* Interesting Notes:
Specialist Michael A. Bishop is a double recipient of the ARCOM with “V” device
LTC William Brock assisted in a surgery to remove an RPG from a casualty`s abdomen
Specialist Shane A. Courville is also the recipient of the Bronze Star with `V` device
Staff Sergeant Anderson Jarvis earned the ARCOM with “V” device twice.
SPC Anthony C. Ledington`s actions saved the lives of two severely wounded civilians during sustained enemy contact of over 40 minutes and 4 IEDs.
* Denotes Posthumous Award
BEACHUM, KIRK L. Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
1st Battalion, 16th Infantry, 213th Area Support Group
Date of Action: 2007
Synopsis: Narrative Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Kirk L. Beachum, a member of 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry, 213th Area Support Group. For exceptionally meritorious achievement with valor while serving as a company medic during Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-08. Specialist Beachum’s dedication to duty, technical ability, and tactical proficiency were instrumental in the successful execution of the medical evacuation of coalition force Soldiers. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions and values of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry, 213th Area Support Group, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 235-001, Headquarters, 213th Area Support Group, 23 August 2007
BINAN, JOSEPH D.
Private First Class, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
HHC, TF 1-41 IN, Camp Liberty, Baghdad, Iraq
Date of Action: 27 August 2004
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for heroism is awarded to Private First Class Joseph D. Binan, HHC, TF 1-41 IN, Camp Liberty, Baghdad, Iraq for valorous action on 27 August 2004 at the District Advisory Council building. Private First Class Binan’s unwavering medical assistance under enemy mortar fire led to the successful treatment and safe evacuation of Specialist ****** and one Iraqi National Guard Soldier. Private First Class Binan’s personal bravery and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon him, the Stalwart Battalion, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 62-01, 2nd BDE, 10th MTN DIV (LV1), Fort Drum, NY, Date unknown.
BISHOP, MICHAEL A. (First Award)
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
50th Medical Company, 44th Medical Command
Date of Action: 17 February 2005
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Michael A. Bishop, a member of the 50th Medical Company, 44th Medical Command. For meritorious heroism during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Specialist Bishop’s valorous actions and dedication to duty during combat operations in Iraq contributed to the overwhelming success of the command’s mission. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Multi-National Corps Iraq, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 160-003, Headquarters, MNC-I, 9 June 2005
Narrative:
On 17 February 2005, serving as the flight medic on the first-up MEDEVAC crew, Eagle Dustoff 56, SPC Bishop launched to a VBIED site in Southern Baghdad, Iraq (MB 315 283). When the crew launched there was little known about the tactical situation on the ground, except there were two U.S. military urgent surgical patients. At the time, it was known that the ground forces (D Troop, 2nd Battalion, 11th ACR) had been engaged by enemy forces within the last 20 minutes when their convoy was attacked by a VBIED and small arms fire. Upon arriving at the scene, the crew of Eagle Dustoff 56 established radio communications with D Troop, 11th ACR and were instructed to land to a smoke signal South East of the two casualties on a hard ball road. A platoon minus from D Troop, 11th ACR with four gun truck HMMWVs and approximately 15 Soldiers provided limited security at the site which was over 250 meters long and 75 meters wide. At this time, SPC Bishop immediately exited the aircraft with his aid bag and ran through smoke and debris to the closest patient about 50 meters from the aircraft. SPC Bishop then directed SPC _______, Eagle Dustoff 56’s Crew Chief, to bring him two litters. SPC Bishop then proceeded to the closest patient (Platoon leader D Troop, 11th ACR) 50 meters from the aircraft. He completed the initial assessment, casualty was stable at which time he was directed to move to another more critical U.S. military casualty about 1 50 meters from the first casualty. After sprinting 150 meters with no cover down a wide open hard ball road from the first casualty through smoke, debris and only 5 meters from the remains of the VBIED, SPC Bishop arrived at the second casualty to discover that the patient was suffering from an eviscerated abdomen, shrapnel wounds to his left arm, right leg, face and going into shock and SPC Bishop started immediate medical attention. After SPC Bishop performed the initial assessment, SPC _______ arrived with the second litter. SPC Bishop started to roll the casualty over in order to assess wounds to the back when four to eight enemy personnel approximately 40 meters to the South West from a building roof top engaged the site with small arms fire impacting in the immediate vicinity. SPC _______ then repositioned himself from a security position to another position consciously knowing that he was actually placing himself