Arkansas Governor Awards Medal of Freedom Posthumously

Chief Petty Officer Adam Brown, a Navy SEAL killed in action, honored for courage and sacrifice

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas awarded the Arkansas Medal of Freedom posthumously to Chief Petty Officer Adam Brown, a Navy SEAL from Hot Springs who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2010 while serving with SEAL Team Six. The award recognizes Arkansans who have distinguished themselves through extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and service to the state and their fellow citizens.

Why it matters

The Arkansas Medal of Freedom was established by Governor Sanders to honor the state's most courageous and selfless citizens. Awarding it posthumously to Chief Petty Officer Brown highlights his legacy of bravery and the lasting impact of his sacrifice in service of his country.

The details

Brown grew up in Hot Springs and joined the Navy in 1998, completing the rigorous SEAL training before serving with the elite SEAL Team Six. On March 17, 2010, he was killed in action during a mission in Afghanistan's Kunar Province targeting a senior Taliban commander. Brown volunteered to advance toward the enemy compound under heavy fire in order to protect his teammates and complete the mission, which was ultimately successful due in large part to his actions.

  • Governor Sanders established the Arkansas Medal of Freedom during her State of the State Address last year.
  • The award ceremony honoring Chief Petty Officer Brown took place on Friday, March 7, 2026.

The players

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders

The current Governor of Arkansas who established the Arkansas Medal of Freedom and presented it posthumously to Chief Petty Officer Brown.

Chief Petty Officer Adam Brown

A Navy SEAL from Hot Springs, Arkansas who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2010 while serving with SEAL Team Six. He was posthumously awarded the Arkansas Medal of Freedom for his extraordinary courage and sacrifice.

Mike Knoedl

The inaugural recipient of the Arkansas Medal of Freedom, awarded by Governor Sanders.

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What they’re saying

“Chief Petty Officer Brown's courage and sacrifice serve as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication of those who defend our nation and the lasting legacy they leave behind.”

— Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Governor of Arkansas (ktlo.com)

The takeaway

The posthumous awarding of the Arkansas Medal of Freedom to Chief Petty Officer Adam Brown underscores the state's commitment to honoring its most courageous citizens and preserving the legacies of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of their country and community.