Air Force

ACHEY, STEPHEN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Stephen Achey, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States at the Shahi Hot Valley, Afghanistan, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 2 March 2002. On that date, while performing the duties of Enlisted Terminal Attack Controller, 20th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, Air Combat Center, Combined Forces Land Component Commander, Company C, 1-87 Battalion, 10th Mountain Division, for Operation ANACONDA, Airman Achey assaulted into heavily defended territory and immediately began taking heavy fire. Hit and thrown, but undeterred by the effects of a mortar round exploding within a few feet of him, Airman Achey returned fire and called for close air support. Unable to contact any aircraft and with his radio now destroyed, Airman Achey braved the intense enemy fire to link up with another controller. Airman Achey contacted a reconnaissance aircraft and relayed his unit's situation to the orbiting command and control aircraft. Airman Achey and the other controller took cover and began deriving coordinates to attack the enemy. Realizing a necessary piece of equipment was left in the line of fire and with complete disregard for his personal safety, Airman Achey boldly ran out to retrieve the equipment. Under a hail of machine gun fire, he gathered the equipment and made it back to cover. The subsequent air strikes suppressed the enemy, allowing the unit to reposition to better ground. Now receiving sniper fire, Airman Achey quickly called a break maneuver, avoiding damage and possible loss of the aircraft and crew. Alternating between radio and his rifle, Airman Achey shored up a hole in the defenses and provided covering fire for the removal of the wounded. During the action, Airman Achey shot and killed three enemy soldiers. Throughout the battle, Airman Achey repeatedly placed himself at risk to assist the wounded. As night fell, Airman Achey orchestrated a gunship and fighter attack that destroyed numerous enemy positions and facilitated the extraction of the wounded. His courageous and aggressive acts against a determined enemy vowing to fight to the death directly affected the outcome of the battle. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Achey has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Sumter, South Carolina

BARNETT, CHRISTOPHER C.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Christopher C. Barnett, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as flight lead and mission commander, Shocker 35, 34th Weapons Squadron, 129th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, near Kajaki, Afghanistan on 4 April 2009. On that date, Colonel Barnett led his HH-60G formation through firefights and a blinding sandstorm in near zero visibility executing a critical casualty evacuation when he received word of a Special Forces convoy under attack by a large enemy force. Colonel Barnett led his flight to the convoy location, where the arrival of the two heavily armed helicopters caused the enemy to instantly break contact and retreat. Despite extreme risk from surface to air fire, Colonel Barnett executed numerous show of force events to keep the enemy at bay. Alerted to a second team pinned down by heavy machine gun fire, under attack from three locations, and in danger of being overrun, he quickly moved to provide support. With fixed wing ordnance detonating on all sides and complete disregard for his own safety, he closed his aircraft to within 20 meters of the enemy, exposing themselves to harrowing fire to pinpoint the besieged team. Through a hail of intense enemy machine gun fire, Colonel Barnett expertly executed a fixed forward gunnery attack, knocking out enemy machine gun positions. He continued to direct the flight in a series of devastating attacks until the enemy positions were destroyed. Despite critically low fuel levels, he remained overhead the team securing the objective. Engaged by rocket propelled grenade fire, Colonel Barnett led the flight in a series of attacks, destroying another enemy position, causing the enemy to withdraw. Colonel Barnett's heroic actions this day saved the lives of one Afghan National Army and 40 Special Forces soldiers. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Colonel Barnett has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

BARNETT, CHRISTOPHER C.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Christopher C. Barnett, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as HH-60G Mission Commander and Flight Lead of two helicopters of the 34th Weapons Squadron, 129th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron at Marjeh, Afghanistan from 19 May 2009 to 20 May 2009. During this period, Colonel Barnett flew into a Taliban stronghold, dodging heavy machine gun, rocket propelled grenade, and small arms fire to rescue a severely wounded soldier during an intense four day battle. After fighting his flight back to base, he led his flight back for a second casualty rescue, despite the increased danger of returning to the same area, the proximity of enemy forces, and no close air support. As he lined up for an attack on the enemy position, his wingman suffered a catastrophic emergency. Colonel Barnett immediately aborted his attack and directed his wingman away from the threats. Exhibiting superb airmanship, Colonel Barnett shot a perfect zero visibility approach despite overwhelming ground fire. Colonel Barnett was then called upon to return a third time to the same area, during an even more intense enemy attack. With enemy forces surrounding the zone, they were choice targets for enemy forces which directed intense and accurate rocket propelled grenade, mortar, and heavy machine gun fire at the helicopters. Colonel Barnett executed multiple dry attack runs, covering his wingman's landing, when a mortar salvo detonated directly beneath his aircraft, nearly knocking it out of the air. Despite the enemy fire from all directions, he remained in position to cover his wingman. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Colonel Barnett has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

BARTLEY, BURT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Burt Bartley, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force, for his leadership in the rescue of a downed MH-47 helicopter crew during Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan in March 2002. (Bartley commanded the 354th FS from Eielson AFB, Alaska, at the time.) With survivors pinned down by enemy fire, two orbiting F-15E crews out of ordnance, and flying in mountainous terrain under constant small arms fire, Bartley made two strafing runs to help neutralize enemy positions and allow survivors to find cover and care for the wounded. After refueling, he immediately returned to the site, coordinated with the ground forward air controller, and conducted a series of bombing runs, closing to within one hundred meters of the crash site. Bartley protected the survivors for more than two hours. He ensured that two critically injured soldiers were safely airlifted out and provided close air support for ground troops and cover for rescue helicopters until reinforcements arrived. His outstanding airmanship in an extreme combat environment led to the recovery of thirty-nine American soldiers

BLOUT, MICHAEL T.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Michael T. Blout, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States at Wardak Province, Afghanistan, on 23 October 2012. On that day, Sergeant Blout served as the primary Joint Terminal Attack Controller assigned to an Army Special Forces Team. While conducting operation AMAL KARD SYGANA II, Sergeant Blout received radio traffic indicating an Army Special Forces teammate required immediate medical attention after sustaining wounds form an enemy ambush. Reacting instinctively, Sergeant Blout sprinted 1.6 kilometers towards the sounds of enemy fire to assist his wounded comrade. Coordinating with aircraft orbiting overhead, Sergeant Blout ascertained the location of wounded personnel and directed friendly maneuver elements to converge in support. Sergeant Blout simultaneously used air assets to monitor and track enemy movements. Arriving at the scene of the ambushed friendly element, Sergeant Blout raced across open ground while under direct and accurate enemy fire, placing himself between his wounded teammate and the enemy in order to return fire and protect his fallen comrade and the medic furiously working to save his life. While exchanging direct fire with the enemy, Sergeant Blout orchestrated close air support to keep the enemy at bay and coordinated for the arrival of medical evacuation assets. Hearing the rotor blades of incoming evacuation helicopters, Sergeant Blout marked an impromptu landing zone while still under heavy enemy fire, and aborted the first landing attempt due to the volume and accuracy of insurgent small arms and machine gun fire. Without regard for his own safety, Sergeant Blout placed himself between the landing zone and the enemy and urged his teammates forward, screening the landing and enabling the evacuation of friendly forces. As medical evacuation assets departed, Sergeant Blout immediately directed attack helicopter strafing runs against the enemy positions while friendly forces reconsolidated and retrograded back to covered and concealed positions. Sergeant Blout's courageous and decisive action at the hasty helicopter landing zone against superior firepower was directly responsible for rallying the quick reaction force, and preventing friendly maneuver elements from being overrun. His heroism under withering enemy fire disrupted attacking enemy forces, and prevented the sue loss of coalition air assets. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Blout has reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Home Town: New Bern, North Carolina

BOTINE, ALAN
Synopsis:
Lieutenant Colonel Alan Botine, United States Air Force, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action while flying in support of coalition forces in Iraq in 2003. Colonel Botine was informed of a UH-60 helicopter shot down inside territory controlled by hostile Iraqi forces. Proceeding immediately to the area, he established initial on scene commander duties for the combat search and rescue effort, eventually controlling over 30 coalition aircraft in the rescue. Within an hour of locating the crew, Colonel Botine found himself not only defending against five SA-2 engagements by a Fan Song target tracking radar, but performing a high risk, extremely low altitude daylight pass to identify a column of vehicles nearing the crash site in order to prevent fratricide. As the night progressed, rapidly deteriorating weather eventually forced flight below five thousand feet in the middle of heavy anti-aircraft fire to maintain coverage of the four survivors. Running out of time, Colonel Botine took extraordinary measures in finding and leading the coalition Apache helicopters to the crash site by flying at very low altitudes, on the edge of a stall, with all external lights illuminated on three separate occasions. During a sortie that stretched ten and a half hours and six aerial refueling, Colonel Botine ensured the fellow Americans were provided protection while he repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire.

BRANDENBURG, ERIC, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Eric Brandenburg, Jr., Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 17th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, in support of elements of the U.S. Army's 75th Ranger Regiment, during the opening stages of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in late March and early April 2003. Sergeant Brandenburg distinguished himself during a 3-day firefight in Iraq as the terminal attack controller noncommissioned officer in charge while attached to a ranger battalion near western Iraq. With rocket-propelled grenades exploding over his head, Technical Sergeant Brandenburg fought off the enemy while requesting and controlling close air support. He moved forward through the intense firefight to get better vantage points to control the air strikes and was actually blown into the air by an exploding artillery shell.
Home Town: Ashland, Kentucky

BROWN, GABRIEL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gabriel Brown, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Combat Controller with the 17th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM during Operation ANACONDA in Afghanistan on 4 March 2002.

BRYANT, PHILIP A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Philip A. Bryant, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, on 23 April 2011. On that date as Aircraft Commander of Pedro 84, 83d Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, chalk two in a formation of HH-60G Pavehawk Helicopters, Major Bryant led his crew in the recovery of two United States Army pilots downed in the Allasay Valley, an enemy controlled area east of Bagram. During the initial 180 foot hoist insertion of team members at the crash site, his aircraft was engaged by a volley of enemy fire, that caused severe damage to flight control systems and seriously wounded his flight engineer. Major Bryant maneuvered to escape the hot recovery zone and assessed the injury and immediately directed his aircraft back to base. After delivering his engineer to life saving medical care, he obtained a replacement crew member to continue the flight. Major Bryant rejoined his flight and attempted a hoist extraction of one of the isolated pilots and team, now pinned down by enemy fire. While in a hover, his aircraft was engaged from both sides, sending rounds striking two of his crew members and missing his own head by inches. After the lead aircraft was forced to depart for fuel, he recognized the dire situation that the enemy presented to the isolated team, and coordinated with AH-64D Attack Weapons Teams to cover a single ship rescue. His aircraft was once again targeted and received enemy rounds but finally forced to abort when engaged by heavy enemy fire at the crash site. Major Bryant rejoined with his flight lead and commanded his aircraft five more times into enemy fire, which ultimately recovered the downed pilots, his teams, and a Soldier critically wounded in the effort. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Bryant has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Colorado Springs, Colorado

CAHILL, THOMAS J., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas J. Cahill, Jr., First Lieutenant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Helicopter Rescue Pilot of the 66th Rescue Squadron, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM during Operation ANACONDA in Afghanistan on 3 March 2002. On that date First Lieutenant Cahill piloted his HH-60G helicopter in darkness and saved three lives, including that of a critically wounded man a few miles from the Roberts Ridge battle site. While he expertly navigated the flight through enemy-controlled mountainous terrain he was targeted by mortar fire and his aircraft's motor speed began to decay due to the high gross weight and density altitude. If not for Lieutenant Cahill's uncanny skills, it would have continued to decay, resulting in a crash.
Special Order No. 0063

CAMPBELL, CLINT T.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Clint T. Campbell, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States near Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, on 4 August 2010. On that date, while serving as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller of the 23d Special Tactics Squadron, attached to an Army Special Forces detachment, Sergeant Campbell, his team, and their Afghan partners conducted a 10 hour clearance operation in the village of Zharif Kheyl, Afghanistan. Throughout the day they were continuously harassed by enemy fire while Sergeant Campbell directed 22 airstrikes, including multiple danger close employments, resulting in 13 enemy killed. When the friendly force departed the village, they were ambushed by 45 insurgents with effective machine gun and rocket-propelled grenade fire. With the entire force pinned down and with reports of three urgent casualties at the southern position, Sergeant Campbell took decisive action. Without regard for his own safety, he ran 300 meters through a gauntlet of enemy fire. As rocket-propelled grenades exploded just feet away and tracer rounds passed within inches, Sergeant Campbell engaged enemy fighters with his rifle and killed one insurgent with a hand grenade at a distance of 15 feet. Upon arriving at the casualty collection point, he exposed himself to enemy fire to mark insurgent positions with a 40 millimeter smoke grenade and directed an F-16 strafing run to neutralize the threat and enable evacuation of the wounded. He then directed the decimation of the enemy with 10 strikes from OH-58 aircraft while coordinating with other air assets to vector the friendly force out of the kill zone. Sergeant Campbell's bravery in the face of withering enemy fire turned the tide of the battle, defeated the ambush, saved three teammates' lives, and prevented certain additional casualties. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Campbell has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

