrewwebb-trezzi2422]

Thank you! We know freedom isn’t free, you paid the price.

[@DarkIsleBagpiper]

Thank you for your service and sacrifice. 🙏🏻🙌🏻🇺🇸 I know that that service and sacrifice doesn’t end when you come home. The words “Thank you” don’t describe my gratitude enough.

[@JabeRaddle]

This absolute hero lost most of the bones in his head and he's still more handsome than me. God bless him and all our heroes in the military.

[@aldwincleofe6889]

For someone who quite literally got blown up, he is incredibly calm, coherent, humble and loaded with class. A true hero and one of a kind.

[@gordonramsey6738]

You never know what pills he has to take to be so calm… He has gone through a major trauma. I am sure he has a great psychiatrist.

[@Kharmatos13]

He's a Statesman and class act. He's the kind of guy who SHOULD BE a US Senator.

[@marccano5061]

I second that!

[@Notimp0rtant523]

But he knows he’s better than politics

[@Kharmatos13]

@@Notimp0rtant523 True, but that's exactly why he should. We could use some class in DC.

[@fredmansfield7793]

You got that right, don't know how he walks with a set of balls that big, God bless him

[@josuemercado4192]

Agreed

[@godofawesum223]

I'm impressed and proud of how fast Dave corrected himself from "won" to "recieved" He's right. It's not a contest. You don't win medals of Honor

[@dieselbox2429]

Well said

[@derricklockhart9650]

Many people might not know this, or believe it. But David Letterman is a good man. Don't believe everything you have read or heard. Trust me. Semper Fi!

[@massholeTurk]

I'm surprised how many times I've heard won. I always thought the men were recipients.

[@JohnyAngelo]

Yeah, Obama unfortunatelly made that mistake in the very end of the medal ceremony.

[@BobbyTucker]

@@JohnyAngelo , Obama was a mistake.

[@fwfrazorx]

Take a good look at this young man. He is the reason you get to enjoy your freedom. Show him respect and do not take it lightly. Glad bless him and the troops who keep us free!

[@teckz0r]

One man's "freedom" is another's oppression

[@fwfrazorx]

@@teckz0r Please expand on that.

[@borislavtosic7119]

@@fwfrazorx How is waging war in a country miles away from US Soil keeping the US free ? The freedom was never in question, US soil was never in danger

[@fwfrazorx]

@@borislavtosic7119 Don’t hate the player, hate the game.

[@chrisb7198]

@@borislavtosic7119 Explain that to the 3,000 that died on that day,

[@firefighter343]

I've known Kyle for many years and I can assure you, everything about him gives you goosebumps. Love you brother! Semper Fi 🫡

[@thedude4672]

I'm a grown man crying like a baby listening to this hero -- his courage, humility, and selflessness.

[@DaneOrschlovsky]

You're not the only one, Dude.

[@johnwilliamson2276]

You are not alone. My eyes are filled with tears for this young man. I am a Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran and this is very moving for me. God Bless him the rest of his life. ❤

[@MacDaddyRico]

As a veteran, I am saddened and angered by the fact that this man, along with his fellow brothers and sisters in arms, are used as fodder in illegal wars based on lies...Used to kill innocent people in foreign, sovereign countries... And the ignorance of the population regarding these facts is equally as angering... Afghanistan and Iraq had NOTHING to do with 9/11 (that was israel and the USA, by the way)...

[@barbarafrench7666]

I AM JUST CRYING....I JUST CANNOT TELL YOU HOW PROUD OF THIS YOUNG MAN!😀

[@christians131]

You’ll love his book!

[@larryhansen2694]

Bless Corporal Carpenter. I am a 76 year old Disabled Vietnam War Veteran. (US Army) The interviews that letterman has done with Medal of Honor recipients always brings tears to my eyes. Even today when watching reruns.

[@largecaucasian3006]

As a Marine, I am in awe of his heroism & exemplary conduct in representing the Marine Corps so professionally. Every person who has ever worn our beloved EGA, has their hearts swelling out of our chests & tears streaming down our faces listening to him speak. My only wish is that our elected officials hold a fraction of the character & love of country of this man. Semper Fi

[@werideatdusk]

Amen, and thank you for your service 🇺🇸🙏

[@davidrichter9164]

I never get tired of watching this clip. Much respect and gratitude to this young man for his service.

