Medal of Honor Marine Jason Dunham Documentary | Streaming Jan. 21

A documentary about the heroic actions of Medal of Honor recipient Jason Dunham is set to premiere on Prime Video, Apple TV+, and other streaming platforms on Jan. 21, 2025, according to filmmaker David Kniess. The documentary, titled “The Gift,” tells the story of Cpl. Jason Dunham, a native of Scio, NY, who sacrificed his life to save his fellow Marines during the Iraq War.

For several years, David Kniess has been working on this project, which delves into Dunham’s courageous act and its aftermath on the lives of the men he saved. The film had a condensed version screened at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in July 2022 and later at the Jason Dunham Memorial Golf Tournament in Wellsville.

After winning several awards at film festivals in 2023, including at the GI Film Festival in San Diego, “The Gift” is finally making its way to streaming platforms for a wider audience to see and appreciate the legacy of Jason Dunham.

The documentary highlights the events of April 14, 2004, when Dunham covered a grenade with his helmet in order to shield his comrades from the blast during an ambush in Iraq. His selfless act ultimately cost him his life, but saved the lives of those around him. Kniess, the director of the film, had a chance encounter with Dunham in 2002 and later formed a close relationship with his parents after his passing.

Through interviews with Dunham’s fellow Marines and support from the veteran community, Kniess was able to bring this powerful story to life. The documentary explores the impact Dunham’s actions had on his comrades, his hometown of Scio, NY, and beyond, shedding light on the lasting effects of trauma and the power of selflessness.

Jason Dunham’s legacy lives on through various tributes in Scio, including a Navy destroyer named in his honor, a state highway, a post office, and a scholarship for local students. The annual Jason Dunham Memorial Golf Tournament continues to benefit veteran-focused organizations and support local causes, ensuring that Dunham’s sacrifice is never forgotten.