CASE, THOMAS E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Thomas E. Case, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a member of the 17th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, in action near western Iraq, from 31 March 2003 to 5 April 2003. During this period, while serving as an Enlisted Terminal Attack Controller for Company B, 3d Ranger Battalion, his company began receiving heavy direct and effective small arms fire, ZPU-23s, rocket propelled grenades, mortar and artillery fire. Though the situation was bleak and the small force was in danger of being overrun, Sergeant Case reacted quickly. While engaging the enemy with his personal weapon, often within 30 meters of his position, he simultaneously directed air strikes. After three days of continuous firefight, they began receiving heavy and accurate artillery fire, over 300 rounds within eight hours. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Case exposed himself to this unrelenting attack to control close air support while fragments of concrete and shrapnel from the blasts punctured his rucksack and often knocked him to the ground. At one point he controlled fourteen aircraft simultaneously. Refusing to be relieved until the objective was secure, Sergeant Case was responsible for more than 300 enemy casualties and the destruction of 29 tanks, three heavy cargo trucks, nine S-60s, fourteen anti-aircraft pieces, nine 155-millimeter artillery, twenty-two 82-millimeter mortar, six 60-millimeter mortars, eight ammunition caches and ten enemy boats. His situational awareness, skill as a controller, and courage under fire were decisive in the battle and ensured mission success and the safety of 152 Rangers. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Case has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

CASE, THOMAS E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Army Award) to Technical Sergeant Thomas E. Case, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while serving with the 17th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, from 16 July 2009 to 17 July 2009 during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States, as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller for a Joint Task Force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. During this period, Sergeant Case's professionalism and heroism under extreme danger enabled his Assault Force to complete its mission while under heavy fire from enemy combatants and prevented further friendly casualties. Technical Sergeant Case's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this Command, the United States Air Force, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Master Sergeant Thomas Case, United States Air Force, heroically distinguished himself through gallantry as a tactical air control party in Afghanistan for a Classified Special Operations Task Force from 16 July 2009 to 17 July 2009. During one mission Sergeant Case and his platoon conducted a nighttime operation deep into the Khowst-Gardez Pass in order to capture or kill an enemy combatant and to destroy mountain camps utilized by insurgent forces in the area. Due to weight restrictions on the helicopters used to insert Sergeant Case's platoon, his platoon was inserted approximately 30 minutes after the lead platoon's insertion. With the helicopter landing zone at eight thousand five hundred feet mean sea level, they began an arduous five kilometer foot movement towards the target area located at eight thousand eight hundred forty two feet mean sea level. As the platoon maneuvered to the target area, Sergeant Case maintained control of the aircraft supporting this operation. He utilized an AC-130 gunship and manned intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft to maintain senor coverage of the target area as well as the infiltration route. After moving nearly one thousand feet up mountainous terrain, Sergeant Case realized they were off their planned route and notified his ground force commander in order to get the assault force moving in the right direction. At that time the platoon came into decisive contact with an enemy machine gun position approximately fifteen meters away and perched above them in the high ground. Pinned down in the center of the platoon's formation, Sergeant Case recognized they needed to employ close air support. With machine guns rounds impacting the ground and trees within two feet of him, Sergeant Case remained exposed to enemy fire so he could locate the enemy position. Unfortunately, the wires on his radio were seriously damaged making it nearly impossible for him to communicate with their supporting aircraft. After identifying and troubleshooting the problem, Sergeant Case was able to hold the wires together and request immediate close air support from the gunship. With the gunship in an offset orbit for noise mitigation and needing approximately two minutes to reposition in order to support, Sergeant Case requested an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance update from the aircraft supporting overhead. After he was told the enemy was approximately fifteen meters away, Sergeant Case stood up while under enemy fire in order to take charge of five support personnel attached to the platoon. With enemy gunfire continuing to impact within feet of his position and whizzing by his head, he laid down suppressive fire with his M4 rifle and expertly directed the five enablers to move behind cover. Afterwards, Sergeant Case briefed his close air support plan to the ground force commander and then employed his damaged radio to call for danger close AC-130 engagement on the enemy position. Due to the extreme close proximity of friendly forces to the enemy, and with bullets still hitting within feet of his position, he again willingly stood up while under fire in order to make sure the rounds from the AC-130 hit the correct target area. After the second danger close mission Sergeant Case saw two enemy fighters, armed with AK-47s, bounding down the hill and shooting at him and the ground force commander. As they closed within fifteen meters of their position, Sergeant Case literally placed himself between the enemy personnel and the ground force commander in order to protect him from their gunfire. Employing his M-4 rifle and directing the ground force commander to take cover, he then killed both insurgents, both of whom turned out to be highly trained foreign fighters. As the fighting continued, the enemy repositioned to even higher terrain and began to throw hand grenades down the mountain slope. One grenade exploded approximately ten meters from his position, damaging his helmet and wounding two rangers. After directing six more danger close engagements, Sergeant Case realized that he needed to link up with the lead element in order to have his eyes on the entrenched enemy position and to continue pushing the enemy back. With the dust and haze from the airstrikes bring visibility to near zero, he climbed fifty meters up a sixty degree embankment to reach the fire team leader, all while under enemy fire. Once there, he rendezvoused with the lead fire team, quickly fixed his radio, and directed four AC-130 air strikes on three enemy personnel that were approximately one hundred meter away. Shortly afterward, he and the lead element engaged two enemy personnel who flanked their position within seven meters. With the enemy located in the trees, Sergeant Case threw a grenade into their position and then followed up with his m-4 rifle to assure both insurgents were dead. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Case has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

CENNA, WILLIAM J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant William J. Cenna, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an opposing armed force near Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, on 23 April 2011. On that date, Sergeant Cenna was part of a Guardian Angel rescue team tasked to recover two United States Army pilots downed in the Tagab Valley, and enemy controlled area east of Bagram. While on the hoist, Sergeant Cenna's Pedro 84 team took effective fire that damaged the aircraft and seriously injured one crewmember. The aircraft was forced to depart, which left Sergeant Cenna and his teammate on the ground to continue the mission. As Sergeant Cenna and his teammate traversed the rocky terrain to the crash site, they encountered effective fire from multiple enemy positions from the south and west. Reaching the crash site, Sergeant Cenna assessed the patient while his teammate conducted a search and recover sensitive items. The sun had just come up, and with the Pedro 84 gone, the insurgents voiced their intent to take individuals hostage from the crash site. Sergeant Cenna then began taking effective fire at his position next to the aircraft. As he took cover, he began to call out threats to his team leader who was coordinating with aircraft above for engagement. They talked AH-64s on to targets in the high ground and calculated reverse azimuths to identify enemy positions in the valley. One incoming round ignited fuel at the wreckage and instantly the crash site erupted in flames. Sergeant Cenna and his teammate pushed through enemy fire to an alternate hide site and continued to pass enemy locations throughout the valley. Approximately two hours into the firefight, a 16-man infantry quick reaction team was airlifted to a blocking position between the Guardian Angel team and the enemy force, and immediately took casualties. Sergeant Cenna showed great courage and heroism over the 6 hour mission. Risking his life on multiple occasions, his actions directly resulted in numerous insurgents killed in action and more importantly, enabled the recovery of the downed American pilot and killed in action infantryman, and another critically injured Soldier from enemy territory. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Cenna has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

COVEL, EARL I.
Citation:
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.
Home Town: Oregon City, Oregon

CROSBY, TRAVIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Travis Crosby, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 15th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, in Support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 4 April 2005. On that day, Sergeant Crosby served as lead Enlisted Terminal Attack Controller for 3d Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Sergeant Crosby's actions allowed the seizure of Objective Peach, a critical six-lane concrete bridge spanning the Euphrates River that provided the only feasible avenue of approach to Baghdad. As he approached the objective, his vehicle came under heavy enemy attack from a barrage of artillery, mortar, and small arms fire, as well as anti-tank missiles. While actively defending his position, Sergeant Crosby identified enemy soldiers attempting to detonate demolition charges on the bridge. Under intense enemy fire and with complete disregard for his own safety, he directed a flight of A-10 aircraft onto the enemy soldiers' position, killing them and destroying their six trucks, saving the bridge from destruction. Sergeant Crosby then controlled an additional flight of A-10 aircraft providing life-saving cover for an Army engineer team in the river, allowing the task force to safely cross the bridge. Upon crossing, Sergeant Crosby and his team were ambushed by three Iraqi tanks, numerous vehicles and dismounted infantry. The ensuring fire fight was so close that friendly and enemy vehicles were intermingled making identification from the air extremely difficult. Despite the constant rain of fire around his vehicle, Sergeant Crosby was able to successfully empty his .50 caliber machine gun on the enemy soft-skin vehicles killing over 20 enemy personnel while simultaneously directing a precision strike by a flight of A-10s destroying the enemy armor. Shortly thereafter, during a tactical pause, two Republican Guard soldiers closed to within 10 feet of his vehicle. Sergeant Crosby heroically risked life and limb by fully emerging from the protection of his vehicle and fired 15 rounds from his handgun, instantly killing the attacking enemy soldiers. Throughout the 20-hour engagement at Objective Peach, Sergeant Crosby deftly controlled eight flights of aircraft, destroying numerous enemy forces and pieces of warfighting equipment. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Crosby has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Metter, Georgia

DELANEY, TAVIS J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Technical Sergeant Tavis J. Delaney, United States Air Force, for exceptional gallantry in action as a member of the 116th Air Support Operations Squadron, Washington Air National Guard, during a complex ambush while air assaulting into the Do Ab District Center on 25 May 2011. As a JTAC with Company C, 1-33 Infantry Battalion, Technical Sergeant Delaney routinely exposed himself to intense enemy fire in order to control close air support onto the enemy positions and prevent the overrun of the U.S. defensive position. His exceptional gallantry in action, courage, dedication to duty, and personal sacrifice directly contributed to the successful defense of the air assault force from an overwhelming enemy force, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. Technical Sergeant Delaney's gallantry and heroism during combat are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect distinct credit upon himself, C Company/1-33 Infantry Battalion and the United States Army and Air Force. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Technical Sergeant Tavis J. Delaney heroically distinguished himself by gallantry in action and extremely valorous actions in the face of the enemy of the United States, while assigned as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) for C Company, 1-133d Infantry Battalion, 2d Brigade, 34th Infantry Division during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. His gallantry under fire saved the lives of more than 64 Coalition Forces, and contributed to the destruction of more than 200 Taliban insurgents. On the afternoon of 25 May 2011, Technical Sergeant Delaney air assaulted into a Landing Zone (LZ) deep inside the steep canyon walls of Do Ab, Afghanistan, with a platoon from HHC/1-133d Infantry. The walls of the valley were rocky and nearly vertical and the temperature that day in late-May was already well over 100 degrees. The LZ erupted with enemy mortar, machine gun and small arms fire in an ambush by an estimated 400 Taliban, who had completely surrounded the platoon. Disregarding his own safety, he bravely stood upright in the LX in order to establish satellite communication, requested Close Air Support, returned fire on the enemy and directed the other members of his CAS team to work up targets and control the attack helicopters. His willingness to place himself in mortal danger to make that call, while heavy machine gun fire and RPGs flashed by his head was critically successful: his higher headquarters was now aware of the catastrophic turn of events and scrambled to get air support inbound. The enemy fire was coming from every direction; cover was scarce on the LZ, with mortar rounds landing all around them and tracer rounds splitting their formation. Technical Sergeant Delaney, made conspicuous by the radio-antenna bristling from his body, sprinted 50 meters across the LZ, determined the Afghan Army positions, then ran back across the LZ to talk the strike aircraft onto the enemy positions ringing their tiny LZ. The open position was a potential deathtrap for everyone, but the surrounding Taliban were deliberately hunting the man obviously exposed and raining bombs on them. While under fire, Technical Sergeant Delaney voluntarily risked his own life to identify the enemy positions and precisely direct CAS on them. After two hours of frantic survival fighting, his platoon fought its way north along a dirt trail in the narrow canyon, and took cover within two primitive mud huts and behind the short rock wall of a livestock pen. The fierce hailstorm of effective enemy fire continued, smashing into the walls, ground and rocks around Technical Sergeant Delaney's feet. Even though he was repeatedly encouraged to seek cover like the rest of the unit, Technical Sergeant Delaney willingly placed himself in mortal danger time and time again, understanding that in order to pinpoint the enemy positions that had the platoon pinned down and control bomb after bomb onto the enemy he had to remain in a position where he could see the enemy. To save his fellow soldiers, he repeatedly sprinted back and forth between the huts and the sheep pen positions for the next six hours, exposed to frighteningly effective enemy fire from every direction. At one point, he rushed through the oncoming fire to the defensive wall where the Afghan soldiers were huddled, stood one up, loaded the rocket-propelled grenade for the Afghan soldier, roared at him to engage the enemy, then reloaded him with another rocket, all while tracer rounds flashed past his head and kicked up dust and rock around him. As the blazing hot sun began to set that evening, and the overwhelming enemy force attacked down the steep slopes, in close proximity to him and his men, Technical Sergeant Delaney placed himself in grave danger again and again in order to drop bombs DANGER CLOSE to friendly positions. Twice he guided high explosives onto the attacking enemy, who were in close proximity to his men. The explosions showered them with rocks and dust but broke off the nearly overwhelming enemy attack, and prevented the U.S. Soldiers from being overrun. Technical Sergeant Delaney's gallant actions were distinctive and were so far beyond what could be expected of any man, voluntarily risking his own life over and over again for a period of more than eight hours in order to save his fellow brothers-in-arms. Technical Sergeant Delaney's heroic efforts against a well-prepared enemy force were the difference between life and death for 63 of his fellow soldiers. His gallantry in the face of enemy fire and his leadership and courage under intense enemy fire directly contributed to the survival of his fellow service members and defeat of the insurgent ambush. Technical Sergeant Delaney's gallantry in action is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, C Company, 1-133d Infantry Battalion, and the United States Army and United States Air Force.
Home Town: Copperopolis, California