[@MikeWood]

From his his MoH citation: Lance Corporal Carpenter and a fellow Marine were manning a rooftop security position on the perimeter of Patrol Base Dakota when the enemy initiated a daylight attack with hand grenades, one of which landed inside their sandbagged position. Without hesitation, and with complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Carpenter moved toward the grenade in an attempt to shield his fellow Marine from the deadly blast. When the grenade detonated, his body absorbed the brunt of the blast, severely wounding him, but saving the life of his fellow Marine. By his undaunted courage, bold fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of almost certain death, Lance Corporal Carpenter reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

[@MacDaddyRico]

As a veteran, I am saddened and angered by the fact that this man, along with his fellow brothers and sisters in arms, are used as fodder in illegal wars based on lies...Used to kill innocent people in foreign, sovereign countries... And the ignorance of the population regarding these facts is equally as angering... Afghanistan and Iraq had NOTHING to do with 9/11 (that was israel and the USA, by the way)...

[@allenlovell1604]

Richly deserves that MOH! When I worked for the VBA, I had the distinctive honor of meeting 3 living MOH honorees ! One from Vietnam ( You can read his book, " Bravest of The Brave " )to learn more about his heroism under fire ; two from Afghanistan- They were at an FOB and held off a fierce Taliban -AL Queda attack in a bowl shaped valley for hours before air support finally suppressed their attackers. How often does one salute and shake hands with a legend? I also met a Tuskegee Pilot , he retired as a colonel! Had chills running down my spine just meeting these people !I'd vote for this young man for congressman, Senator, or even President! He's got guts to do what he did !Semper Fi, I wasn't a Marine,but that's what my late stepfather taught me to say. From an former USAF Sargeant!

[@davidboinonen9613]

God Bless The Marines 🙏🏼🇺🇸

[@In_memory_of_Dad]

God bless the British Royal Marines and God bless the United States Marine Corps...🇬🇧🇺🇲🇬🇧🇺🇲

[@robinbolton6064]

@@In_memory_of_Dad From 🇨🇦 👍

[@bucknekkid8234]

i'm not American but I do want to say this. Hero's never say they are. Bravery never Brags. This "kid" could have easily said he remembered jumping on the grenade...he did not. he remembers nothing. but we all know what he did and why he did it. What utter courage, bravery, valour and ultimately compassion for his fellow soldiers. Good on Dave for treating this with the gravity he did. This was no comedy bit but a true recognition of excellence piece. This young man deserves everyone's respect, thanks and support moving forward.

[@marccano5061]

I'm so proud to see him . I went through MCRD San Diego long before he did, but he makes me proud. In boot camp they don't teach you to "jump on the grenade" however, it's in the culture! Semper Fi

[@MacDaddyRico]

As a veteran, I am saddened and angered by the fact that this man, along with his fellow brothers and sisters in arms, are used as fodder in illegal wars based on lies...Used to kill innocent people in foreign, sovereign countries... And the ignorance of the population regarding these facts is equally as angering... Afghanistan and Iraq had NOTHING to do with 9/11 (that was israel and the USA, by the way)...

[@jamiepuente481]

The willingness of each of us to give our lives for each other is probably one of those unquantifiable advantages we have. I was a Soldier this man is a Marine but that matters little. We are all brothers and sisters. Hooah!

[@SuperYrch]

Well said.

[@Pub2k4]

@@MacDaddyRicoThe man is trying to pay respects to an actual hero, and you seize the opportunity to spout your anti Semitic, anti American conspiracy theory. That’s worse than stolen valor… that marine proved he was a better man than you when he was 22 years old, and you should acknowledge it, rather than trying to start a BS argument in the KZbin comments section.

[@ryanhampson673]

PEA stands for Pulseless Electrical Activity. What that means is your heart is still firing and beating but there is little to any blood left to generate a pulse. As a 10 year army vet I salute you.

