A Minneapolis student who shielded a classmate during a shooting at a school Mass in 2025 has been honored for what officials called “extraordinary bravery far beyond his years.”
Victor Greenawalt, a student at Annunciation Catholic School, received a Citizen Honors Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society March 25 and was named a 2026 Young Hero Honoree for his “courage, sacrifice and selfless service” during the Aug. 27 attack at the school’s church.
When gunfire broke out during the all-school Mass, Victor covered classmate Weston Halsne with his body and also shielded other children, according to the society.
“Instinctively, Victor protected a classmate with his own body, directly saving their life during the attack,” the society said in a news release.
Victor, who was 10 at the time, suffered head and back wounds but continued helping others in the melee, family members and school officials said.
“He acted incredibly bravely and instinctively,” Weston’s mother, Katie Halsne, said in a video released by the society. "And it wasn't just Weston that he shielded, there were other children as well."
Weston said the outcome was no surprise to those who know Victor.
"If one friend did that, it would for sure be him," Weston said.
Annunciation Principal Matt DeBoer said Victor’s actions brought calm in the chaotic aftermath, including for first responders.
"Victor having been there brought some comfort to people that day," DeBoer said in a video released by the society. "His bravery, his courage really shined forth, not just for the children — for those first responders that showed up — to basically have a child ministering to them on one of the hardest days of their careers."
Victor's parents said his actions reflected the character he had long shown. His mother, Annie Greenawalt, called him a loyal friend, while his father, Zac Greenawalt, said the boy is active in basketball, baseball, Cub Scouts, and school patrols.
"He really shines when someone is in need," Zac said.
The family said the recognition has helped them find meaning in the months since the shooting.
"We're trying to find some good that came out of it and this recognition is one way we can find good," Zac said.
The award was presented on National Medal of Honor Day. The society said five individuals and one nonprofit organization were selected this year through a national nomination and review process for acts of courage, sacrifice, and service.