Earl I. Covel

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Earl I. Covel, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in action on 18 June to 19 June 2004 against an armed enemy, while serving as the Tactical Air Control Party from the 5th Air Support Operatios Squadron, for Detachment Alpha 575, Company A, 3d Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne). His exceptional devotion to duty and outstanding bravery proved instrumental in the Detachment’s successful defense against attacking terrorists. Staff Sergeant Covel’s uncommon heroism is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), and the United States Air Force.