[@cockeyedoptimista]

Ohhh...

[@beverlyhill9947]

THANK YOU, RYAN, FOR SHARING YOUR INFORMATION WITH US. IT WAS A VERY GOOD POST AND I AM SURE MANY OF US ARE MORE AWARE NOW OF THE MEDICAL REASONS THAT POSSIBLY MARINE KYLE CARPENTER WAS TOLD THE WORDS HE SHARED. AGAIN, I APPRECIATE YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND YOUR SHARING. WE SHOULD NEVER STOP LEARNING. BLESSINGS~~BEV~~

[@thedanstack]

@@beverlyhill9947 the all caps almost makes it sound sarcastic... sure it isn't, but just an fyi

[@catherinekenny5465]

As an ER nurse, just to clarify, you do not have a heartbeat with PEA, so no cardiac output, and it requires immediate CPR or the patient has only minutes before they die. It's amazing that this young man is alive, never mind thriving lihe he is!!

[@jaynehenderson5240]

Thank you, Ryan, for YOUR service in the Army.

[@deborahbower9378]

Maybe the best interview I have seen David do. Brought tears to my eyes. I wish Kyle the best in life.

[@dwave81]

I could tell Dave was a little choked up as well 😢

[@bottlerocket3218]

When you watch Kyle, you're reminded that there's truly good people in the world, he is one of them, and watching him talk and conduct himself makes you want to be a better person yourself.

[@Fontari]

I dislike Letterman but I tip my hat to him for a humble, authentic respect during this interview with a true American Hero!

[@michaelfarranto-wg6zw]

TEARS ARE SWELLING UP IN MY EYES! I'M GETTING A LITTLE TOO EMOTIONAL TO CONTINUE MY COMMENT. SO, I'LL END MY COMMENT BY SAYING THIS TO ALL WHO MAY READ MY COMMENT. WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS ADEQUATELY WHATS IN MY SOUL NOW. MAY ALMIGHTY GOD BLESS CPL. KYLE CARPENTER FOR HIS DUTY TO GOD AND COUNTRY. HE WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND HIS DUTY TO GOD AND COUNTRY. MAY ALMIGHTY GOD BLESS ALL WHO SERVED IN ANY BRANCH OF THE UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES. AS ALWAYS, GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS TAKE CARE AND STAY SAFE! I REMAIN, WITH WARMEST REGARDS, MOST SINCERELY, MICHAEL! FORMER UNITED STATES ARMY MILITARY POLICE OFFICER WHO SIMPLY SOUGHT "JUSTICE" NOT "INJUSTICE" TO MY BROTHERS IN CHRIST AND MY BROTHERS IN THE UNITED STATES ARMY, AND CIVILIANS AS WELL! RIGHT ON! RIGHT ON! BYE 4 NOW! ❤🎉

[@jkillgrove]

No greater love has a man than to lay down his life for his brother.

[@raybeavers3123]

Absolutely AMEN

[@patriciahall4273]

I love that Letterman took the time to honor this hero. This is the kind of person we should look up to.

[@theupsndowns8161]

Dave is very patriotic

[@vickyschnorbus4166]

This young man deserved every bit of that ovation and more. God bless him.

[@MISNM0]

Echo!

[@user-on4kr1zd1d]

This young man is a true hero. Humble and deserves to be looked after by his country. A huge thank you for all you gave.

[@user-gd3vo2ug9q]

I'm a Marine and I was in from 72 to 74🇺🇸 and I salute him my brother simplify

[@michaelholliday6037]

As a Marine infantrymen myself, this young man is the pinnacle of Marines with how humble he remains! He’s young enough to be my son and he humbles me like no other!

[@rkf2746]

I had the honor and privilege of meeting Sgt. Salvatore Giunta some years back at a hockey game here in No. Colorado. As a MoH recipient, he was the home teams guest of honor, and was introduced mid-ice. After the game, and as we were leaving, a mutual friend was with Sgt. Giunta and introduced me. Humbleness appears to be the hallmark of these gentlemen who wear the medal. A more humble, down to earth man I had never met. Sometime later, I ran into my friend that had introduced us. He told me that Sal was rather embarrassed by all the attention he had received during the game, and deferred to those that are still serving. Welcome home Marine. Semper Fi.

