Chad M. Stephens

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Chad M. Stephens, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Platoon Sergeant with Company A, 1st Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Brigade, during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 24 June 2004, in Iraq. Sergeant First Class Stephens heroically and without regard for his personal safety, led his platoon in heavy combat with enemy attempting to control the city. After fighting through two ambushes, he led his platoon to a casualty collection point to treat the wounded. To evacuate the gunner of his wingman, Sergeant First Class Stephens crossed 50 meters in open terrain while small arms impacted all around him as he ran. He mounted the turret and pulled his soldier out of the hatch, then lowered him to the waiting medics as rounds impacted the vehicle and other soldiers drove to safety. He returned to his vehicle under continuing fire, reorganized the platoon and led the move to Forward Operating Base Gabe, fighting on as his Bradley was hit by a rocket propelled grenade and his gunner was severely wounded. Sergeant First Class Stephens’ courage under fire is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 30th Brigade and the United States Army National Guard.