DESLAURIERS, JOSEPH R.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Joseph R. Deslauriers, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a member of the 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on 23 September 2011. On that date, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, Sergeant Deslauriers and his 25-vehicle route clearance patrol element, in support of Operation DESERT TORTISE, conducted a deliberate mounted combat reconnaissance in the New Zad District. Sergeant Deslauriers' skills were instrumental to rendering safe one improvised explosive device and conducting three post blast analyses of subsequent detonations, all within a 4 hour timeframe. He repeatedly placed himself in harm's way with complete disregard for his safety by dismounting his mine resistant, ambush protected vehicle in a improvised explosive device infested area and cleared an extraction lane to a disabled armored vehicle in order to reach an injured United States Marine. Upon reaching the vehicle, Sergeant Deslauriers provided medical aid, used his hand held detector to clear a safe path to the medical evacuation helicopter landing zone, and assisted with carrying the injured Marine out of the danger area. Sergeant Deslauriers then ordered personnel to stay in the armored vehicles until he cleared a safe area for vehicle recovery personnel. While conducting the post blast analysis and a second sweep to clear the area, Sergeant Deslauriers stepped on a buried initiation system that activated a fifth improvised explosive device. Despite near mortal injuries and while his teammates rendered life saving aid, he continued to pass information concerning the device which was vital as his team continued the mission. His actions enabled the safe extractions of two injured Marines, two disabled vehicles and completion of the mission's objectives. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Deslauriers has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Bellingham, Massachusetts

FAIRCHILD, JAMES E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James E. Fairchild, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in military operations against an opposing armed force at Shahi Kot Valley, Afghanistan, on 4 March 2002. Flying as Twister 51, Lieutenant Colonel Fairchild contacted Slick 1, who reported they were taking fire from enemy troops 75 meters from their position. Slick 01 requested strafe passes only, due to danger-close friendly troops within minimum risk distances of injury and death from friendly weapons expenditures on enemy locations. Target recognition and accurate delivery were imperative. Twister 51, without regard for his own safety, made four strafe passes at 1,500 feet above ground level, well within the threat envelope of small-arms fire and surface-to-air missiles. Out of high-explosive incendiary ammunition, Twister 51 became the forward air controller-airborne, targeting Twister 52 on four more low-altitude strafe passes employing 20-millimeter ammunition. Twister 51, again acting as forward air controller-airborne, cleared Clash flight into the target area. Due to the expeditious target handoff, Clash 71 was able to make the first strafing pass five minutes after arriving in the target area. With Slick 01's concurrence, Twister flight attempted to walk each of their successive bombs closer to Taliban and al-Qaida forces without injuring United States forces 75 meters away. Twister 52 dropped 400 meters away from the friendly location, followed by Colonel Fairchild, who dropped a single laser-guided bomb 200 meters from the friendly location. By inflicting direct losses to al-Qaida and Taliban forces and subjecting himself to enemy fire to suppress the same and provide cover for downed friendly troops 75 meters from enemy forces, Fairchild's aviation prowess was responsible for the eventual rescue of 23 personnel and for advancing the goals of the United States' war on terrorism. Lieutenant Colonel Fairchild remained on-station for more than five hours, two hours past the scheduled coverage time, combining to make it a 12.3-hour combat sortie with three night and five day air-to-air re-fuelings per fighter.

FORESTER, MARK A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Senior Airman Mark A. Forester, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States in the Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan on 29 September 2010. On that day, while performing duty as a Combat Controller for Special Operations Task Force - South East, Fire Base Tinsley, Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, Airman Forester demonstrated extreme valor while engaged in combat with a well equipped and tenacious enemy. Airman Forester participated in a deliberate assault against an insurgent safe haven in Jangalak Village, supporting a team of four United States Army Special Forces Soldiers and eight Afghan National Army Soldiers on a patrol to secure possible enemy ambush positions to provide security for a mounted patrol. As the patrol moved into the village, it came under intense enemy machine gun and sniper fire. Airman Forester, without hesitation, exposed himself to enemy fire in order to identify enemy positions and coordinate close air support. As the enemy fire became more accurate, the patrol was forced to bound through an open field in order to secure a defensive position in a compound. As they approached the compound, one of the Afghan Soldiers suffered a fatal gunshot wound from an enemy sniper. Airman Forester was able to quickly maneuver a pair of AH-64s over the enemy positions which enabled the patrol to reach the safety of the compound. Once inside the compound, Airman Forester assisted in its clearing and moved into a position to flank the insurgents. As the team flanked the insurgent position, they again came under effective enemy machine gun and sniper fire. When a United States Army Soldier was fatally injured by the sniper, Airman Forester again exposed himself to the enemy and immediately killed the sniper. Airman Forester then organized a team to retrieve the injured Soldier. Airman Forester led the team back into the enemy's line of fire in a valiant effort to rescue a fallen comrade when he was fatally wounded by insurgent fire. Airman Forester's steadfast courage in the face the enemy led to the elimination of twelve insurgents and the capture of multiple weapons and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. By his gallantry and devotion to duty in the dedication of his service to his country, Airman Forester has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Haleyville, Alabama

GILBREATH, CECIL C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Cecil C. Gilbreath, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving as a Combat Controller, 21st Special Tactics Squadron, in action at Konduz Province, Afghanistan, from 30 October 2009 to 6 November 2009. During this period, Sergeant Gilbreath displayed extraordinary bravery during two significant battles. On 2 November 2009, his Special Forces team and their Afghanistan National Army partners were attacked by 30 enemy fighters in a well-coordinated L-shaped ambush. As a mortar round landed 20 feet from his location and two rocket propelled grenade rounds impacted within 15 feet spraying his vehicle and helmet with shrapnel, he exposed himself to direct enemy fire to visually identify the enemies' position. He coordinated three separate pinpoint bomb strikes that devastated the insurgents and halted the attack. On 5 November 2009, Sergeant Gilbreath's team participated in a clearing operation of a local village occupied by an estimated 120 Taliban and foreign fighters. As bullets and shrapnel impacted his vehicle from all directions and the enemy closed on his team's position, Sergeant Gilbreath directed two immediate danger close strafing runs against insurgent fighters just 30 feet from his position. These attacks suppressed the nearest threats, but did little to deter the enemy force. For the next hour, Sergeant Gilbreath maintained his partially exposed position in the gun-truck and, without regard for his own safety, methodically decimated the enemy with eight more airstrikes. His actions turned the tide of the battle and allowed his team to defeat the enemy assault with no friendly casualties. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Gilbreath has reflected great credit upon himself and the United Stated Air Force.

GOODMAN, GOODIE J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Senior Airman Goodie J. Goodman, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States while serving with the 21st Expeditionary Special Tactics Squadron in Helmand Province, Afghanistan from 27 to 29 September 2014. On these days, while attached to a U.S. Special Forces team, Airman Goodman displayed extraordinary bravery and complete disregard for his own life as he and his teammates assaulted an insurgent safe haven. Throughout the first day of the operation, coalition forces came under heavy fire from an overwhelming force in which he directly engaged the enemy while coordinating with other combat controllers for close air support from F-16s and AH-64s. While enemy machine gun fire impacted a wall within six inches of his head, he held his rooftop position in order to repel the overwhelming insurgent force. Airman Goodman and the team heroically repelled the assault after fierce fighting within 40 meters of his position, but soon after, a massive barrage of heavy machine gun, rocket propelled grenade, and sniper fire erupted from six enemy locations. With friendly forces taking fire from within 200 meters, he immediately directed AH-64 attack helicopters in multiple strikes on the closest threats while simultaneously coordinating and de-conflicting danger close mortar fire on another maneuvering enemy 300 meters away. He maintained a steady flow of fires through a choreographed alternation of aerial strikes and mortar fire, subduing the enemy attack for hours. At one point, Goodman drew the enemy out by instructing the loud, low-flying AC-130 to remain outside of audible range. When the enemy initiated a massive attack, Goodman controlled both aerial fires from the AC-130 and mortar fires from friendly ground forces until they retreated. After 48 hours of intense combat, Airman Goodman controlled 28 attack helicopters and 20 fixed wing assets for a total of 26 engagements; six at danger close range, 45 times with mortars, resulting in seven enemies killed. He also removed their ability to maneuver and fight by destroying five buildings, 14 vehicles, and nine fighting positions. Without a doubt, Airman Goodman's actions saved the lives of coalition soldiers on the ground by combining air and ground fires to repel multiple enemy attempts to overrun and capture friendly positions. By his heroic actions and unselfish dedication to duty, Airman Goodman has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Bronx, New York

GREEN, NATHAN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Nathan C. Green, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Kandahar Airport, Afghanistan, on 5 December 2001. On that date, as an AC-130H aircraft commander, 16th Special Operations Squadron, Captain Green's mission was to provide close-air support and armed reconnaissance to a combined team consisting of U.S. Special Forces and anti-Taliban forces. Surveying the area between the friendly position and the heavily defended airport, Green realized the required attack orbit would take them directly over the heavily defended airport, so he led the crew through a unique partial orbit attack. While destroying targets, the crew detected the launch of two infrared missiles coming from an area near the airport. Captain Green directed the aircraft and crew through defensive maneuvers and procedures to perfection, defeating the missiles. He displayed great leadership ability and bravery as he directed the crew of 13 officers and noncommissioned officers back into the extremely hostile environment. Captain Green repositioned the aircraft to precisely engage an enemy compound containing multiple targets that threatened air and ground forces. As the crew scored numerous direct hits, the enemy weapons ignited and engulfed the entire compound in flames. As the intense fire from this explosion illuminated the gunship, another infrared missile was launched at the aircraft from a much closer range than the previous missiles. He flawlessly handled this threat as he had the other two, defeating the missile. Intelligence credited the crew with destroying six SA-3 missiles, one truck, three towed artillery pieces and two towed rocket launchers. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Green has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Hamilton, Alabama

GREINER, MATTHEW J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Matthew J. Greiner, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States while serving with the 21st Expeditionary Special Tactics Squadron in Helmand Province, Afghanistan from 27 to 29 September 2014. On these days, while attached to a United States Special Forces team, Sergeant Greiner displayed extraordinary bravery and complete disregard for his own safety as he and his teammates assaulted an insurgent safe haven. Within minutes of landing on target, Sergeant Greiner used available aircraft sensors to locate groups of insurgents maneuvering through villages to engage A-10s and AH-64s and eliminate six advancing fighters before they could establish defensible positions. After destroying a massive weapons cache overnight, coalition forces came under heavy fire from an overwhelming force. With rocket-propelled grenades and machine gun fire erupting from all directions, Sergeant Greiner immediately began defensive strikes supporting the three embattled positions. He controlled multiple aircraft conducting simultaneous strikes on two radio networks, while braving heavy barrages of machine gun fire in order to maintain situational awareness of three friendly positions and over 20 enemy positions. With two observation posts in danger of being overrun by insurgents within 40 meters of their position, Sergeant Greiner focused all efforts on halting the enemy advance. He immediately destroyed two compounds housing an insurgent machine gun position and enemy strongpoints, one danger close to friendly positions, with four 500-pound bombs from a pair of F-16s. Insurgents continued to advance on friendly positions, again reaching within 40 meters. The enemy had coalition forces pinned down with machine gun fire while fighters crept through the adjacent corn fields. The enemy surged in a coordinated attack after intercepted communications stated, "Take the Americans alive." As the enemy neared grenade range, Sergeant Greiner confirmed all friendly locations and engaged at danger close distance with three Hellfires and multiple strafing runs from AH-64s. At one point, Sergeant Greiner identified six fighters with weapons approaching friendly forces on motorcycles, and he engaged with an AC-130 to decimate the enemy and stop the potential suicide attack. After 48 hours of intense fighting, 21 insurgents were eliminated, thanks to his employment of aerial assets in nine danger close engagements. Without Sergeant Greiner's expertise and skillful execution, there was no doubt in his teammates' minds that their positions would have been overrun by hostile forces on multiple occasions. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Greiner has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: North Hills, Pennsylvania

GROVES, JOHN MARSHALL.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John Marshall Groves, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States near Fallujah, Iraq, on 12 April 2004. On that date he was the aircraft commander of the second aircraft in a two-ship formation of MH-53M Pave Low helicopters conducting a special operations combat re-supply mission. Soon after accomplishing a formation go-around due to a saturated landing zone, Captain Groves' flight lead was ambushed and shot down by Iraqi insurgents. Moments later, Captain Groves' aircraft was accurately engaged by a rocket propelled grenade and small arms fire, some coming as close as 25 meters to his aircraft. He successfully accomplished evasive maneuvers, directed his crew to jettison flares, and steered his aircraft away from the threat area while flying as low as 80 feet above the ground to avoid further detection. In the course of the next five minutes, while attempting to return to the last known location of his flight lead, Captain Groves' aircraft was engaged by hostile enemy fire twice more. In both cases, his perfect defensive maneuvering, coupled with his crew coordination defeated the threat. On the third attempt, after 10 minutes of searching, Captain Groves' crew located the downed aircraft on the ground. He immediately conducted a flawless approach under zero illumination conditions, in an extremely high threat area, and placed his aircraft only 200 feet from the lead aircraft. On the ground, he directed his crew and three Special Forces passengers to locate and recover all personnel from the damaged helicopter. Once all survivors were on board, he readied his then overloaded aircraft for take off. As he gained flying speed on departure, they were again engaged by accurate enemy fire. For the fourth time, Captain Groves executed successful defensive maneuvering and defeated the enemy threat. At maximum speed, he flew his aircraft back to their forward staging base and provided much-needed medical care for the wounded. His exceptional bravery and tremendous pilot skills saved the lives of nine fellow service members. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Groves has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Lexington, Kentucky