[@captnchaos8486]

@@rkf2746 sadly, this doesn't apply to Dakota Meyer. He's an ass who has disrespected himself, the Marines, and the medal.

[@rkf2746]

@@captnchaos8486 l've heard that said more than once about Meyer. Too bad. Take it easy.

[@bryanlacount7551]

@@captnchaos8486 How exactly has Dakota Meyer disgraced anyone? Are you mad that he told the truth about how the Army completely and utterly dropped the ball in that incident?

[@captnchaos8486]

@@bryanlacount7551 it's a long story that happened years ago. There where words exchanged between us on a personal level. The long & short of it is he didn't keep his honor as a Marine clean, said some things he shouldn't have said and disrespected those who didn't make it home to have that medal hung around their neck but handed to a widow or grieving mother.

[@rayg4654]

Shame on those who tread on the American flag, shame on those who kneel when the national anthem is played, shame on those who hate America but love what America has to give to them. This man gave everything and never asked for anything in return. That is a patriot!

[@thenewmaniscoming6533]

SHAME ON THOSE WHO DON'T UNDERSTAND THAT BEING AN AMERICAN MEANS YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO KNEEL IF YOU WANT TO PROTEST INJUSTICE. YOU ARE PATHETIC AND ARROGANT. YOU ARE NOT AN AMERICAN.

[@AlexZ-lc6nl]

“Hate america but love what America has to give to them”. That. That right there. Struck a cord for me. You’re not wrong.

[@CortinaATX]

As a Marine myself, I can almost guarantee that Corporal Carpenter would probably agree with me. I served this great country to give those who trample the flag that very right to do so.

[@chrissullivan195]

This should be played in every High school and college to show how lucky they are to be in this country with someone like this. True hero.

[@williamleacy3138]

Thank you

[@MeMeDaVinci]

Absolutely!!!

[@archangel9092]

OIL!!!!!!!

[@kdmigloo]

Yeah sure, i can see a bunch of afghan troops running down my street right now. Please help me.

[@buckfiden2594]

@@kdmigloo he went through all that so Israel could feel a little bit safer and the CIA could continue running the world opium trade. Tragic really.

[@gsmeeuwsen]

I love that Dave gave this HERO so much time and respect...

[@yaboieddie1841]

Because of courageous men like this I will always have a deep appreciation and love for this incredible country and its armed forces

[@rexoates4484]

I’m an old peacetime army grunt so I hope marines won’t mind it when I say, it’s guys like him who make the marines so legendary.

[@mtmadigan82]

Kyle carpenter is the fcking man. He spoke at an event on base talking about his life, events, and his recovery. It was incredible, ton of Marines welling up and in awe of him. Like we are with most MOH guys. He stuck around and shook the hand of everyone in that hall. You would of thought they were waiting to see the pope. In our community, given a choice every single guy there would have rather met kyle over the pope.

[@brttchpmn]

I put him above the pope

[@mtmadigan82]

@@brttchpmn you wouldn't be wrong 😉

[@penelopegriffin2547]

The Pope would put him above himself without any hesitation. Humility is the greatest gift 👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@mtmadigan82]

​@@penelopegriffin2547 nice answer 😊

[@eileenheitman4351]

I joined at age 17 in 1967 a couple weeks after h.s. grad. I volunteered for 19 months in Vietnam . I consider myself a tough guy. Corporal Carpenter brings tears to my eyes. The Few.....the Proud. Semper Fidelis Dave Heitman Sgt., USMC 1967-1970 .

[@nancyslider645]

Thank you for your service Sir.