between the medic/patient and the enemy in order to protect them and he was the first to return fire directed at the four to eight enemy personnel on a roof top approximately 40 meters away before the ground forces could react and return fire. With absolutely no regard for his own personal safety, SPC Bishop threw his own body over the casualty in order to protect the patient. SPC Bishop un-holstered his M9 but was unable to make visual contact with the enemy. While under direct fire, he quickly proceeded to drag the patient behind the closest gun truck HMMWV in order to provide the casualty with additional protection from further injury while the four to eight enemy personnel were still engaging them with direct small arms fire and rounds impacted the ground around him. After several seconds of firing, a cease fire was called and SPC Bishop ensured the casualty and no one else were wounded. The casualty was then transported 150 meters on a litter along with the other casualty and taken to the aircraft for evacuation. SPC Bishop continued to treat both casualties while en-route to the 86th CSH. Throughout the entire time spent on the ground, SPC Bishop displayed tremendous courage, initiative and complete disregard for his own safety to ensure that the casualties were safely protected, treated and evacuated with the best care possible.
BISHOP, MICHAEL A. (Second Award)
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
50th Medical Company, 44th Medical Command
Date of Action: 15 March 2005
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Michael A. Bishop, a member of the 50th Medical Company (AA), 44th Medical Command. For valorous action as the medic of Eagle Dustoff 57. While flying over Baghdad, Eagle Dustoff 57 witnessed a VBIED that exploded on a patrol. Specialist Bishop demonstrated exceptional courage and commitment by exiting his helicopter at the site of the attack in order to MEDEVAC the wounded Soldiers. While on the ground, a VBIED exploded within 75 meters and Specialist Bishop’s helicopter was forced to take off without him. His actions reflect great credit upon him, the 50th Medical Company, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 75-04, Headquarters, 2nd BDE, 10th Mountain Division (LI), 15 March 2005
Narrative:
Serving as the flight medic for the second up MEDEVAC crew, Eagle Dustoff 57, SPC Bishop launched on a priority mission to pick up a patient from Mercy Base and transport them to the 86th CSH. While in route from Mercy Base to the CSH, the crew noticed a U.S. Military convoy that had been hit by a VBIED (Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device) at MB 3617 8267. The aircraft initially performed a high orbit over the site to gain a better assessment of the ground tactical situation. While performing the recon, the crew chief, SGT ________, noticed that there were U.S. casualties on the ground and Soldiers had set up a hasty Casualty Collection Point (CCP). The aircraft then performed a low orbit over the site in order to get the attention of the ground unit because they were unable to establish radio communications. While performing the low level recon, the crew noticed one of the Soldiers on the ground signaling to the aircraft. The aircraft performed one more orbit and then made its approach to a small road about 100 meters from of the VBIED. The ground unit had setup security to the 12 and 6 o’clock position of the aircraft. While on approach to the small road, the pilot noticed a burning propane tank in the middle of the road. SPC Bishop instructed the pilot on the controls to land about 50 meters ahead of the burning propane tank. On final approach, the aircraft entered brown-out conditions; SPC Bishop assisted SGT _______ in calling the aircraft into the confined LZ and keeping the aircraft away from the wire hazards on either side of the road. Immediately upon landing SPC Bishop exited the aircraft with his aid bag and proceeded towards the patients. Within seconds of landing, a second VBIED exploded to the 5 o’clock position of the aircraft approximately 60 meters from the aircraft. The aircraft egressed from the area within seconds after the second VBIED without the medic or crew chief on board. SPC Bishop immediately assumed the prone position knowing he was out in the open without cover or concealment. After the smoke and dust had cleared, SPC Bishop located SGT _______ standing beside a Bradley Fighting Vehicle and then ran to safety. SPC Bishop and SGT _______ were loaded into the Bradley for their own safety and moved to a safe location. After several minutes had passed, SGT _______ was able to contact the aircraft using his survival radio. He advised the aircraft that the LZ was secure and they were cleared to land and pick-up the crewmembers. The ground unit already evacuated their patients to the 86th CSH by HMMWV after the second IED blast because they thought the aircraft had been severely damaged. After landing, SGT _______ and SPC Bishop returned to the aircraft and took off in route to the 86th CSH. Upon arrival at the CSH, the aircraft shutdown and SPC Bishop immediately ran to the ground element’s vehicles and helped treat and unload the patients that had been injured in the initial VBIED blast. SPC Bishop’s quick thinking and tactical awareness allowed for the safety of his crew and the aircraft throughout the entire incident.
