U.S. Army
NEW DORP — The Staten Island soldier killed while protecting a Polish colleague in Afghanistan has been awarded the Silver Star, the Army Times reported.
Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, 24, who died during an Aug. 28 attack on his base in Ghanzi, stepped between a suicide bomber and a Polish soldier to protect him, the Army Times said.
The Silver Star is the third highest award for valor given by the US Army.
Ollis was already a decorated soldier, having previously received numerous awards and medals for his service, including the Bronze Star and four army commendations, a spokesman for the US Army base in Fort Drum said.