[@SafeGuardYourSoul]

yes!!! 1981-88 Semper Fi

[@nancyslider645]

@@SafeGuardYourSoul and thank you as well… my Dad -now deceased - was a Sargent in the Marine Corp in the Pacific theatre before taking a bullet to the chest. He never spoke of his experiences except all 6 of us were raised with a thorough & rich respect for all things Corp. Pearl Harbor Day, Marine Corp Birthday, ‘Wound Day’ were as honored as our birthdays & holidays. We 3 daughters knew The Hymn on piano ( I can still hit enough notes that it’s recognizable). I say all this as a way of my thanks for service , as in today’s times appreciation isn’t displayed enough for our men & women , imo. 🙏

[@SafeGuardYourSoul]

@@nancyslider645 Nice to hear from you and your wonderful late father and family Nancy. Thank you for sharing and may God bless you richly in Christ.

[@nancyslider645]

@@SafeGuardYourSoul Appreciate your words… I am so very blessed. My husband passed away this morning after years of illnesses. He had been in the hospital this tim for 3mths. Were it not for my Faith I’d be a wreck, prayers for mercy not miracles have been answered- in His time, not mine. ✌️❤️🙏

[@anthonyboyle402]

Hero is a word often used to describe sports stars. This is what a hero looks like. A real humble man who handles himself with dignity. No self appreciation. Giving praise for everyone but himself. A true inspiration. Thankyou.

[@janmoline]

AMEN

[@johnzacharias40]

M

[@MISNM0]

Echo!

[@jamesgilmore8256]

What most people don't realize, but should, is they don't hand out Medals of Honor like candy at Christmas. You must deserve it. There are literally MILLIONS of men, and women, who have given their lives for our freedom. Please let's not forget them, our fallen brothers and sisters.

[@MikeyD22]

Well said!

[@islander790]

Brit army vet here. I'd like to buy that man a pint and shake his hand. What a courageous, smart, humble young man. An absolute example of selfless service and true valour. I hope he goes on to even bigger and better things in life

[@441cessna]

And would be honored to buy you and Kyle the second and third round.And ditto on the bigger and better things in life for Kyle and you....

[@J03YDR4M45]

@@441cessna let me get the fourth and fifth round please!

[@J03YDR4M45]

@MrComfyFrog. I'm Aussie! Our beers are always cold my Brother! Hahahaha

[@jamesgilmore8256]

He could take this and turn it into a life of luxury, but he doesn't. He's still a Marine, one of the most cussed, ornery, and stubborn animals on the planet.

[@Vongreimbf109]

He not drink alcohol

[@an6350]

i think the epitome of human love is sacrificing yourself for another person. he probably didn't even have time to think, just threw himself on the grenade knowing he'd probably die instead of his friend. that's so beautiful and i'm so glad he's still alive and healthy.

[@aerator]

What a perfect example of an American fighting man and the respect he brings to the Marine Corps he served. A solid hero.

[@mtmadigan82]

Met him when he spoke to our unit. There's really not a better person as the public face of the Marines. Guy's wildly impressive and an inspiration.

[@predictorbibulous3327]

There are no words for how badass this guy is.

[@greggwashburn5924]

Thank You To All Veterans All Branches Of The Military

[@vincebrannon3353]

The medics that saved this guys life and built him back up need a medal too. Unbelievable.

[@raybeavers3123]

I totally agree

[@armynation31B5V5P]

I'm Army and deployed to Iraq three times to include Afghanistan. I observed (my) Medics saved so many of us and others. Thank you Combat Medics. We love you all!!!

[@ricosuave8123]

This young man exudes … humbleness, integrity and humility. Much respect.

[@TomMarch-kq5ug]

as a combat US Army Vietnam veteran who did 2 tours in "NAM" I shed a tear for my friends who gave their lives while I was in Vietnam!!!! Marine Recon up north at I corp!!! It was a privilege to serve as a LRRP, 5th SFG a number of times on Fire missions!!! The Marines to me are the bravest guys I co-opt with a few times!!! Kyle I salute you sir !!!!!!!!!!

[@BritIronRebel]

I was a Corpsman with the 3rd Marines in Quang Tri Province along the DMZ. I still see the faces of those I couldn't save. But I love Marines - they kept me alive. I got invited to a Marine reunion last year and it was great to hear Doc again after 50 years! Semper Fidelis!