BROCK, WILLIAM
Lieutenant Colonel, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
759th Medical Detachment, Forward Surgical Team, 10th Mountain Division
Date of Action: March 2006
Synopsis: Citation Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is awarded to Lieutenant Colonel William Brock. On this day, LTC Brock was on duty at the Camp Aned Battalion Aid Station on the Afghanistan/Pakistan border when a Soldier was rushed in with an abdominal wound. As the medics started cutting away the clothes and dressings they noticed a metal bar with fins protruding from the wounded Soldier`s stomach. Initially, all but the surgeons and explosive ordnance personnel were ordered out of the room. After determining the risk of explosion, LTC Brock, MAJ John Oh and 5 others prepared to perform the surgery to remove the rocket propelled grenade wearing their surgical scrubs beneath Kevlar vests and ballistic helmets. LTC Brock intubated the Soldier, allowing necessary fluids to replenish the patient`s body, and MAJ Oh was able to delicately remove the grenade. EOD personnel took control of the grenade while the team finished the surgery. The bravery displayed by LTC Brock in performing lifesaving surgery without regard for his own personal safety reflects the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the United States Army
General Orders: Permanent Order number unknown, Darnall Army Medical Center Public Affairs, 1 February 2007
Home of Record: Dallas, TX
CARDONE, TODD R.
Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
3d Squadron, 7th United States Cavalry, 3d Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24-25 March 2003
Synopsis: Citation Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is awarded to Sergeant Todd R. Cardone, United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During a convoy on 24-25 March 2003 while in command of Evac-3, a M113, Sergeant Cardone demonstrated exemplary tactical leadership skills, while under aimed fire from a known enemy near the town of Al Najaf. Sergeant Cardone successfully positioned the vehicle in between the casualties and the enemy for the safe extraction and evacuation of two vehicle crews. Sergeant Cardone also provided security for the forward aid station crew, crew of an Engineer vehicle, and four Soldiers in an overturned front line ambulance. His personal bravery, decisive action, and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest tradition of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, 3d Squadron, 7th United States Cavalry, 3d Infantry Division `Rock of the Marne`, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Orders Unknown, Military Times Hall of Valor
COURVILLE, SHANE A.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
HHC, 2nd Brigade, Camp Liberty, Baghdad, Iraq
Date of Action: 9 November 2004
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Shane A. Courville for valorous achievement during combat operations on 9 November 2004 when his combat patrol was ambushed along route Cardinals. Specialist Courville maneuvered through small arms and RPG fire to treat wounded Soldiers and civilians with total disregard for his own personal safety. Specialist Courville maintained his calm and resolve, resulting in many lives saved. SPC Courville`s actions reflect great credit upon him, the 1st Cavalry Division and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
On 9 November 2004 SPC Courville`s unit had just finished inspecting hospitals in Baghdad for ongoing improvement projects and were moving toward Abu Ghraib to hand out blankets to a local school. An improvised explosive device exploded. The patrol dismounted and began directing fire toward the enemy when the Deputy Commander was hit and fell to the ground. A call went out for a medic, but SPC Courville was already running through the smoke toward the wounded commander. While treating the Soldier, three RPGs were fired at the convoy and enemy fire was directed at SPC Courville`s position. In spite of the fire, SPC Courville continued to treat the commander without regard for his own personal safety. With help from another Soldier, he loaded the patient into a vehicle and continued medical treatment. Moments later a second IED was detonated underneath a Humvee. The Soldiers again dismounted. Another member of the patrol noticed a group of civilians that had been injured. SPC Courville immediately began treating them and organized them in a triage. A platoon of Bradley Fighting vehicle came in to reinforce the area. Once the civilians were treated, the wounded were loaded into the Bradley vehicles for transport to a hospital for further treatment. SPC Courville stayed with the wounded until they arrived at the hospital.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 337-03, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade, Camp Liberty, Baghdad, Iraq, Darnall Army Medical Center Public Affairs, 1 February 2007