HALLADA, JOSHUA M.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Joshua M. Hallada, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan on 23 April 2011. On that date as Flight Lead of Pedro 83, 83d Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, Captain Hallada led a two ship of HH-60G Pavehawk rescue helicopters to recover two United States Army pilots downed in the Allasay Valley, an enemy controlled area east of Bagram. After executing hoist insertions of Pararescue teams, Captain Hallada's wingman took effective enemy small arms fire, damaging the aircraft and seriously injuring his flight engineer. He directed his wingman to return to base, then selflessly flew multiple weapons passes, defending his teams on the ground and killing at least one insurgent. Realizing the mounting insurgent offensive, Captain Hallada used overhead AH-64D Attack Weapons Teams as cover to attempt rescue of his teams and distressed pilots. During the first approach, effective enemy fire disabled the hoist on his aircraft. Without a hoist, Captain Hallada executed a daring approach to a one wheel landing behind concealing terrain, recovering one of his two teams and one of the downed pilots. On takeoff his aircraft took heavy fire, causing more severe damage to his HH-60G. Despite multiple emergencies, Captain Hallada stayed on station providing cover for his two team members and the remaining pilot still at the crash site. With his wingman back on station, Captain Hallada expeditiously transferred his crew to a fresh aircraft, and without hesitation directed his formation back to the crash site. Captain Hallada led his formation five more times into enemy fire, ultimately recovering the remaining pilot and team, and rescuing a Soldier critically wounded in the effort. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Hallada has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Albuquerque, New Mexico

HARVELL, SEAN R.
Citation:

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Sean R. Harvell, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States near Garm Ab Village and Kajaki Sofia, Afghanistan, on 8 May 2007 and 30 May 2007. During this period, while performing duties as a Combat Controller, 22d Expeditionary Special Tactics Squadron, 1st Expeditionary Special Operations Group, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component, Special Operations Command Central in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Sergeant Harvell selflessly and conspicuously risked his life during two engagements while under heavy enemy fire to establish contact with fighter aircraft and direct the surgical employment of lethal air power against an overwhelming enemy. In the first engagement, Sergeant Harvell and his team risked destruction from a relentless enemy attack and subsequent ambush while on reconnaissance patrol. Sergeant Harvell, cognizant of his team's precarious situation and increasing casualties in the face of debilitating enemy attacks, deliberately exposed his position to orchestrate close air support, enable an HH-60 medical evacuation and cover the exfiltration of his nine-vehicle convoy and team over a ten-hour period. Completely enveloped by enemy fire and at great personal risk, he calmly directed air attacks, destroying multiple Taliban positions and saving the lives of his teammates. Later, in the middle of a devastating ambush, he again exposed himself to heavy enemy fire from as close as five meters and directed F-18 strafing runs within a mere 45 feet of his position to rout enemy insurgents. On 30 May 2007, while attempting the recovery of a downed CH-47 helicopter and United States Army aircrew, he was wounded and knocked unconscious by a rocket propelled grenade fired by Taliban militants in a daring daylight ambush. Regaining consciousness and bleeding from multiple wounds, Sergeant Harvell engaged Taliban fighters with his personal M-4 carbine, M-12 shotgun and then grenades while simultaneously directing deadly, danger-close air attacks on the insurgent force, effectively neutralizing all enemy threats to his team and allowing another special operations team to recover the remains of all service members and sensitive equipment from the crash site. During these two days of fierce fighting, his expertise in the employment of air power and selfless service resulted in the death of 212 enemy combatants and release of 18,000 pounds of aviation ordnance. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Harvell has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Long Beach, California

HEIDELBERG, CALEB D.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Senior Airman Caleb D. Heidelberg, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a Combat Control Journeyman, 22d Expeditionary Special Tactics Squadron, 1st Expeditionary Special Operations Group, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component, Special Operations Command Central, on 28 July 2008. On that date, in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM, Airman Heidelberg and his Army Special Forces and Afghanistan National Security Forces team conducted a mounted combat reconnaissance patrol. As members of the patrol dismounted to clear a vegetated area, they were ambushed within 10 meters by enemy insurgent forces employing heavy and effective small-arms and mortar fire, injuring all of the dismounted team. Cognizant of the grave danger faced by his reconnaissance teammates, Airman Heidelberg exposed himself to extensive enemy fire while repositioning his vehicle to provide cover for his wounded comrades. With continued disregard for his own safety, he then stationed himself forward of the vehicle and suppressed the enemy with his squad automatic weapon, thereby allowing his vehicle's gunner to climb to the mounted turret, clear the jammed automatic grenade launcher and put fire on the enemy. Realizing wounded members of his patrol were still exposed and in mortal danger, Airman Heidelberg willfully and unhesitatingly moved from the cover and protective fire of his position and ran toward them. Exposing himself again to heavy enemy fire, Airman Heidelberg carried a seriously wounded Afghan soldier back to the protection of the vehicle. As the fight continued, he brilliantly directed a complex air-ground battle to destroy the enemy with AH-64 strafing attacks and bombs dropped from B-1 and F-15 aircraft. Additionally, he simultaneously directed four helicopter sorties to both evacuate the wounded and replenish a critically low supply of ammunition. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Heidelberg has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

HUTCHINS, BENJAMIN D.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Airman First Class Benjamin D. Hutchins, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a Combat Controller with the 14th Air Support Operations Squadron, near Bala Murghab, Afghanistan from 4 November 2009 to 6 November 2009. During this period, Airman Hutchins moved to secure multiple bundles from a missed aerial delivery that resulted in one bundle landing in the Bala Murghab River. Two Soldiers, while attempting to recover the bundle, were swept away by the current. In spite of imminent danger from hostile forces in the immediate area, Airman Hutchins dropped his personal protective equipment and dove into the frigid waters in an attempt to rescue the drowning Soldiers. Enemy forces moved into the area and began firing directly at Airman Hutchins from the east bank of the river. Airman Hutchins, despite the onslaught of enemy fire, refused to leave the two Soldiers and persisted in his recovery attempt until American forces arrived to repel the enemy and assist with the recovery. Throughout the night, additional forces continued to arrive to secure the east bank of the river at which time Airman Hutchins joined a patrol that subsequently came under intense enemy fire. Airman Hutchins, with complete disregard for his personal safety, volunteered with three other individuals to leave cover and concealment and engage the enemy in order to neutralize the hostile fire. Airman Hutchins moved under heavy and accurate rocket propelled grenade, machine gun and sniper fire across an open field with little to no cover or concealment. While continuing to move forward, he managed to direct the sensors of overhead close air support while simultaneously providing accurate supporting fire with his M-4 rifle. He killed one enemy armed with a rocket propelled grenade launcher, at close range, before the enemy could fire and wounded an additional enemy fighter all while providing targeting and controlling information to an overhead unmanned aerial vehicle that destroyed a second enemy fighting position with a Hellfire missile. Airman Hutchins' quick, decisive actions, tactical presence and calm demeanor enabled friendly forced to eventually overwhelm the enemy stronghold. His actions forced the enemy fighters to break contact and relinquish critical ground to friendly forces which enabled the safety of the recovery efforts for the two missing Soldiers. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Hutchins has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Indian Lake, New York

INNIS, SCOTT A.
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The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Scott A. Innis, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a Combat Control Journeyman, 22d Expeditionary Special Tactics Squadron, 16th Expeditionary Special Operations Group, Combined Joint Special Operations Command Central, Afghanistan, on 28 March 2006. In support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, Sergeant Innis and the other members of his elite Army Special Forces Detachment, located at a firebase in a heavily contested region of Afghanistan, were suddenly engulfed in a hailstorm of rocket propelled grenade, mortar, heavy machine gun, and small arms fire from three sides. Fully exposed to enemy fire and with total disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Innis scaled a ladder to an observation platform stationed at the center of the small firebase. The field- expedient plywood observation tower was the only structure visible outside the perimeter and a magnet for the bulk of the enemy fire. Despite dwindling cover, he remained perched above the battle guiding a devastating aerial counterattack. A marked man, the enemy quickly zeroes in on his position and was committed to killing him. Yet, with enemy rockets and small arms fire passing within mere inches of his exposed head and body, he continued to perform his duty, successfully utilizing his vast airmanship skills to neutralize the enemy. During the 24-hour pitched battle, Sergeant Innis defeated the enemy through the decisive use of airpower that resulted in the death or injury to over 100 insurgents. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Innis has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

JONES, EVAN P.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Senior Airman Evan P. Jones, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as Combat Controller, 22d Expeditionary Special Tactics Squadron, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component, Special Operations Command Central, on 2 September 2008. On that date, while on vehicular combat patrol in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, Airman Jones and his Coalition Special Forces Team were attacked by anti-Afghanistan forces using accurate mortars, small-arms, heavy weapons and rocket-propelled grenades. Despite suffering immediate wounds to his shoulder and hand, Airman Jones returned fire while simultaneously orchestrating close-air support to deter the enemy's aggressive advance and eliminate hostile fire directed at his teammates. With close-air support overhead, Airman Jones repeatedly exposed himself to accurate enemy fire as he maneuvered from vehicle to vehicle to coordinate the destruction of insurgent fighting positions. When a rocket-propelled grenade exploded danger-close projecting shrapnel into his legs, Airman Jones ignored his wounds and continued to direct air support for the next hour, enabling his team to fight through a gauntlet of 20 enemy fighting positions. After the team returned to their remote fire base, Airman Jones refused medical treatment in order to coordinate an urgent medical evacuation of a wounded soldier and continued to engage a regrouping enemy surging towards the base. With incredible battle space awareness and utmost determination, he exploited airborne assets to identify another insurgent ambush against another friendly patrol, and then directed an airstrike against the enemy forces preparing to ambush the six-man squad. Throughout the battle, Airman Jones' remarkable professional skill and heroic actions saved the lives of 60 of his comrades. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Jones has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Colorado Springs, Colorado

KEEHAN, MICHAEL L., III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael L. Keehan, III, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States in the Republic of Iraq from 20 March 2003 to 5 April 2003. During this period, as the Battalion Air Liaison Officer, 15th Expeditionary Air Support Operations Squadron, Support 3d Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division Mechanized of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, Sergeant Keehan's unit was met with fierce enemy resistance in the heavily defended city of As Samawah. While the rest of his unit was protected by armored vehicles, he repeatedly braved heavy fire from outside his soft- skinned vehicle, quickly calling for close air support as artillery began impacting 200 meters all around his position. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Keehan continued to undauntedly brave incoming artillery and small arms fire to identify enemy positions along the riverbanks and roads, destroying them with devastating bomb and strafing runs, often within 600 meters of friendly positions. Mere days following his first major combat operations, his unit was once again thrust into the jaws of an awaiting enemy. After seizing the bridge at Abu Sakhayr, he drove through a gauntlet of heavy small arms fire in the city, returning automatic fire from his door. Despite enemy fire ripping through his vehicle, his calm demeanor lent valor in the face of imminent peril. In what was to be the decisive battle of the war, enemy armored and paramilitary forces surrounded his unit during the largest sandstorm of the century. As the only available fire support and communications link for his unit and surrounded at night and blinded by sand and raining mud, he orchestrated an almost impossible close air support mission on approaching enemy armor formations, delivering a devastating and paralyzing blow to the numerically superior force. Finally, advancing on the main axis to Baghdad, they were attacked by suicide busses, mortars and the enemy's main tank force. Under intense direct and indirect fire from T-72 tanks, artillery and small arms, he continued to move forward defiantly positioning himself in the face of enemy fire to destroy the enemy force with close air support. Sergeant Keehan repeatedly risked his life for his unit. His courageous acts and selfless devotion to his unit against an armed enemy vowing to fight to the death were directly responsible for total victory and prevented the loss of not a single American life. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Keehan has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Denmark, Wisconsin

KLINE, ZACHARY A.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Zachary A. Kline, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, on 23 April 2011. On that date, Sergeant Kline was part of a rescue team tasked to recover two United States Army pilots downed in the Allasay Valley, an insurgent controlled area east of Bagram. While descending on the rescue hoist, Sergeant Kline's team took effective fire that damaged the aircraft and seriously injured one crewmember. The aircraft was forced to depart leaving Sergeant Kline and his team on the ground. At the wreckage, Sergeant Kline directed his teammate to assess the patient and conducted a search to recover sensitive items. Soon after, Sergeant Kline began taking effective fire at his position next to the aircraft. With Pedro no longer overhead, the insurgents voiced their desire to move to the crash site and take coalition forces hostage. Sergeant Kline coordinated by radio with aircraft to engage enemy troops. He coordinated AH-64s on to targets in the high ground and calculated reverse azimuths to identify threats located on low ground behind his position. One incoming round ignited fuel within the wreckage and the crash site erupted in flames. Sergeant Kline pushed through enemy fire to an alternate hide site and continued to guide overhead weaponry onto fighting positions. Sergeant Kline showed great heroism over the six hour rescue mission and risked his life during an overwhelming volume of enemy fire and enabled the recovery of one United States Army Soldier from enemy territory. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Kline has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Albuquerque, New Mexico

KRUEGER, ADAM C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Senior Airman Adam C. Krueger, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States on 25 May 2010. On that date, Airman Krueger bravely risked his life with complete disregard for personal safety while conducting combat operations with a United States Army Special Forces Team in Afghanistan. As the team patrolled by foot through the village of Mullah Wazir, an entrenched enemy lay waiting a mere ten meters away to deliver a coordinated lethal ambush on his team. Pinned down, Airman Krueger immediately took decisive action and called in an F-15 strafing run on the enemy within meters of his position. Using the cover fire, his team fought their way through a steady stream of small arms and PKM fire to a compound to establish a strongpoint. As the team reconsolidated, Airman Krueger coordinated a second attack with a Hellfire missile, impacting danger close, allowing a separate pinned down friendly element the opportunity to seek cover. However, as the team moved across open terrain enemy rounds hit two Soldiers. Recognizing the dire situation, Airman Krueger simultaneously exposed himself to enemy fire and coordinated another air attack while other members of the team moved the wounded to cover. As the medical evacuation helicopter approached, Airman Krueger exposed himself to mark the landing zone and de-conflict airstrikes providing cover fire, enabling the life saving patient evacuation. During the twelve hour firefight, Airman Krueger annihilated the enemy through judicious employment of deadly airpower, directing nine danger-close air strikes with multiple five hundred and two thousand pound bombs, gun runs, rockets and missiles. His audacity and tactical prowess were essential in the defeat of the enemy and the survival of his team and other friendly forces that day. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Krueger has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