[@unseelie63]

I salute you both,Tom March and Britiron Rebel,for your courage and for your service!

[@m.h.6499]

For your service, thank you, sir.

[@m.h.6499]

@@BritIronRebelThank you for your service, sir.

[@bloodsling]

knowing the severity of his wounds,the team of Dr's and nurses that worked on him,jeez,amazing skill.

[@stuartheinemeier6826]

I liked how he commended the Doctors and Nurses at Walter Reed. A SUPER bunch! OOH-RAH!

[@spencermann3951]

I believe he’s had over 150 surgeries

[@jennam3892]

War is so ugly but he’s a beautiful example of a true soldier ❤

[@derricklockhart9650]

One of the best guest to ever sit-down with Dave. I have seen this video about 50 times. And It never gets old. God bless this Marine.

[@roberthudson1959]

"It ain't the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog." Letterman towers over Carpenter, but Carpenter's Medal of Honor citation is mind-boggling.

[@jackcobin5724]

Most of rhe winners were not large from Audi Murphy and all.

[@edwardpapa1278]

The silence after David explains what he did.. chills

[@DaveGII-id6dk]

Kyle is one of the most gentle, humble person I know. The award couldn't have gone to a better person.

[@MikeSmith-lu2xe]

alright, who's cutting onions?...the amount of bravery this young man has is remarkable. he should not have to pay for anything for the rest of his life.

[@jeffk1482]

He already paid in advance - and is owed some change!

[@bugatti599gtr]

He did something so heroic that he can't remember he did it. That's so tragic yet so inspiring

[@jeffreymccullough1703]

WOW,and we think we got it rough in life.Kyle is a Class Act.

[@christopherb4015]

I'm glad our brave veterans are getting help when they do come home.

[@joebaseball17]

THANK YOU to all of you Veterans out there. God bless you and God bless America.

[@jamesa7506]

AMEN!

[@VictorHernandez-eq5ns]

Thank you.

[@freighter1097]

As someone who spent twelve years in, you are welcome. I spent years in a country that didn't want us there to begin with and accomplished nothing to help anyone back home. We didn't keep anyone safe. We murdered people on foreign land and made a lot of contractors money.

[@werideatdusk]

@@freighter1097 regardless of the cause or effect, it's the act of stepping up and putting your life on the line that will always bring honor to your name and, in turn to us your fellow americans.

[@Cubs-Fan.10]

This interview never gets old, such a humble dude.

[@danielb7660]

God Bless this young man. May he only know Peace throughout the rest of his life. You are in my prayers Kyle.

[@runninggirl2765]

He is so humble and respectful and the best representative of servicemen. This should be mandatory viewing in high school civics class.

[@raybeavers3123]

I totally AGREE

[@petewhite85]

Dave ALWAYS saluted the military and service members throughout his career and others followed his lead in doing so.

[@MarksTournaments]

Good publicity

[@edwardkennedy2257]

@@MarksTournaments this guy doesn’t need any publicity. He has a following already

[@Frankincensedjb123]

One of my uncles is a Captain in the Marines, got his degree in psychology and is a drug and rehab counselor. These men and women who truly serve are the unsung heroes. In order to make such a sacrifice, you have to be quite humble and giving. I had a tough time not tearing up watching this. God bless the great men and women who serve. They make the greatest sacrifice. God bless you, Corporal.

[@gregerlach]

What a fantastic, modest and brave young man. An absolute example to everyone how a human being should behave.

[@werideatdusk]

This young man reminds me of the best our country has to offer. Thank you for your service and your example. We are all in awe.

[@mwhitelaw8569]

If you have ever seen the pre op photos ( which are very few ) the absolute tremendous amount of work they had done to this young marine is absolutely amazing. I followed his journey through recovery Amazing Kyle Stand tall marine!!!

[@Mornomgir]

I saw a documentary about him and the medic that got to him first had to remove his teeth out of his own nose or something like that. I think he looks fantastic. The amount of work both from him and the surgeons is borderline mythical.