DELGADO, RAFAEL
Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division
Date of Action: unknown date
Synopsis: Citation Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is awarded to Sergeant Rafael Delgado, for valorous achievement as a medic while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. For selfless and valorous actions to save the lives of fellow team members after an improvised-explosives device struck his vehicle. Sergeant Delgado reacted immediately providing emergency medical treatment to Soldiers in the vehicle at the risk of his own life. SGT Delgado`s actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order unknown. 1st Brigade Combat Team PAO, 4th Infantry Division
DYBDAHL, SAMUEL H.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Task Force Iron Gray, Task Force Bastogne, Combined Joint Task Force 101
Date of Action: Date unknown, 2010
Synopsis: Citation Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is REPORTEDLY awarded to Specialist Samuel H. Dybdahl for exceptionally valorous achievement while serving as a Platoon Medic in support of Operation Enduring Freedom 10-11 in Ospana Malakh 9, Laghman Province, Afghanistan. Specialist Dybdahl`s outstanding medical skill, calmness, bravery under intense enemy fire, and dedication to duty and excellence, reflects distinct credit upon him, Task Force `Iron Gray`, Task Force `Bastogne,` the Combined Joint Task Force 101, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 276-118, HQ, Unknown, 3 October 2010, Military Times Hall of Valor
FEARS, ROBERT B.
Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Operational Mentor Liaison Team 1.6, 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Date of Action: 22 September 2011
Citation: By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-17, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for heroism is awarded to Sergeant Robert B. Fears, Operational Mentor Liaison Team 1.6, 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. For exceptionally valorous achievement while assigned as a mentor and Combat Medic of 2nd COY of the Combined US/HU/ANA OMLT-A 1.6 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. SGT Fears defended his team, helped neutralize the threat, and treated wounded personnel after his team came under direct automatic weapons and RPG fire during contact with the enemy. SGT Fears’ actions reflect distinct credit upon himself, the 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and the United States Army. Narrative (BOLD) Sergeant Robert B. Fears, United States Army, distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous service as a mentor and the US Combat Medic of the 2nd Coy of the combined US/HU/ANA OMLT-A 1.6, United States Forces-Afghanistan, during Operation Enduring Freedom. On 22 September 2011, SGT Fears accomplished an arduous dismounted night combat movement and performed his critical tasks in combat outstandingly. Beginning on a clear, cold (40F) morning at 0200hrs, 2nd Coy traversed a very rugged river bed at about 5200’ elevation, forded the Andarab river in several areas, and climbed up a goat trail on the face of a 40 foot cliff outside the village of Arzangan. After moving up the cliff, 2nd Coy traveled through thick vegetated areas along slippery dikes, where SGT Fears injured his knee during a fall but pressed on. The command group, of which SGT Fears was a part, halted at the village wall and was fired upon at less than twenty meters distance with small arms and RPGs at 0515hrs. SGT Fears and the command team responded with small arms and RGG fire, neutralizing the threat. The fighting continued for 45 minutes. SGT Fears assessed and treated two captured enemy personnel during this unstable and dangerous situation. His actions saved the life of one insurgent, allowing him to be turned over to ANCOP forces for intelligence exploitation. SGT Fears’ on-target, expert advice and actions allowed the commander to concentrate fully upon tactical disposition and execution rather than the distraction of visibly injured and screaming insurgents. Through his distinctive accomplishments and exemplary duty performance, Sergeant Robert B. Fears reflects great credit upon himself, the United States Forces-Afghanistan, Kabul, Afghanistan, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 332-003, 28 November 2011. Headquarters, 170th IBCT, Camp Mike Spann, APO, AE 09368
GUERRA, JOSEPH L.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
3D Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Date of Action: 7 May 2012