KUBIK, ANDREW D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Andrew D. Kubik, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron near Tactaplo, Afghanistan, on 23 November 2001. Staff Sergeant Kubik was attached to Operational Detachment Alpha, which was attacking north through a valley toward Kandahar, Afghanistan, with a 500-man anti-Taliban force when they became decisively engaged by a well-planned and executed three-way ambush. A withering barrage of anti-aircraft gunfire as well as rocket- propelled grenades and small arms fire pinned down the entire team. As a massive volume of fire rained down on them, stunning the coalition force, Staff Sergeant Kubik stayed in an exposed position and calmly coordinated emergency close-air support. With devastating effectiveness, Staff Sergeant Kubik controlled numerous bombing runs that set the conditions for a counterattack by the Special Forces team and anti-Taliban force, which led to the battlefield being swept of enemy forces. Staff Sergeant Kubik's decisive actions were overwhelmingly responsible for breaking the back of Taliban resistance and cleared the way for the final offensive on Kandahar and subsequent victory in southern Afghanistan. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Kubik has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

LENGEL, EDWARD J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward J. Lengel, Captain, U.S. Air Force, conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 66th Rescue Squadron, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 3 March 2002 in Afghanistan. Shortly after dark on that date, Captain Lengel took off in his rescue helicopter to support Special Operations in the mountains of eastern Afghanistan. With one helicopter following his lead, Captain Lengel attempted to rescue American soldiers who were seriously wounded following heavy contact with al Qaida fighters hiding in a cave complex. With his helicopter weighted down with weapons, fuel and soldiers in parachutes, a landing seemed hopeless. Captain Lengel made the decision to dump 1,000 pounds of fuel to lighten the load. After landing, the mission remained dangerous amid constant machine gun and mortar fire. Captain Lengel remained on the ground under fire while rescuers ran 50 feet to recover and load four wounded soldiers. After lifting off, Captain Lengel provided cover fire for the second helicopter to recover additional wounded, and then followed a dry stream bed until he could gain enough speed to lift away from the rocks. Without his impeccable judgment, cool demeanor, and unmatched flying skills, this mission would certainly have ended in disaster.
Special Order No. 0063
Home Town: Nicholson, Pennsylvania

LEWIS, CHRISTOPHER F
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Christopher F. Lewis, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller of the 23d Special Tactics Squadron, attached to a Navy Special Warfare Platoon near Mosul, Iraq, in support of Operation INHERENT RESOLVE on 20 October 2016. On that date, Sergeant Lewis' team escorted Kurdish Peshmerga Forces beyond the forward line of troops in an effort to clear two villages held by an unknown number of Da'esh fighters. Shortly after entering enemy-held territory, his element began receiving a high volume of effective fire, prompting Sergeant Lewis to call for immediate close air support in what would become a violent ten hour firefight. Attempting to break contact, his team took intense fire from enemy positions at which time the automated .50 Caliber turret system in Sergeant Lewis' vehicle became inoperable. While receiving a heavy volume of accurate rocket propelled grenade, 81-millimeter mortar, and small arms fire, Sergeant Lewis selflessly exposed himself to grave danger in order to control airstrikes within 400 meters of his team's position destroying two enemy fighting positions and an unknown number of enemy fighters maneuvering. Then, while manning a .50 Caliber machine gun in an open turret, Sergeant Lewis again selflessly exposed himself to enemy fire to engage and destroy an onrushing vehicle-borne improvised explosive device within 150 meters of his position driving at high speed directly towards his team and Peshmerga Forces. Shortly thereafter, the enemy attempted to open another avenue of attack from a concealed tunnel at close range to Sergeant Lewis' team. Maneuvering from enemy fire, his team was halted after identifying multiple pressure-late improvised explosive devices on their withdrawal route. Then a series of improvised explosive devices detonated, destroying one vehicle and mortally wounding a United States service member. While still under fire, Sergeant Lewis dismounted his vehicle and risked his life to provide life-sustaining medical care to his injured teammate who lay within five meters of an unexploded improvised explosive device. He then pulled two remaining teammates from the damaged vehicle who were confused from the blast. Controlled a hasty medical evacuation, and facilitated air strikes resulting in 20 enemies killed in action. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Lewis has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Fort Meyers, Florida

LIENHARD, JOSEPH M.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Joseph M. Lienhard, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 24th Special Tactics Squadron near the Balkh Valley, Afghanistan, on 5 November 2001. On that date, Sergeant Lienhard targeted and destroyed an enemy bunker complex on 5 November 2001. His team was decisively engaged by a well-planned and executed counterattack by Taliban forces. With complete disregard for his own personal safety and despite heavy incoming small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades impacting all around his position, Sergeant Lienhard calmly remained exposed to coordinate emergency close air support. With nearly all of his host nation forces fleeing in panic and Taliban forces closing in on his position, Sergeant Lienhard instinctively and successfully directed numerous dangerous close air strikes to thwart the enemy's advance. Facing overwhelming odds, Sergeant Lienhard mounted his horse and lethally engaged the enemy with his M-4 rifle and M-203 grenade launcher providing covering fire while he repositioned another observation point. Withdrawing by fire, literally within feet of potential fatal gunfire, Sergeant Lienhard contacted a B-52 aircraft and with pinpoint accuracy targeted his previously occupied location. With devastating effectiveness, he controlled numerous bombing runs to recapture the strategically important ridgeline effectively breaking the Taliban's advance turning defeat into victory. Sergeant Lienhard's valor and calm demeanor under intense enemy fire exemplify the highest standards of bravery in the face of the enemy. His personal actions on the battlefield were decisive and instrumental in the liberation of six northern Afghan provinces and prevented a major defeat of General Dostam's Northern Alliance forces during their campaign to capture Mazer-e-Sharif. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Lienhard has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

LLOYD, SEAN W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Sean W. Lloyd, Senior Airman, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 20th Air Support Operations Squadron in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan during February and March 2002.

LUTTELL, BLAKE O.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Captain Blake O. Luttrell, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action. Captain Luttrell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct in the face of the enemy of the United States as Joint Terminal Attack Controller, Task Force ONE PANTHER, Mazar E Sharif, Afghanistan, The Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. During a clearing operation on 9 January 2012, Captain Luttrell's partnered element of Afghan Commandos became overwhelmed by intense small arms fire from hardened insurgents fighting from fortified positions within caves. The initial engagement resulted in two Commando casualties, including one who died immediately from his wounds. Captain Luttrell maneuvered with his element through heavy enemy fire to recover the casualties. Captain Luttrell calmly identified enemy positions and provided precise terminal guidance to supporting air weapons teams to neutralize the enemy fortifications by multiple air-to-ground engagements as the assault force continued to advance. The element recovered the wounded commandos as enemy fire focused on the maneuvering assault force. Captain Luttrell continued to control air weapons team fires to neutralize enemy positions within the cave complex to cover the element. The devastating effect of the precision fires on the enemy created a momentary lull and enabled the assault force to move the casualties to a safe location for extraction. Captain Luttrell subsequently directed an inbound medical evacuation helicopter through arduous terrain to make a safe landing to evacuate the friendly casualties, and then returned to continue the assault. The assault force continued maneuvering on the enemy fortifications, and cleared a compound to take cover from intensifying enemy small arms fire to prepare for a final assault. When the Medic within his element became critically wounded while protecting the assault force and women and children found near the enemy position, Captain Luttrell deployed a smoke grenade into the main cave fortifications, returned fire, and courageously moved through continued incoming fire to assist his comrade. Captain Luttrell continued to engage the enemy from extremely close range as he assisted with moving his critically wounded teammate behind a covered position to begin medically treating him. Captain Luttrell again directed the medical evacuation helicopter to extract the critically wounded Medic, and immediately returned to continue the assault. Captain Luttrell quickly ensured all members of the assault force remained in covered positions and immediately provided terminal guidance for a decisive, precision strike by supporting close air support platforms to neutralize the fortified enemy. The assault force subsequently repositioned reinforcement to assist with the assault to destroy the remaining enemy within the cave complex. Captain Luttrell courageously took the fight to the enemy in the face of extreme danger. Captain Luttrell's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, the Combined Forces Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Nashville, Tennessee

MAITRE, BENJAMIN R.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Benjamin R. Maitre, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States near Kandahar, Afghanistan, on 21 February 2002. On that date, as an MC-130H Aircraft Commander, Captain Maitre commanded a Combat Talon II on a high-risk airdrop mission supporting Operations ENDURING FREEDOM, the American-led endeavor to end global terrorism. He directed all facets of the mission, including planning, preflight, and ground operations, before departing from a classified location headed for the threat-laden skies over Afghanistan. Captain Maitre's objective was to airdrop nine re-supply bundles, packed with ammunition and rations to Special Forces troops engaged in Operation ANACONDA, the effort to round Taliban and Al Qaeda forces from the rugged Tora Bora mountains. Beginning ten minutes prior to his time-over-target, Captain Maitre came under intense fire from numerous enemy anti-aircraft artillery sites. Despite the pitch-black night, he skillfully outmaneuvered each threat, keeping the aircraft clear of the terrain and barrage of enemy bullets. Captain Maitre then executed a perfect airdrop, allowing the supported commandos to flush the terrorists from their hideouts. After the drop, his aircraft was again fired upon and he deftly weaved through jagged mountains to evade the enemy fire. When two sites zeroes in on him at the same time, Captain Maitre executed aggressive maneuvers to defeat both threats, saving a 115 million-dollar aircraft and seven lives. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Maitre has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

MARKHAM, WILLIAM "CALVIN"
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William "Calvin" Markham, Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, near Kabul, Afghanistan, from 14 October to 30 November 2001. On 21 October 2001, within forty-eight hours of the detachment's arrival in Afghanistan, Sergeant Markham planned, organized, and led a close air support reconnaissance mission to within two kilometers of the Taliban front line in order to identify potential observation posts from which his team could execute missions. Almost immediately upon arrival, Sergeant Markham's team came under direct enemy fire from tanks, mortars and artillery. Despite heavy incoming fire, in which numerous rounds impacted within fifty to seventy-five meters of his position, Sergeant Markham instinctively and successfully directed multiple close air support sorties against key Taliban leadership positions, command and control elements, fortified positions, and numerous anti-aircraft artillery sites. Throughout this highly successful mission, Sergeant Markham skillfully directed multiple air strikes involving over one hundred seventy-five sorties of both strategic and attack aircraft resulting in the elimination of approximately four hundred and fifty enemy vehicles and over three thousand five hundred enemy troops. The resulting close air support operations were decisive in supporting the Northern Alliance ground offensive, which resulted in the successful liberation of the capital city of Kabul and led to the eventual surrender of hundreds of al Qaeda and Taliban ground forces. Master Sergeant Markham's valor and calmness under enemy fire were a constant source of inspiration to his detachment and General Fahim Khan's Northern Alliance forces. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Markham has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Waukeska, Wisconsin

MARTIN, ANDREW I.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Andrew I. Martin, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron near Shahi Kot, Eastern Afghanistan, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, from 27 February 2002 to 4 March 2002. During this period, while attached to an elite Navy Sea, Air, and Land (SEAL) Team as the sole Special Tactics Combat Control Operator, he performed all radio communications, tactical reconnaissance, and close air support responsibilities during Operation ANACONDA against Al Qaeda forces in the rugged mountains of Eastern Afghanistan. Sergeant Martin was a key member of a five-man sniper team during this sustained special operation that located and identified countless and previously unseen enemy fortifications, ground patrols, and fighting positions throughout the Shahi Kot Valley region of Afghanistan. His elite team achieved overwhelming operational effects on the battlefield completely out of proportion to its small size. He scaled an eleven thousand foot peak carrying over one hundred pounds of equipment, traversing over nineteen kilometers of the most precipitous landscape the continent has to offer. Approaching the target area he spotted a large-caliber automatic weapons position manned by four enemy personnel. Under an incoming hail of enemy fire, his team assaulted the fortified position eliminating two enemy fighters with surgical rifle fire. Anticipating enemy contact, Sergeant Martin pre-briefed the AC-130 gunship with a fire mission and within seconds had eliminated the remaining enemy force. From his newly conquered dominating land feature, Sergeant Martin called in a storm of close air support fire on a multitude of targets staged in offensive positions overlooking the alley below. In a second enemy fire fight engagement Sergeant Martin was credited with five confirmed kills during an hour-long battle supporting a friendly force under attack. Sergeant Martin faced death from torturous terrain, the debilitating effects of high altitude exposure and extreme cold weather, he survived two direct mortar attacks, and successfully executed two armed assaults of Al Qaeda positions, killing the enemy at close range. The strategic significance of the devastation Sergeant Martin delivered upon the enemy is beyond assessment. By conservative estimates his team killed between thirty to fifty enemy fighters. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Martin has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