[@cockeyedoptimista]

@@Mornomgir Oh god. Wow. Yes, it's amazing work. He is very handsome whem her smiles; it's like he got extra dimples. For real, though. You can't keep a good man down. His inner light shines through brightly.

[@waynedouglas4106]

@@cockeyedoptimista b

[@MISNM0]

🇺🇸

[@cockeyedoptimista]

@@waynedouglas4106 What does "b" mean? B.s.? Reading my own comment, it does sound cornball. But I meant it.

[@jllee9189]

David Letterman did a very honorable and respectful interview toward one of our “TRUE HEROES” !

[@jimmehlich6093]

I am a navy veteran I take my hat off to Kyle for his courage and sacrifice. He is shining example of what means to be a true marine. From one vet to another I wish the best in life. One thing I want to say is vets never stop serving even after we leave the military.

[@ChuckNorris01]

As a fellow combat vet serving in Iraq I cried watching this. I knew about this story but too much for me to see it live or a video of him. Truly my hero!

[@SeaLife60]

Thank you for your service!

[@ChuckNorris01]

@@SeaLife60 thank you for your support!

[@easterbuny2226]

you all did not belong there , You only destabilized the region for Bush and the NWO . I never supported you or the war . I am the hero , I am a pre 911 vet and tried to tell you all not to go there . No I do not thank you for your service .

[@Blessings1111]

Thank You For Your Service : ❤️🇺🇲

[@smmithmichael2239]

Thank you for your service 🫡

[@michelepuente]

My grandfather was one of five immigrant boys, all drafted at the beginning of WWII. He stormed Normandy. Earned a purple heart at the Battle of the Bulge. Miraculously, all five boys made it back home. It is in their name and in the honor of those who did not make it home that this 21yr old served his country and nearly lost his life. Kids today sacrifice very little. I fear that they do not value the fact that this nation's freedom has been ensured because of those who have. Bravo Zulu, soldier.

[@stuartheinemeier6826]

A MARINE, not a Soldier. Sorry.

[@dukeboy-6645]

Kyle Carpenter, gentleman and 100% badass. God bless indeed.

[@colwilliamnoydb4134]

This man is the perfect example of the quality of men we have in the Marines. Always caring for the others over yourself. I am very proud of him and proud that I have served in the same organization that turns out brave, compassionate, respectful you men and women. The Marines. Notice how he always call David, an Older Man, Sir. Same way I was raised.

[@lm-usmc]

This Hero pretty much ate a grenade and lived to talk about it. A great human and Marine. Semper Fi Brother!

[@markmcarthy596]

For every soldier who receives a medal there are countless others who deserve one-and more

[@joedwyer3297]

True, but that's because these medals are for outstanding performance (for lack of a better word, trust me I tried to find one). Compared to us, theyre all just on another level, but for them, putting their life on the line is what the job is. So to earn one you have to be a cut above the creme de la creme

[@davesteadman1226]

I would never have been able to muster the courage and maturity to face the things he has gone through. Makes my problems so trivial!!!!

[@alru5792]

Indeed it does. You never ever know how you may react under pressure. You may surprise yourself.

[@davesteadman1226]

@@alru5792 Well, OK, I don't think I'd have the guts he has!!!

[@BonnChnd]

That Medal represents all who shed their blood to water the Tree of Liberty. Thank you for your service ❤

[@craigholt3485]

This badass, John Chapman, and other CMH recipients are the best of the best. I refused to be treated by the VA because young men like him needing funds, well past my injuries. God bless him.

[@SteeleMagnolia]

As a mother of three Marine sons, I'm so moved by this young man, and wish him the very best.

[@jamesgilmore8256]

Just between us, it was probably less difficult being a Marine than being a Marine Mom Semper Fi! And ,.l.. to the rest!

[@STFU255]

We will never see anything this amazing on Colbert.

[@8fconsulting147]

Colbert would have the attacker on as a guest…..

[@Fultonfalcons86]

This what we call a true American hero he doesn't desire credit for any of his actions others came forward and spoke of this Marines bravery.........

[@serioushex3893]

The baddest ass who ever lived. a true hero.