Synopsis: Citation Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is REPORTEDLY awarded to Specialist Joseph L. Guerra, United States Army, for exceptionally valorous achievement to the United States on 7 May 2012 as a medic in 3d Squadron, 73d Cavalry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division. The lead vehicle in Specialist Guerra`s convoy was struck by a command wire IED. Specialist Guerra moved his vehicle from the back of the formation so that he was adjacent to the second vehicle. Specialist Guerra dismounted under enemy fire and began rendering medical aid and took the lead on extracting a casualty from the lead vehicle. Specialist Guerra`s disregard for his personal wellbeing to help his fellow comrades brings great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 224-02, Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, date unknown, Military Times Hall of Valor
HALL, DARREN M.
Sergeant First Class, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
A Company, 402nd Civil Affairs Battalion, 3rd BCT, 82nd ABN DIV
Date of Action: 31 August 2006
Citation: By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for exceptionally valorious conduct in the face of the enemy on 31 August 2006. Sergeant First Class Hall quickly reacted during an attack on coalition forces. While under fire, he advanced to the damaged vehicle and began treating the wounded Soldiers and moving them to other vehicles. Sergeant First Class Hall distinguished himself by putting other Soldiers safety and care above his own. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon him, the 402nd Civil Affairs Battalion, and the United States Army.
Narrative: SFC Darren M. Hall, United States Army, distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service to the United States as Company Medic and NCOIC of Convoy Security, A CO. 402ND CA BN 3BCT 101, COB Speicher, 31 AUG 06 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. On 31 August 2006 SFC Hall`s four vehicle convoy was assisting a team from the Salah ad Din PRT (Provisional Reconstruction Team) in a Courthouse assessment in Ad Dawr, Iraq. During the assessment SFC Hall`s element started to take sporadic small arms fire and received 1x fragmentation grenade attack on their northeast perimeter, at the Courthouse, within ten meters of a security position. During this time SFC Hall kept his convoy and Soldiers under positive control and restraint. The order was given to all convoy personnel to return to their vehicles and prepare to exit the courthouse site. At that time a convoy from 2/B.3-320 passed the courthouse heading north on ASR (Alternate Supply Route) Dover. Approximately one minute later SFC Hall heard a large explosion, north of the courthouse, and he exited the courthouse compound onto Dover to assess the situation. He saw that one of the 2/B/3-320 vehicles had been hit by a possible IED (Improvised Explosive Device). SFC Hall called to his convoy, over portable radio, to inform them that the 3-320th convoy had been hit by a possible IED. SFC Hall`s convoy, led by Convoy Commander CPT ______ ________, exited the courthouse compound, and took up a blocking position in the intersection north of the courthouse on Dover. While holding security, SFC Hall heard on the radio the 3-320 had located the hit vehicle, which had rolled away during the initial attack, and they had a possible KIA (Killed In Action) and WIA (Wounded In Action), and were taking small arms fire. At this time SFC Hall advanced his vehicle and another from his element to the site of the damage vehicle. Without regard to his own personal safety SFC Hall exited his vehicle while under fire, retrieved his medial trauma bag from the back hatch and advanced to the damaged vehicle. At the damaged vehicle, SFC Hall climbed into the vehicle and started a medical assessment of the crew. SFC Hall then determined that the vehicle commander was KIA. In order to complete his assessment, SFC Hall exited the vehicle to get to the other crew members, and started to treat the wounded crew members under fire. Once SFC Hall had completed his medical assessment of the crew members he arranged for the wounded Soldiers evacuation. He cross loaded each wounded Soldier into other vehicles with combat lifesavers for evacuation back to COB Speicher. When the damaged vehicle was ready to be towed out of the area, SFC Hall volunteered to drive the damaged vehicle with the fallen Soldier back to COB Speicher. Once back on COB Speicher SFC Hall personally took charge of the extrication of the deceased Soldiers body from the damaged vehicle then transferred him to awaiting CSH (Combat Support Hospital) personnel. SFC Hall did distinguish himself by putting other Soldiers safety and care above his own safety. His actions are in keeping with the finest tradition of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, this Command, and United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 322-2, Headquarters, 3rd BCT, 82nd Airborne Division
*HARMON, JOSHUA S.