MATTHEWS, DOUGLAS J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Douglas J. Matthews, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States near Jalrez, Wardak Province, Afghanistan on 27 November 2012. On that date, Sergeant Matthews displayed extraordinary bravery, technical skill, and a complete disregard for his own safety when his vehicle struck a command detonated improvised explosive device, immediately ejecting him from the 15 ton vehicle, and triggering a complex ambush. Sustaining head injuries and multiple lacerations from the blast, Sergeant Matthews immediately came to his feet and faced torrents of fire from 12 different enemy fighting positions, some as close as 30 meters to the beleaguered convoy. Though seriously wounded, Sergeant Matthews returned fire and immediately maneuvered back to his overturned vehicle to aid his wounded teammates. While under direct and accurate enemy fire, Sergeant Matthews discovered his team leader ejected from the vehicle and incapacitated from a traumatically amputated lower extremity. Sergeant Matthews moved the wounded Soldier to safety along an embankment while still exchanging fire with enemy forces, as secondary explosions from ammunition in the burning vehicle added to the chaotic scene on the narrow road. As his Special Forces Team regrouped, Sergeant Matthews furiously coordinated close air support and a medical evacuation for his grievously injured teammates. Sergeant Matthews remained in exposed positions, despite increasing volumes of enemy fire striking all around his position, and accurately directed strafing runs to hold the attacking insurgent forces at bay. As medical evacuation helicopters arrived, Sergeant Matthews refused to be evacuated with the other occupants of the now burning vehicle, and remained on scene to direct a withering barrage of close air support that eventually broke the back of the enemy attack. Sergeant Matthews continued to engage with multiple air platforms until a quick reaction force arrived, allowing his team to break contact and return to their base. His heroism under fire while directing close air support allowed friendly forces to recover all personnel with no loss of life and maneuver out of the ambush's kill zone. Sergeant Matthews actions undoubtedly saved the lives of his wounded teammates and an Afghan interpreter. By his gallantry and devotion to duty Sergeant Matthews has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Boulder, Colorado

MCKENNA, MATTHEW P.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Matthew P. McKenna, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 22d Special Tactics Squadron in the Murza Kalay Village, Afghanistan, on 21 September 2013. On that date, Technical Sergeant McKenna excelled as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller on a combined team of Army Special Operations Forces and Afghan 3d Special Operations Kandak conducting a raid in denied terrain. Shortly after infiltration, Sergeant McKenna controlled air and ground sensors to execute air strikes on 10 insurgents in fighting positions preventing a catastrophic ambush. The patient enemy waited for reinforcements, maneuvered, and initiated a ferocious ambush from dominant fighting positions, pinning down friendly elements. On several occasions, with no regard for his personal safety, Sergeant McKenna moved from cover, exposing himself to withering machine gun and rocket propelled grenade fire to locate friendly elements trapped by enemy fire. He then executed control of danger close precision strikes from airborne assets. The battle raged for several hours and friendly forces were burning through their supply of ammunition at a breakneck pace and were in grave danger of running out completely. Sergeant McKenna orchestrated an aerial re-supply at two locations, placing ammunition within 50 feet of distressed forces preventing what was sure to be significant casualties. While friendly forces fought for their lives on the valley floor, insurgents from the surrounding areas responded with 65 reinforcements that maneuvered towards friendly locations. Enemy forces from the high ground began closing in on Sergeant McKenna's vulnerable position nearly enveloping it and threatening to overrun them. With complete disregard for his personal safety, and ignoring his teammates' urging to find cover, Sergeant McKenna bounded away from cover further into the kill zone exposing himself to heavy fire from an advancing enemy in order to control danger close air strikes. The perfectly placed strikes provided time and space for friendly forces running low on ammunition to maneuver, ascend the mountain, and bound to the emergency exfiltration point. Sergeant McKenna's actions throughout the 13-hour battle ensured survivability of friendly forces against a formidable enemy, enabled his team to clear two kilometers of terrain, beat back three enemy counter attacks, and contributed substantially to an incredible 103 enemy killed in action. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant McKenna has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Hudson, Massachusetts

MCMULLEN, CHARLES L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Charles L. McMullen, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 41st Rescue Squadron near Nad E Ali, Afghanistan, on 28 December 2009. On that date, Captain McMullen, as rescue mission commander, led a four ship task force sent at night to rescue one urgent casualty whose injury put the lives of 160 British soldiers in jeopardy. Captain McMullen directed his wingman to recover the injured soldier while he provided protection. On short final, insurgents ambushed his wingman with small arms, heavy machine gun and anti-aircraft artillery fire from 200 meters. Captain McMullen immediately cleared his aerial gunner to engage while ordering his wingman to withdraw. As enemy fire shifted to his aircraft, Captain McMullen flew numerous countermeasure procedures flawlessly to avoid all incoming rounds. When attack assets called the threat neutralized, Captain McMullen led his formation for a second attempt. On short final, his wingman was on the verge of rescuing the soldier, when the enemy engaged them once more; this time, rounds missed their aircraft within 15 feet. Captain McMullen, showing immense fortitude, accelerated and placed his helicopter in the line of fire between his wingman and the incoming rounds, providing them a means to escape. When the enemy fire shifted to his aircraft, he masterfully maneuvered through a steady stream of incoming rounds and denied the enemy a firing solution for two rocket propelled grenades. Knowing the severity of the situation, Captain McMullen decided to make a third attempt, which culminated in the rescue of the casualty and one additional injured soldier. His actions truly demonstrate bravery under fire. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain McMullen has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

*NYLANDER, NATHAN J. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) (Posthumously) to Captain Nathan J. Nylander, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with ground combat operations as an Advisor, NATO Air Training Command-Afghanistan/438th Air Expeditionary Wing, NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan and Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 27 April 2011. On the morning of 27 April, an assailant opened fire upon United States personnel shooting seven U.S. Air Force Airmen and one American civilian contractor. Despite an extremely uncertain tactical situation, and with disregard for his own safety, Captain Nylander went to the Air Command and Control Center (ACCC), Afghan Air Force (AAF) Headquarters in response to the shooting. He responded when the gunman began shooting as he was with four other Airmen and eight Afghan personnel in a conference room adjoining the ACCC. Captain Nylander could have exited the building to safety, but chose instead to return and assist his fellow Airmen. Captain Nylander then engaged the gunman, wounding the assailant and when he remained on the floor motionless, Captain Nylander approached the other rooms. The gunman arose and went into a room across the hall from the conference room. When the gunman re-emerged into the hallway, Captain Nylander engaged the assailant again and during this exchange of gunfire, Captain Nylander sustained wounds to his left and right thighs. Although seriously wounded and bleeding heavily, he continued to engage the gunman until his weapon jammed. When he attempted to exit the rear entrance of the AAF Headquarters, he was killed by the gunman. Captain Nylander's brave actions degraded the gunman's capability and likely prevented further loss of life, including that of other U.S. personnel who remained in the AAF Headquarters. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Captain Nylander gallantly gave his life for his country and reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan and Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, and the United States Air Force. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Captain Nathan J. Nylander, United States Air Force, distinguished himself by gallantry performed with marked distinction as an Advisor and member of the NATO Air Training Command-Afghanistan/438th Air Expeditionary Wing, NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan and Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan during OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM. On the morning of 27 April 2011, a renegade Afghan Air Force officer entered the Air Command and Control Center (ACCC), Afghan Air Force (AAF) Headquarters and opened fire with a 9-mm. pistol, shooting seven U.S. Air Force Airmen and one American civilian contractor. When the gunman began shooting, Captain Nylander was with four other Airmen and eight Afghan personnel in a conference room adjoining the ACCC. At the sound of the gunshots, he moved toward the door between the AAAC and the conference room. With Captain Bradley and Captain Cheslak providing cover, Captain Nylander evacuated the conference room. After exiting the conference room, he could have continued to safety, but chose instead to return and assist his fellow Airmen. He took up a firing position next to Captain Bradley in the hallway when the gunman emerged from the ACCC. Captain Bradley and Captain Nylander engaged the gunman with their 9-mm. pistols, wounding him at least once and possibly twice. When the gunman remained on the floor and did not move, Captain Bradley made eye contact with Captain Nylander, gave him a signal to withdraw, and then exited the building. Although the tactical situation was extremely uncertain, Captain Nylander chose to remain in the building and did not withdraw. While Captain Nylander was likely in the conference room or ACCC, the gunman got up and went into a room across the hall from the conference room. When the gunman re-emerged into the hallway, Captain Nylander engaged the gunman again with his 9-mm.. During this exchange, Captain Nylander was shot in the left thigh and sustained a grazing wound to his right thigh. Bleeding from his wounds, Captain Nylander began to move toward the rear entrance of the AAF Headquarters. Although seriously wounded and bleeding heavily, Captain Nylander continued to engage the gunman until his 9-mm. jammed. He cleared two rounds from his weapon and the final round was found jammed in the chamber. When Captain Nylander attempted to exit the rear entrance of the AAF Headquarters, he was killed by the gunman. Of his own volition, Captain Nylander chose to return to an extremely dangerous and unknown tactical situation and engage an attacker who had taken the lives of eight fellow Americans. After an initial exchange of gunfire, Captain Nylander again chose to stay, with the likely intent of aiding the fallen. Captain Nylander's brave actions degraded the gunman's capability and likely prevented further loss of life, including that of other U.S. personnel who remained in the AAF Headquarters. His distinct gallantry while engaged with a hostile attacker, exemplifies loyalty, selfless service, and personal courage. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Captain Nylander gallantly gave his life for his country and reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the NATO Training Mission–Afghanistan and Combined Security Transition Command–Afghanistan, and the United States Air Force.

PARKER, KRISTOPHER K.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Kristopher Parker, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan. Technical Sergeant Parker and his explosive ordnance disposal team were tasked with clearing caves thought to house ammunition caches for insurgent forces in Kandahar Province on 21 May 2014. Technical Sergeant Parker was assigned to the 466th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight and was supporting the Army's 82nd Airborne Division and Afghan Border Police during the mission. Upon initial descent, within 100 meters of the cave opening, the teams immediately saw gunfire. Repeated airstrikes were called in to destroy a handful of IED caches. But before the team could make more progress, rocket-propelled grenades and a 20-pound IED were thrown at Technical Sergeant Parker and the other technicians, knocking him and some of his teammates back and resulting in concussions. Technical Sergeant Parker, in and out of consciousness, facilitated medical evacuation for their platoon leader, who sustained wounds during the 12-plus-hour battle that stemmed from the explosive mission. Due largely in part to Technical Sergeant Parker's leadership and expertise, no American lives were lost that day.

QUESENBERRY, JASON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jason Quesenberry, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 17th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, in support of elements of the U.S. Army's 75th Ranger Regiment, during the opening stages of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in late March and early April 2003. Technical Sergeant Quesenberry distinguished himself during an attack that killed a combat controller and wounded three Army Rangers while assigned to a Ranger team near western Iraq. During the attack, he risked exposure to rocket and small arms fire in order to direct close-air support aircraft and cover his teammates. After being wounded by a rocket he disregarded his injuries and saved his team's only communications link, his radio and Global Positioning System from a burning vehicle. Despite heavy bleeding, Technical Sergeant Quesenberry refused medical treatment so he could continue coordinating air cover as the team moved to a safer position. He then treated the wounded, established a hasty defense and controlled air cover while coordinating their evacuation.

RAY, KENNETH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Kenneth Ray, Colonel, U.S. Air Force (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 711th Special Operations Squadron, 919th Operations Group, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM during an air mission over the Sar Sar Palace, Iraq, on 3 April 2003.
Born: at Oxnard, California
Home Town: Boulder, Colorado

REILLY, BRADLEY T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Bradley T. Reilly, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action. Technical Sergeant Reilly distinguished himself by his exceptionally valorous actions as the Combat Controller from the 23d Special Tactics Squadron, 16th Special Operations Wing, assigned to Operational Detachment Alpha 163, Advanced Operational Base 160, forward Operational Base 12, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM VI, on 11 April 2005. On that date, the detachment responded to a no-notice air Quick Reaction Force (QRF) in direct support of an Anti-Coalition Militia (ACM) ambush. The target was General Khil Baz, the new Border Battalion Commander. The Khowst-Gardez pass (ambush site) is extremely rugged terrain and is a historical ACM ambush site. The detachment loaded two UH-60 aircraft; Technical Sergeant Reilly was in the second aircraft. Upon arrival at the ambush site the detachment was pointed in the direction of ACM egress. Once the aircraft flew over the area, the detachment was able to identify the suspected ACM. Technical Sergeant Reilly's aircraft landed and immediately began receiving a high rate of effective machine gun and small arms fire. The detachment returned fire and assaulted uphill to the enemy position, again while under heavy effective enemy machine-gun fire. The detachment overran the enemy machine gun position through the use of small arms, fragmentary grenades, and 40-mm. grenade fire. Once the detachment secured the enemy position, they began to receive an additional high rate of effective fire from three sides. The ACM forces were extremely close, well supplied, well trained, and dedicated, allowing them to sustain effective fires against the detachment. The majority of enemy fire was coming from down an extremely steep cliff. Immediately Master Sergeant Cooper and Technical Sergeant Reilly assaulted down the cliff in the direction of fire. During the assault, Master Sergeant Cooper was critically wounded in both legs and Technical Sergeant Reilly were pinned down approximately 100 meters down the cliff and isolated from additional detachment members. Even though Technical Sergeant Reilly was shot, he continued to return fire. During the lulls in the heavy machine gun fire, Technical Sergeant Reilly treated Master Sergeant Cooper's wounds, saving his life, and continued to control the rotary wing and fixed wing aircraft, control fires against the enemy forces (2 x AH-64's, 2 @ A-10's, and 2 x UH-60's). After the AH 64's departed the area, the still motivated enemy attempted to overrun Technical Sergeant Reilly and Master Sergeant Cooper's position. Technical Sergeant Reilly, additional detachment members, and a UH-60 provided suppressing fires to the advancing enemy forces, forcing them to retreat to cover ending up approximately 50 meters from Staff Sergeant Day, Master Sergeant Cooper, and Technical Sergeant Reilly's position. Technical Sergeant Reilly provided life saving medical care, controlled aircraft fires, and provided suppressive fires for approximately three hours while being wounded. Throughout this time, they were still receiving effective machine gun fire. At one point, he was willing to have all other USSF move back up hill and call in A-10 ordnance danger close to his position (200 Meters) to save other lives. Due to the stand-alone actions of Technical Sergeant Reilly, his medical expertise, marksmanship skills, and proficiency for controlling aircraft, Master Sergeant Cooper is alive today. The distinctive and life saving actions of Technical Sergeant Reilly reflects great credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, and the United States Air Force.

