Sgt. Rafael Peralta
U.S. Marine Corps — Iraq War
April 7, 1979 – November 15, 2004
Hometown: San Diego, California (born in Mexico)
A Marine’s Path
Sergeant Rafael Peralta served with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines during Operation Phantom Fury in Fallujah, Iraq.
He was known as a leader who took care of his Marines first—steady under pressure and respected by those beside him.
The House in Fallujah
On November 15, 2004, during intense urban combat in Fallujah, Sgt. Peralta and his team entered a house suspected of enemy presence.
Inside, they encountered insurgents at close range.
Peralta was shot and severely wounded during the firefight.
Moments later, a grenade landed near the Marines.
Despite his condition, Peralta reached out… and pulled the grenade into his body, absorbing the blast and protecting his fellow Marines.
A Marine’s Final Act
In the chaos of close combat, with seconds to act, Sgt. Peralta made a choice that saved lives.
His actions remain one of the most powerful examples of selflessness in modern warfare.
Decorations & Honors
Navy Cross • Purple Heart
Final Resting Place
Sgt. Rafael Peralta rests with honor at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, California.
Reflection
In the tightest spaces… in the hardest moments… one Marine chose others over himself.
Sgt. Peralta showed that courage does not wait—it acts.
mickyspano.com and The Micky Spano Show proudly honor Sergeant Rafael Peralta, United States Marine Corps, as Veteran of the Day for April 10, 2026, remembering his courage, his sacrifice, and his unwavering devotion to his fellow Marines.
Honor The Fallen | Support The Living | Teach The Next Generation
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