The True Story Behind Ray Mendoza’s ‘Warfare’
Mendoza received a Silver Star for his actions that day in Iraq.
The film WARFARE follows a platoon of U.S. Navy SEALs on a surveillance mission gone wrong in November 2006, during a battle against insurgents in Ramadi Province, Iraq. The film from A24 is based on true events. Among them is the experience of Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza, who received a Silver Star for his actions that day in Iraq. Read the citation, below for Mendoza’s Silver Star.
Ray Mendoza Silver Star Citation
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Special Warfare Operator First Class (SEAL) Ray Mendoza, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Lead Communicator, Naval Special Warfare Task Unit-Ramadi, in direct support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 19 November 2006.
During a Sniper over-watch mission in the dangerous city of Ramadi, Iraq, Petty Officer Mendoza’s position was attacked with grenade and small arms fire from multiple enemy locations, wounding one SEAL.
Upon moving the wounded SEAL to the extract platform, there was a massive explosion, killing one Iraqi Army scout and wounding seven other members of the element.
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With total disregard for his own life, Petty Officer Mendoza heroically left the safety of his fortified position to engage multiple enemy positions. He advanced into the middle of the street under heavy enemy fire to drag one of the two severely wounded SEALs away from the coordinated enemy ambush.
Petty Officer Mendoza then rendered life saving medical care to the wounded SEAL, stopping massive blood loss from multiple wounds and compound fractures.
Upon arrival of the casualty evacuation platform, he carried the wounded SEAL through withering enemy fire to the safety of the extract vehicle.
Petty Officer Mendoza’s bold leadership, courageous actions, and complete devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.