RIECKHOFF, KIRK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Kirk Rieckhoff, Captain, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 335th Fighter Squadron in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on an air mission over Afghanistan during Operation ANACONDA on 4 March 200.

RUSSELL, CHRIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Chris Russell, Captain, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 335th Fighter Squadron in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on an air mission during Operation ANACONDA in Afghanistan on 4 March 2002.

SEARS, MICHAEL F.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Michael F. Sears, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed enemy of the United States near the village of Mostowfi Waghez District, Ghazni Province, Afghanistan, on 29 September 2012. On that date, Sergeant Sears' combat prowess and skills were instrumental in neutralizing an improvised explosive device with two separate initiation triggers in order to provide freedom of movement to his convoy. After the route was cleared, Sergeant Sears' convoy was ambushed by the enemy in a complex attack from two well-fortified positions with rocket propelled grenades and snipers. A grenade struck the Polish Command vehicle, critically wounding its driver. Sergeant Sears immediately recognized the seriousness of the developing enemy ambush and with total disregard for his own safety, made the decision to dismount his vehicle in a known improvised explosive device infested area to move to a better vantage point where he could positively identify and engage the enemy. After dismounting his vehicle, Sergeant Sears witnessed a rocket propelled grenade fly within three to five feet of his truck's turret and continue on to strike the Polish command vehicle in the driver's side door. Without hesitation, again disregarding his own safety and realizing the threat from the insurgents' rocket propelled grenades and sniper fire, Sergeant Sears left the cover of his vehicle to run through 50 feet of open terrain to the aid of the wounded Soldier. As Sergeant Sears arrived at the vehicle, the Polish Soldier fell out of the vehicle into the enemy's life of fire. Sergeant Sears instinctively reacted and caught the wounded Soldier with his left arm bearing the Soldier's entire weight, injuring his left shoulder while maintaining positive control of his M4 carbine with his right arm. Grimacing through the pain, and while still being heavily engaged, Sergeant Sears used his body to protect the driver from heavy enemy fire, and he immediately began administering lifesaving tactical combat casualty care. After directly engaging the enemy, he placed a tourniquet on the Soldier's leg and checked his vital signs before sprinting again across open terrain through heavy gunfire to retrieve a Polish medic. He continued to provide protective fire for himself and the medic while sprinting back to the wounded Soldier in order to move the Soldier under better cover for further medical treatment. During this two-hour firefight, Sergeant Sears' actions enabled the safe extraction of the injured Soldier and the disabled vehicle while ensuring the continued safety of his 33-person convoy. By his gallantry and devotion to duty Sergeant Sears has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Galloway, New Jersey

SHERIDAN, DELOREAN M.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Delorean M. Sheridan, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States in Wardak Province, Afghanistan on 11 March 2013. On that date, while attached to a United States Special Forces Team, Sergeant Sheridan displayed extraordinary bravery and complete disregard for his own safety during a coordinated insider insurgent attack. Just prior to departing for a tactical ground movement, an Afghan National Police Officer engaged Sergeant Sheridan and his American and Afghan Special Forces teammates with a truck mounted machine gun from 25 feet away. Simultaneous to this attack, 15 to 20 insurgents located 150 meters south of his position also engaged the base with heavy AK-47 and PKM machine gun fire. With rounds impacting all around him and striking teammates immediately to his left and right, Sergeant Sheridan closed the distance with the shooter and leapt into the back of an armored vehicle in order to engage him. From the turret of the vehicle, Sergeant Sheridan engaged the shooter, twice with his pistol and nine times with an M-4 rifle until the shooter was dead. With the immediate threat neutralized, Sergeant Sheridan quickly exited the vehicle, returning to the kill zone in order to extract his wounded teammates. Sergeant Sheridan maneuvered through the heavy volume of gunfire streaming into the base and grabbed his wounded Team Leader by the shoulder strap, pulling him some 20 feet out of the field of fire to medical assistance. Sergeant Sheridan then transitioned the kill zone, once again moving through heavy insurgent machine gun fire, reaching his Team Sergeant and subsequently dragged him to safety. Still undaunted by the enemy fire, Sergeant Sheridan charged into the kill zone a third time in order to retrieve the infantry squad Noncommissioned Officer-in-Charge, pulling him to the casualty collection point. Within the next 30 minutes, Sergeant Sheridan methodically sequenced six medical evacuation aircraft, assisting with the litter transfer of wounded personnel while simultaneously directing close air support and surveillance aircraft. With the medical evacuation complete, Sergeant Sheridan located and directed aircraft to engage insurgents maneuvering towards the friendly location, resulting in four additional enemy fighters killed. Sergeant Sheridan's complete disregard for personal safety and extreme calm under pressure despite grave danger to himself and others directly resulted in saving the lives of 23 critically wounded personnel. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Sheridan has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Chesapeake, Virginia

SHORT, CHRIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Chris Short, Major, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 335th Fighter Squadron in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on an air mission over Afghanistan during Operation ANACONDA on 4 March 200.

SHROPSHIRE, MICHAEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael Shropshire, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States at Abu Sukhayr, Iraq, from 20 March 2003 to 25 March 2003. During this period, as the Enlisted Terminal Attack Controller, 15th Expeditionary Air Support Operations Squadron, supporting 3d Squadron, 7th U.S. Cavalry, 3d Infantry Division Mechanized for Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, Sergeant Shropshire's unit, while securing a key Euphrates River crossing, was immediately surrounded by enemy soldiers and paramilitary forces and began receiving fierce small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades. Surrounded, cutoff, under a hail of enemy gunfire and in the largest sandstorm in four decades, Sergeant Shropshire quickly coordinated close air support while constantly switching from the radio handset to his rifle, personally killing three enemy soldiers at close range. After receiving E-8C cueing, with complete disregard for his own safety and running low on ammunition, he left his armored personnel carrier during the blinding sandstorm to confirm enemy armor locations. While under intense enemy fire, Sergeant Shropshire single-handedly directed the employment of 12 joint direct attack munitions destroying ten T-72 tanks and dismounting enemy forces about to overrun the unit's position. After hastily repairing his bullet ridden satellite antenna and with not time to spare before the enemy reached his position, he quickly coordinated another air strike destroying additional approaching enemy armor. Throughout the battle, Sergeant Shropshire repeatedly placed himself in grave danger while performing his duties. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Shropshire has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Crawfordsville, Indiana

SMITH, BRADLEY R.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Senior Airman Bradley R. Smith, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 10th Air Support Operations Squadron, in action near Badvan village, Afghanistan, on 3 January 2010. On that date, Airman Smith's platoon was ambushed by simultaneous mortar, improvised explosive device, and machine gun fire while on foot patrol, leaving a Soldier and Airman immobilized in an adjacent creek and a second Soldier missing. Airman Smith, returning fire, ran without hesitation through the lethal crossfire into the creek to save his comrades. Still exposed to enemy fire, and without regard for his personal safety, he rescued the disoriented and blinded Airman from the water and recovered the mortally wounded Soldier. Airman Smith then administered rapid first aid to his fellow Airman's head and eyes. After stabilizing the wounded, Airman Smith continued returning fire and coordinated close air support. He controlled three formations of Kiowa attack helicopters, expending all available munitions on surrounding enemy positions. Airman Smith did not hesitate to act upon hearing of the still-missing Soldier's location. He volunteered to proceed 200 meters into the village to recover the Soldier, knowingly exposing himself to continued enemy fire for a second time while disregarding the dangers of the ongoing firefight and the risk, consequences, and threat of further improvised explosive devices as explained by the platoon leader. Determined not to leave a fallen comrade behind, he retrieved the dismembered Soldier and maneuvered toward the casualty collection point. A second improvised explosive device detonated as he approached the collection point, killing him instantly. By his gallantry and devotion to duty in the dedication of his service to his country, Airman Smith has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Troy, Illinois

SPARKS, ROGER D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Roger D. Sparks, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a Pararescue Jumper assigned to the 212th Rescue Squadron in the Watapur Valley, Afghanistan, on 14 November 2010. On that date, Sergeant Sparks responded to a call in support of Operation BULLDOG BITE and the Army's 101st Airborne Division. While in the air, circling the objective, the ground situation grew extremely hostile and the number of casualties increased from two to six. As a result of the increased fighting in the area, Sergeant Sparks' team took the lead position for the evacuation mission. With limited information regarding the ground situation, Sergeant Sparks and Captain Bailey began their 40 foot descent from the helicopter via a hoist to the ground and immediately began taking enemy fire. Bullets flew by the two pararescuers and the lowering cable was hit three times while they dangled in the air. They yelled for rapid descent and the flight engineer lowered them to the ground with enemy rounds flying all around. Upon reaching the ground the pair was assaulted with a rocket propelled grenade. Exploding just 20 feet away, the blast knocked them both off their feet. As the gunner engaged the enemy with danger close rounds, Sergeant Sparks ran approximately 70 yards uphill, to take cover. As he approached the tree, it was blown to pieces by another enemy fired rocket propelled grenade. Still under intense enemy fire, with bombs hammering danger close enemy positions, Sergeant Sparks performed lifesaving measures for nine wounded Soldiers. He feverishly triaged chest wounds, punctured lungs, shattered hips, fist-sized blast holds, eviscerated stomachs, and arterial bleeders with limited medical supplies and only the light of the moon. Upon return of evacuation aircraft, Sergeant Sparks directed evacuation of the injured while briefing crews on each casualty's injuries and medical needs, choosing to remain behind until the last man departed. His extraordinary efforts under direct, immediate danger to his own life resulted in saving four American lives, one Host Nation civilian and returning four Soldiers killed in action to their families. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Sparks has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Watauga, Texas

STAMEY, TIMOTHY A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Timothy A. Stamey, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 18th Air Support Operations Group in Afghanistan, from 8 November 2001 to 5 January 2002. During this period, Sergeant Stamey served as Operational Detachment Alpha Tactical Air Control Party Sergeant in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. While assisting host nation forces, he courageously operated in enemy territory in advance of the forward line of troops, frequently negotiating minefields under continuous fire and threat of attack, with no immediate support. Sergeant Stamey provided positive terminal attack control on over eighty sorties of fighters and bombers destroying over seventy-five tanks, mobile anti-aircraft systems, and vehicles, four ammo-dumps, numerous command and control facilities and bunkers, inflicting 2,139 enemy casualties. As a result, Northern Alliance forces were able to push forward cities of Taloqan, Khanabad and Konduz. From 13 to 15 November 2001, enemy forces initiated a counter-attack. Accordingly, the team received continuous small arms, direct heavy weapons and indirect and direct tank fire. Sergeant Stamey called in strikes against the attackers until they withdrew. On 23 November 2001, as allied forces were preparing for a final attack toward Khanabad and Konduz, Sergeant Stamey and the team members received sniper and heavy machine gun fire from enemy positions on three sides. He contacted a B-52, declared an emergency situation, and briefed the pilot. Sergeant Stamey then assisted in suppressing the enemy with small arms fire. With his team running low on ammunition, he passed his remaining ammunition out to the team members. Without regard for his personal safety and under intense fire, Sergeant Stamey crawled to their ammunition storage point, returned to resupply the team, and then resumed accurate sniper fire while awaiting additional close air support. When the aircraft arrived, he resumed terminal attack control and destroyed the advancing enemy. Sergeant Stamey's efforts directly contributed to the team's mission success. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Stamey has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Clarkesville, Georgia

STOCKDALE, MICHAEL C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Michael C. Stockdale, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a member of the 24th Special Tactics Squadron, from 6 December to 20 December 2001. During this period, Sergeant Stockdale excelled in multiple missions where he was directly engaged in combat actions against Taliban and al Qaeda forces. He provided surgical terminal attack control of close air support aircraft at a volume and accuracy not yet seen until this major offensive in the Tora Bora region of Afghanistan. Sergeant Stockdale volunteered to move to the forward most lines of battle to assist the local Afghan opposition group's assault on the key enemy fortified stronghold. While moving to the front, he came under heavy machine gun and 82 millimeter mortar fire as close as 25 meters. Though the other government forces stopped, he continued to press forward with complete disregard to his own personal safety. Positioned in front of the most forward troops, Sergeant Stockdale directed numerous close air support missions against the enemy dug in positions while under intense two-way direct and indirect fire. His actions rallied the other government forces and directly resulted in their most successful single day advance of 1400 meters, seizing the previously impenetrable key enemy stronghold. Sergeant Stockdale expertly controlled well over 300 close air support aircraft sorties of multiple F-15, F-16, B-1, B-52, F-14, AV-8B, and the full combat munitions expenditure of five AC-130 gunships. He skillfully ensured the pinpoint delivery of an incredible 600,000 pounds of munitions on enemy targets. In this 3-day period he averaged 13 hours of uninterrupted close air support control daily, an amazing display of dedication, expertise, and deadly destruction. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Stockdale has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Oceanside, California

