(Washington, D.C. –  The Congressional Medal of Honor Society on Thursday, announced that Perry Principal Dan Marburger will be posthumously awarded the Citizen Honors Award by Medal of Honor Recipients. A panel of Medal of Honor Recipients reviewed nominations from around the country and chose five individuals and one non-profit organization to receive the Citizen Honors Award, an award given to those who exemplify the ideals of the Medal of Honor — courage, sacrifice, integrity, commitment, citizenship, and patriotism.  Perry Principal Dan Marburger was one of the five selected to receive the award for his brave and selfless actions during the January 4, 2024 shooting at Perry High School that resulted in the death of himself and sixth-grade student Ahmir Jolliff.

Congressional Medal of Honor

The CMH Society says in honoring Marburger with a Single Act of Heroism Award, “Principal Dan Marburger demonstrated extraordinary heroism during the tragic shooting at Perry High School on January 4, 2024, when a student opened fire inside the school. Marburger selflessly confronted the shooter in the hallway, putting himself in harm’s way to protect others. Despite being shot, he continued engaging with the shooter, enabling students and staff to evacuate to safety. Marburger was struck four times during this brave intervention and managed to walk to safety, but ultimately lost his life due to his injuries. His courageous actions exemplified the highest level of dedication to protecting his students and staff, making the ultimate sacrifice in service of others.”

The award ceremony will take place in Arlington, Virginia on March 25th.