[@FrankCostanza456]

Very little get this old fool teary eyed but I was sobbing like a child for this young man's courage , conviction and resilience. God bless Kyle Carpenter now and always.

[@tristramcoffin926]

It is amazing how someone who actually would have every right to bore everyone with what a glorious badass he is instead present himself as the most humble person on the planet.

[@unseelie63]

Let's hear it for the Marine credo of never leaving one of their own behind.His comrades got him to safety even if it was possible that he was beyond help.He wouldn't be alive without them,and he wouldn't be alive without himself.Such selflessness on his part! True courage and commitment.

[@johnjackson5281]

It’s what we do!

[@jamesgilmore8256]

So few people these days know know what Integrity is. It's not a shampoo.

[@jamesvandemark2086]

This young Marine is a treasure....... stirs up the "old soldier" emotions.

[@DerClouder]

It's a wonderful thing when your country recognizes your service with such a pretigious medal like Medal of Honor. Huge respect for this Marine.

[@derekwischmann6123]

Agreed!

[@stevelong7638]

I'm a retired Air Force Veteran and I have a heavy heart for this young man, very proud of him in so many ways. He is what the United States Military should be, thanks for your support of the Great United States of America, God bless you and thanks again for a job well done.

[@bedminstereric]

I loved when Dave did these types of interviews the best.

[@christians131]

His book, You Are Worth It: Building a Life Worth Fighting For is excellent. I had a hard time putting it down and there were a few parts that brought tears to my eyes

[@ElliottRodgers]

Am from UK and that made my eyes leak. What an amazimg brave warrior, an outstanding human being.

[@chrisgibson1934]

What a Man so Humble i hope the rest of his life is easy.👍👍

[@castlecircle7612]

"And we'll be right back with Mark Ruffalo." A sardonic chuckle as i shake my head. God Bless that young man.

[@PHXSJAZ]

Still brings tears to my eyes.

[@MacDaddyRico]

As a veteran, I am saddened and angered by the fact that this man, along with his fellow brothers and sisters in arms, are used as fodder in illegal wars based on lies...Used to kill innocent people in foreign, sovereign countries... And the ignorance of the population regarding these facts is equally as angering... Afghanistan and Iraq had NOTHING to do with 9/11 (that was israel and the USA, by the way)...

[@SusanRodgers-fw3nf]

Letterman was a class act. Thank you for your service, young man!

[@normanappel5412]

That is what a HERO looks and acts like !!! Not a guy or gal that can throw , hit , dribble a ball !!

[@hemantbavle920]

Respect to the soldier. They may belong to any nation. But they fight for honor, respect and their motherland. God bless these souls and their families! - RESPECT FROM India 🇮🇳

[@alanhillier1033]

What a credit to the USA this young man is…..all the best from the UK 🇬🇧&🇺🇸

[@JensSchraeder]

I am a Canadian and I for one applaud the USMC and the whole military. It is because of their sacrifice that all of us are free. I love America and American people. The true home of the brave.

[@nicol1013]

What a hero, god bless you sir. Thank you for your service 😢

[@pr1smYT]

This dude looks great for what he's been through! He is a true hero and very lucky.

[@scottbg1]

I'm not usually an emotional guy, but nothing hits me in the feels more than honorable men doing honorable things. God bless this young man and his character and sacrifice.

[@marcrobinson8501]

I've seen Kyle speak before, and what happened to him is amazing, and his response is overwhelming. This young man is an outstanding and encouraging example of all those who've served this great nation. I think those who serve and Kyle deserve everything from us. Period. Everything. Thanks to those that serve us.

[@lucianonisi6987]

Respect - the ultimate sacrifice standing in harms way to save others. - Canadian Airborne Medic

[@richardcales6347]

That marine is one amazing young man to have gone threw all that and to still have smile on his face & to be able to talk about it is amazing in its self.

[@lynneferencik1378]

This is what a true hero is! Thank you Cpl. Carpenter! - R.Ferencik

[@TheTLElliott]

His team drew the short straw, knew they would be attacked-- and saddled up and headed out to execute the mission. Their training, their leadership, their total commitment-- so much to be proud of.