STRASBURGER, RAYMOND T.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Raymond T. Strasburger, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, near Baghdad, Iraq, on 6 April 2003. On that date, while leading a flight of A-10 attack aircraft supporting Advance 33, a ground forward air controller attached to Task Force 2/69 Armor, Colonel Strasburger observed enemy tanks and armored infantry fighting vehicles engaging the Task Force's lead company from the east end of a bridge spanning the Tigris River. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Colonel Strasburger led his element through heavy anti-aircraft fire, overcame extremely reduced in-flight visibility caused by a sand storm and performed an initial reconnaissance run on the target. Giving away the element of surprise to the enemy anti-aircraft gunners, Colonel Strasburger, using the same attack heading to protect friendlies, repeatedly attacked the battalion sized armor element dug in on the east side of the Tigris River bridge. For 33 minutes, he and his wingman braved the ever-increasing hailstorm of anti-aircraft fire to kill or demobilize three T-72 tanks, six armored personnel carriers and multiple utility vehicles, all within striking distance of the friendly ground forces. This courageous and aggressive attack, while under withering fire and in poor weather, along with Colonel Strasburger's superior flying skills, allowed Task Force 2/69 Armor to press their northern attack with minimal combat losses, ultimately seizing their objective and linking up with adjoining coalition forces to complete the 360-degree encirclement of Baghdad. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Colonel Strasburger has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

SWARTZ, JOSHUA A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Joshua A. Swartz, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pararescue Sergeant of the 24th Special Tactics Squadron, while serving as a member in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, near Mayji, Iraq, on 8 April 2003. On this date, during a ten-hour combat mission, Sergeant Swartz provided key early warning, situation awareness, and combat medical care for his advanced reconnaissance element poised for a night assault. As the assault began, Sergeant Swartz's vehicle flanked the friendly coalition maneuver force when they discovered a possible enemy weapon. Upon investigation, his vehicle came under direct and heavy rocket and machine gun fire. For the next seven minutes a wave of fire ensued killing everything in its path. Both vehicles in his element were directly hit by rocket fire destroying the vehicles and inflicting immediate casualties and serious injuries to the eight man team, wounding Sergeant Swartz. Risking his life while still under fire, he pulled a seriously injured soldier from the hood of the burning vehicle. Using incredible strength, he moved the soldier to safety while still under direct enemy fire. Here, Sergeant Swartz briefly treated the wounded soldier and then returned to the burning vehicle to search for other members of his team. He located Staff Sergeant Sather, an Air Force Combat Controller, under the burning vehicle and immediately began to pull his body free from the burning vehicle. Sergeant Swartz's aggressive attempts to resuscitate the fallen Airman were without success and he unwillingly relented to the loss of his friend as he moved Sergeant Sather' s body clear of the burning vehicle. Upon his return to the first wounded soldier, he began to coordinate via radio to facilitate a link-up with friendly forces. After linking-up with friendly forces, Sergeant Swartz coordinated with the Ground Forces Commander for the accountability, treatment, and exfiltration of the entire team to include the recovery of his fallen teammate. With total disregard to his own life while under fire on numerous occasions, Sergeant Swartz's actions were directly responsible for saving the life of an Army soldier, aiding in saving the lives of his remaining team, and the recovery of Sergeant Sather. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Swartz has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

TAYLOR, BRUCE R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Bruce R. Taylor, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 711th Special Operations Squadron, 919th Operations Group, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM during an air mission over the Sar Sar Palace, Iraq, on 3 April 2003.

TOMAT, STEPHEN E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Stephen E. Tomat, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States, while serving with the 18th Air Support Operations Squadron in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, near Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan, from 25 October 2001 to 15 December 2001. During this period, Sergeant Tomat and the Special Forces team he was assigned to, accompanied host nation forces in the vicinity of Mazar-e-Sharif. The enemy launched an artillery barrage in an attempt to prevent their passage. Without delay, he determined the enemy position, positively identified the locations of all friendly forces, and called in close air support, destroying one ZSU 23-2, five personnel trucks, a bunker, and numerous enemy personnel. This action opened the Kuh-e-Al Borz Pass allowing friendly forces to push north and facilitate the situation, locate targets, and prepare the battlefield for the host nation assault through the Darya Suf Valley. While under fire, he called in close air support destroying all observed targets while simultaneously protecting the host nation forces allowing them to capture the town of Bai Beche. This attack resulted in the death of a key enemy commander, the capture of another, and the destruction of 150 enemy troops, preventing the enemy from further actions in that area of the operation. On 10 November 2001, Sergeant Tomat and the team entered the city of Mazar-e-Sharif to conduct a Direct Action mission on a hard-line enemy stronghold containing nine hundred enemy soldiers. They stated that they were unwilling to surrender and would fight to the death. Just 380 meters from the enemy position, while under direct small arms fire, Sergeant Tomat calmly highlighted the friendly location and called in close air support. Sergeant Tomat's expert control obliterated the enemy while keeping the friendly forces well inside of danger close safe from harm. The direct action mission resulted not only in the destruction of the enemy compound and over eight hundred Taliban personnel, but it also finalized the liberation of Mazar-e-Sharif. Sergeant Tomat's actions ultimately contributed to the liberation of six northern provinces and over fifty town and cities across more than one hundred square miles of extremely rough terrain. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Tomat has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Austin, Texas

VANCE, KEVIN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Kevin Vance, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 17th Air Support Operations Squadron and while attached to the U.S. Army's 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan during Operation ANACONDA on 4 March 2002. Following the death of four team members, Staff Sergeant Vance continued the mission by identifying enemy positions and directed successful strikes in "danger close" conditions in 10,000-foot mountain conditions. He directed two A-10s on strafing passes on enemy locations. His actions eliminated the immediate threat and deterred further attacks. He was integral in execution of the Joint Special Operations plan. When his mounted patrol was ambushed, he called for close air support. He coordinated mortar fire to mark the target, then calmly directed multiple drops of ordnance.
Born: at Vancouver, Washington
Home Town: Vancouver, Washington

VILLEGAS, ISMAEL
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Ismael Villegas, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States near Bagh Khosak, Afghanistan on 24 September 2009. On that date, Sergeant Villegas was the sole joint terminal attack controller for his Army Special Forces Team during a 16-hour firefight. Sergeant Villegas was part of a three-man dismounted element clearing explosive devices from the road when the enemy initiated an ambush with a remote controlled explosive device. The explosion was followed by accurate and intense heavy machine gun fire from nearby high terrain. Quickly identifying that his team members were pinned down in the enemy kill zone, Sergeant Villegas under direct enemy fire, charged 200 feet across an open, un-cleared improvised explosive device minefield to a more effective support-by-fire position and immediately returned fire with his personal weapon. Voluntarily, without hesitation, and at great personal risk, Sergeant Villegas repeatedly exposed himself to direct enemy fire in order to suppress the enemy attack and protect his teammates. He coordinated targets with the command element, and continued to return fire himself while surgically and lethally executing fires on enemy positions using artillery, rotary wing, and fixed wing close air support. Sergeant Villegas gallantly suppressed the enemy, protected his team, and neutralized numerous enemy threats without any collateral damage. His heroic and aggressive actions, under direct fire, saved the lives of his teammates and ensured mission success resulting in a total of 32 enemy insurgents killed in action. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Villegas has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Del Rio, Texas

VILLEGAS, ISMAEL
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Ismael Villegas, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States near the Helmand Province, Afghanistan from 6 February 2011 to 24 February 2011. During this period, Sergeant Villegas selflessly and repeatedly risked his life during nonstop enemy engagements. When a friendly element was pinned down by hostile fire, Sergeant Villegas, with total disregard for his own personal safety, ran towards the vulnerable troops to gather intelligence on the insurgent fortified positions. Totally exposed to the barrage of enemy fire, he decisively utilized overhead unmanned aerial vehicles and fixed wing close air support to decimate the hostiles delivering a 14,000-pound bombardment. Sergeant Villegas volunteered for a patrol to conduct sensitive site exploitation where his element encountered another hostile assault of recoilless rifle and machine gun rounds impacting within feet of their position. After a Special Forces teammate directly beside him was struck by rocket propelled grenade shrapnel he laid down covering fire and moved to the wounded warrior completely exposing himself to the heavy enemy fire. Sergeant Villegas pulled his teammate behind a wall and placed himself between the adversary and his team as he provided additional cover fire. He controlled fixed wing close air support within 60 meters and danger close to friendly positions in order to disrupt the onslaught long enough for Sergeant Villegas and the rest of the patrol to fight their way out of the kill zone. Over the 18-day mission, riddled with ferocious trench warfare battles, Sergeant Villegas controlled 40 aircraft, delivering over 32,500 pounds of precision ordnance, resulting in 21 enemy confirmed killed in action and destroyed eight fighting positions and two communication repeaters. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Villegas has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Del Rio, Texas

WHALEN, KEVIN G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Kevin G. Whalen, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with as a member of the Tactical Air Control Party, 116th Air Support Operations Squadron, in the Gayan Valley, Afghanistan, on 19 July 2003. On that date, Sergeant Whalen, while serving in Operation ENDURING FREEDOM and attached to the Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 344, was involved in a sustained fire fight with Taliban and Al Qaeda forces. Sergeant Whalen was part of a combat patrol in the Gayan Valley. The lead vehicle, comprised of Afghan Military Forces, was struck by extremely accurate small arms fire, critically wounding one soldier and forcing the convoy to stall in the kill zone. Sergeant Whalen immediately returned effective fire with the MK-19 automatic grenade launcher. With total disregard for his own safety and while exposed to enemy fire, Sergeant Whalen elected to remain on the weapon system to allow his team members and the Afghan Military Forces to secure covered positions. Although receiving effective fire from three directions, Sergeant Whalen continued to engage enemy positions until his weapon malfunctioned due to 6 direct hits. While restoring his weapon, Sergeant Whalen received small arms fire in the left arm and was hit in the abdomen just below his protective body armor plate. Sergeant Whalen dropped through the turret and crawled out of the driver's door of the vehicle where he began self-aid. While attempting to stop his own bleeding he recovered his radio and requested immediate Close Air Support. Sergeant Whalen received two Marine Corps Harriers to aid in the team's defense. However, the Afghan Military Forces had now reached the attackers and were now in extremely close proximity. To ensure the safety of friendly forces, Sergeant Whalen immediately began talking the pilots on to coalition positions. Although wounded and fighting off the effects of oncoming shock, Sergeant Whalen retained the presence of mind to restrict the Harriers to guns only while engaging fortified enemy positions along the ridgeline halting enemy actions. Through his selfless actions the team was able to recover the disabled vehicle and exit the kill zone. Sergeant Whalen insisted that the other wounded soldiers be evacuated first and retained control of supporting aircraft until he received a medical evacuation himself. Displaying tenacity, he refused to stay in the hospital and returned to his team 48 hours later to continue combat missions. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Whalen has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Olympia, Washington

WINSMANN, JIM
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jim Winsmann, Major, U.S. Air Force (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 711th Special Operations Squadron, 919th Operations Group, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM during an air mission over the Sar Sar Palace, Iraq, on 3 April 2003.

YOUNG, DALE C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Dale C. Young, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron near Helmand Province, Afghanistan, from 19 May 2009 to 23 May 2009. During that period, Sergeant Young served as the primary Combat Control Joint Terminal Attack Controller assigned to an Army Special Forces Team. While conducting Operation SIEGE ENGINE, Sergeant Young's element came under immediate and continuous enemy fire from the moment of infiltration and continued for the next 94 hours. Taliban insurgents maintained stiff resistance from as close as 150 meters from Sergeant Young's position. During the fighting, the enemy effectively utilized direct small arms fire, rocket propelled grenades and 107-millimeter rockets. Sergeant Young assumed great risk as he controlled up to eleven coalition aircraft and ensured safe and effective fires were placed on the enemy positions, while he simultaneously mitigated collateral damage. In fact, on numerous occasions enemy small arms and rocket fire impacted within ten meters of Sergeant Young's position. Sergeant Young's calm demeanor under fire, leadership in the face of grave danger and ability to simultaneously conduct precision attacks utilizing all forms of coalition aircraft in the chaotic environment, undoubtedly saved the lives of numerous personnel and ensured the destruction of a black tar opium cache valued at more than one billion dollars. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Young has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Home Town: Akron, Ohio

YOSHIDA, ALAN T.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Alan T. Yoshida, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron near Sayyd Alma Kalay, Afghanistan, from 30 November to 4 December 2001. Sergeant Yoshida rode with the lead elements of Northern Alliance Commander Hamid Karzai's ground force as they advanced and seized the town of Sayyd Alma Kalay. On the night of 3 December 2001, in an attempt to reoccupy the town, Taliban forces launched a major counterattack across the Arghendab River forcing a majority of the Northern Alliance soldiers to retreat to the north. Over the next eight hours, despite being outnumbered two to one and in grave danger of being overrun, Sergeant Yoshida orchestrated numerous danger-close air strikes, crushing the Taliban attack and forcing the enemy to retreat to the southern side of the river, saving both his team members and hundreds of Afghanis in the nearby town. On 4 December 2001, Sergeant Yoshida, accompanied by friendly forces, attacked a critical hilltop overlooking the only bridge in the sector crossing the Arghendab River. While exposed to intense machine-gun fire and rocket-propelled grenades, Sergeant Yoshida advanced toward the hilltop to ascertain the location of three key targets on the hillside. Under heavy fire, Sergeant Yoshida meticulously plotted out the enemy positions, developed aircraft attack restrictions and determined optimal munitions selection, resulting in neutralization of the enemy threat, survival of friendly forces and ensuring the strategically vital bridge remained intact. Staff Sergeant Yoshida's heroic actions prevented a second friendly retreat and directly resulted in the occupation of the critical hilltop by friendly forces. Less than 24 hours later, the Taliban requested a cease-fire and sent a delegation to surrender the city of Kandahar to Hamid Karzai. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Yoshida has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.