Corporal, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
35TH Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 25th Light Infantry Division
Date of Action: unknown date, 2007
Synopsis: Citation Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is awarded to Corporal Joshua S. Harmon, for valorous achievement while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom during combat operations in 2007. Corporal Harmon, without regard for his own personal safety, rushed to the aid of wounded Soldier while in the midst of a battle. He drug the Soldier to a place of relative safety and immediately performed lifesaving measures which saved the life of the Soldier. His valor reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number unknown. Reported by 25th Light Infantry Division PAO.
JARVIS, ANDERSON (First Award)
Staff Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
A Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, Task Force 1-36, Hit, Iraq
Date of Action: 28 November 2006
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with “Valor” Device for heroism is awarded to Staff Sergeant Anderson Jarvis, a member of Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment for exceptionally valorous service during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sergeant Jarvis’ heroic actions during combat operations in Iraq contributed to the overwhelming success of the Command’s Mission. Staff Sergeant Jarvis’ bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflects distinct credit upon himself, the Ready First Combat Team, and the United States Army.
Narrative to accompany the award:
Staff Sergeant Anderson Jarvis, United States Army, heroically distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct in the face of the enemy of the United States as a combat medic, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry, Task Force 1-36, Hit, Iraq, on 28 November 2006 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. On 28 November 2006, a section from 2nd platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment was conducting a counter-mortar and route clearance patrol through the city of Hit, Iraq. The trail Bradley fighting Vehicle was struck by an IED containing 250 pounds of explosive. The IED flipped the Bradley onto its side, instantly killing the driver and wounding three crewmen; two Soldiers required immediate medical evacuation for wounds classified as urgent surgical. An additional Sodier was wounded by small arms fire and required immediate evacuation as well. Immediately, the Quick Reaction Force was dispatched to evacuate the wounded. SSG Jarvis, the senior medic in the company, manned his M113 ambulance vehicle as the vehicle commander and departed with the QRF. Upon arrival at the scene, SSG Jarvis maneuvered his M113 into a position to safely drop the ramp and evacuate the wounded. The M113 began to take small arms fire from multiple locations. SSG Jarvis continued to load the wounded on his vehicle. Once all wounded personnel were loaded, he returned to the battalion aid station. While en-route to the aid station, his vehicle continued to take sporadic small arms fire. SSG Jarvis continued to administer first aid to the three wounded Soldiers stabilizing them for further medical evacuation to Al Assad and Ballad. SSG Jarvis’ heroic actions were directly responsible for the safety and welfare of three severely wounded Soldiers. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect great credit upon himself, the Ready First Combat Team, the Multi-National Corps – Iraq, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 017-012, Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, 17 January 2007
JARVIS, ANDERSON (Second Award)
Staff Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
A Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Division
Date of Action: 2006
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with “Valor” Device for heroism is awarded to Staff Sergeant Anderson Jarvis, a member of Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment for exceptionally valorous service during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sergeant Jarvis’ outstanding dedication to duty during combat operations contributed to the overwhelming success of the Command’s Mission. His bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflects distinct credit upon himself, the Ready First Combat Team, and the United States Army.
