8 Seconds of Courage: A Soldier’s Story from Immigrant to the Medal of Honor Audiobook (Free)

Within an inspiring story of valor as well as the making of the hero, Florent Groberg—who grew up in France and emigrated towards the US—becomes the first immigrant in forty years to get the Congressional Medal of Honor after he tackled a suicide bomber in Afghanistan.

Florent “Flo” Groberg was born in the suburbs of Paris and moved to the united states along with his family in middle school. He became a naturalized citizen in 2001. After going to the School of Maryland, he became a member of the US Military and double deployed to about 8 Mere seconds of Courage: A Soldier’s Tale from Immigrant to the Medal of Honor Afghanistan. In August of 2012, Flo was guarding a high-level US-Afghan delegation and observed someone dubious: an area man stumbling toward his patrol. Flo reacted quickly and went to deal with the guy—who was wearing a suicide vest. Four people passed away in the next explosion, but many others had been spared. Flo himself spent another three years going through surgeries at Walter Reed Medical Center, and in 2015 he was given the nation’s highest armed service honor, the Congressional Medal of Honor—the initial immigrant to become so recognized since the Vietnam War.

What prepares a soldier for all those critical occasions in combat? 8 Mere seconds of Courage tells Flo’s story from his youth in France to his decision to enlist as well as the grueling teaching he underwent at US Army Ranger School. As a field commander on the front lines in Afghanistan he formed close and lasting bonds with his fellow military. It had been this powerful sense of responsibility that compelled him to do this to save lots of lives, also at the risk of his own.

“Flo’s incredible story of bravery and program is also a stark reminder that for most of our warriors, coming real estate is not the finish of the battle. Flo finds ways to live…Truly an inspiration” (Jon Stewart). In his personal phrases, Flo provides that essential understanding into his selfless action while remembering his four fallen brothers in arms. 8 Seconds of Courage is usually a story of heroism, sacrifice, and camaraderie in wartime.