Transcript: Lt. Col. William Swenson (Ret.) and Command Sergeant Major Matthew Williams (Ret.) on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,” May 24, 2026

Transcript: Lt. Col. William Swenson (Ret.) and Command Sergeant Major Matthew Williams (Ret.) on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 24, 2026

Interview Highlights on Valor, Service, and the Legacy of the Medal of Honor

Transcript - The following is the transcript of a segment featuring retired Lt. Col. William Swenson and retired Command Sergeant Major Matthew Williams, who were both honored with the Medal of Honor for acts of bravery during their deployments in Afghanistan. The conversation, hosted by Margaret Brennan on "Face the Nation," delves into the profound meaning of the award and its enduring impact on military service.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Today, we’re joined by two remarkable individuals who have been recognized with the nation’s highest military honor—the Medal of Honor. Retired Command Sergeant Major Matt Williams and retired Lieutenant Colonel William Swenson both served in Afghanistan, where their courage during critical moments earned them this prestigious distinction. It’s an honor to have you both here.

COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR MATT WILLIAMS (RET.): Thank you, Margaret. It’s a privilege to share our experiences and reflect on what this honor truly signifies.

MARGARET BRENNAN: The Medal of Honor is often described as embodying the pinnacle of military valor. Its criteria highlight bravery, sacrifice, integrity, and a commitment to the greater good. How do you personally interpret this award’s significance?

LT. COLONEL WILLIAM SWENSON (RET.): Military service carries a universal essence, rooted in shared ideals. When someone chooses to enlist, they are not merely taking on a role—they are pledging to uphold the values that define our nation’s freedom. That commitment is evident in the risks we accept, the training we undergo, and the responsibilities we carry. In our case, the Medal of Honor was a recognition of our collective effort to protect those around us. While we believe our actions were nothing more than the natural outcome of our training and duty, it’s humbling to be acknowledged for something so critical.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Will, your perspective resonates. What do you think this honor means to you personally?

MATT WILLIAMS: It’s not just about the medal itself, but the story it tells. For me, it represents the unbreakable bond between soldiers and the willingness to step up when the stakes are highest. We joined the military during a time of significant global conflict, serving in wars across two fronts—Iraq and Afghanistan. Choosing special operations was a way to immerse ourselves in the challenges of those regions. Every mission we undertook, whether on foot or in helicopters, was a test of our resolve. That day, when the situation demanded it, I had the chance to act for my comrades, and I did so without hesitation.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Matt, you mentioned serving “outside the wire.” Could you explain what that phrase means in the context of your experiences?

MATT WILLIAMS: “Outside the wire” refers to the moments when we step beyond the safety of our bases to engage directly with the enemy. It’s about venturing into uncertainty, where the line between danger and duty blurs. When we leave the relative security of our firebases, whether in vehicles or on patrol, we’re not just participating in combat—we’re embodying the spirit of sacrifice. The training we received was designed to prepare us for these situations, but the true test comes when we’re faced with the unknown. That’s where trust in our team becomes vital. You rely on the person next to you to cover your back, and in return, you do the same for them.

MARGARET BRENNAN: It’s clear that the Medal of Honor isn’t just a personal achievement but a symbol of collective effort. How do you see the role of teamwork in earning such recognition?

LT. COLONEL SWENSON: Teamwork is the foundation of military service. Each act of heroism is not isolated—it’s a product of the unit’s unity and the shared purpose we carry. When we’re in the field, we’re not just fighting for ourselves; we’re fighting for the people who depend on us. The medal isn’t a reward for individual glory, but for the unwavering support and coordination that make a mission succeed. I firmly believe that the men and women I served alongside would have made the same choice, given the same circumstances. That’s the heart of what it means to be part of a team.

MARGARET BRENNAN: You both emphasize the importance of camaraderie. How has that bond shaped your understanding of the Medal of Honor?

MATT WILLIAMS: The bond between soldiers is something unique. In the chaos of battle, you’re not just a soldier—you’re a brother or sister in arms. That connection is what allows us to push through fear and make split-second decisions. The Medal of Honor isn’t just about one person’s courage; it’s about the entire unit’s readiness to act. We often say that every act of valor is a team effort, and this award is a way to honor that collective spirit.

MARGARET BRENNAN: With over 3,500 Americans having received this honor since its inception, what do you think makes each story unique while still reflecting the same core values?

LT. COLONEL SWENSON: While the number is impressive, the diversity of these stories is what truly captures the essence of the medal. Each recipient has their own narrative—whether it’s a moment of selfless action, a decision made under extreme pressure, or a sacrifice that redefines what it means to serve. The Medal of Honor is a testament to the human capacity for bravery, even in the face of overwhelming odds. It’s a reminder that heroism isn’t limited to a single event but is woven into the fabric of our military’s history.

MARGARET BRENNAN: You also mentioned that the medal represents more than just the stories we see. What about those that remain untold?

MATT WILLIAMS: That’s a powerful point. The Medal of Honor is more than a symbol—it’s a beacon for the countless acts of valor that go unnoticed. For every story we read about in the headlines, there are others that never make it to the public eye. These are the moments where a soldier’s instinct takes over, and their actions save lives without fanfare. The medal is a way to acknowledge those sacrifices, even if they’re not widely known. It’s not just about the individual who wears it today; it’s about the legacy they carry forward for those who may never return home.

MARGARET BRENNAN: What advice would you give to young people considering a career in service, especially in light of the sacrifices involved?

LT. COLONEL SWENSON: I would encourage them to embrace the journey. Serving our country is not just about the dangers we face; it’s about the purpose and pride that come with it. The Medal of Honor is a reminder that even in the most challenging moments, the values we uphold guide us. It’s about being ready to do what’s right, even when the cost is high. That’s the essence of being a soldier, and it’s a calling that few can fully grasp until they experience it firsthand.

MARGARET BRENNAN: And for those who haven’t been recognized with this honor, what message would you share about the importance of their contributions?

MATT WILLIAMS: Everyone in uniform plays a role in the success of our mission