Narrative to accompany the award needed
General Orders: Permanent Order number 286-039, Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, 13 October 2006
JIMENEZ, ALEXANDER
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
D Company, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 4 October 2018
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Alexander Jimenez for Valorous achievement as a medic while deployed in support of Operation Freedom`s Sentinel. Specialist Jimenez acted with exceptional poise which enabled speedy and superlative treatment of the casualty. Specialist Jimenez`s distinctive accomplishments reflect great credit upon himself, Train, Advise, Assist Command South, and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
On this date Specialist Jimenez was assigned to TRF with First Platoon Delta Company. The QRF was directed to move into a Red Condition One status in order to assist with the recovery of a vehicle and mine roller, which hit an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). While the EOD team started clearing the area a second IED was set off next to the B15 vehicle. One of the personnel from the EOD Team was struck by the IED during the explosion. Knowing the site had not been cleared, and with total disregard to his own life, SPC Jimenez ran from his vehicle, approximately 50 meters, to the site of the casualty. SPC Jimenez was the first person on the site of the casualty and took control of the scene. He began to administer care to the casualty by applying tourniquets to his legs and right arm. He determined that application of the tourniquet was not possible on the left leg and manually applied pressure on the artery. He instructed other Soldiers to give further medical attention. SPC Jimenez gave the ground Platoon Sergeant the information for the 9 line Medical Evacuation request. He and his team prepared the casualty for movement to the MEDEVAC aircraft. SPC Jimenez accompanied the casualty to the aircraft and handed the Tactical Combat Casualty Care card to the flight medic with the detailed care of the casualty. Throughout the entire endeavor, SPC Jimenez acted with exceptional poise. SPC Jimenez`s demonstrated a calm and determined attitude throughout the treatment of the casualty, which enabled speedy and superlative treatment and transport of the casualty.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 015-108, Headquarters, United States Forces, Afghanistan, 15 January 2019
KATHOL, BRIAN
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Charlie Battery, 1st Battalion, 27th Field Artillery
Date of Action: 19 September 2003
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Brian Kathol, Charlie Battery Medic, 1st Battalion, 27th Field Artillery for exceptionally valorous actions on 19 September 2003 while responding to a roadside improvised explosive device during a TF Bullet captured enemy ammunition convoy for the 82nd Airborne Division. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, the “Gridsmasher” Battalion, the 41st Field Artillery “Railgunner” Brigade and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 336-01, Headquarters, 41st Field Artillery Brigade, 18 November 2003
KING, CLAYTON J.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Third Platoon, A Company, Task Force Stalwart, TAAC-S
Date of Action: 4 October 2018
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Clayton J. King, for valorous achievement as a medic while deployed in support of Operation Freedom`s Sentinel on 4 October 2018. Specialist King acted with exceptional poise which enabled speedy and superlative treatment of the casualty. Specialist King`s distinctive accomplishments reflect great credit upon himself, Train, Advise, Assist Command-South, and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
SPC Clayton J. King distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous service to the United States as the Medic assigned to Third Platoon, Alpha Company, Task Force Stalwart on 4 October 2018 in support of Operation Freedom`s Sentinel. During this period, SPC King observed the lead vehicle strike an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) during a mounted patrol. Upon the initial IED strike, SPC King immediately prepared the CAEVAC vehicle to receive casualties. The vehicle that was hit reported no serious casualties. With the high probability of secondary and tertiary devices in the immediate area, a Quick Reaction Force with an Explosive Ordinance Disposal team was dispatched in support of third platoon. The EOD safely extracted the Soldiers and sent them to the CASEVAC vehicle for medical screening. The EOD began a secondary sweep to allow recovery assets to move into position. During this sweep, one of the members was struck by an IED. Without hesitation, SPC King took it upon himself to knowingly move through uncleared terrain, with zero regard to his own life, to provide medical aid to the wounded Soldier. Upon arrival to the treatment site, with exceptional professionalism, SPC King used his Combat Medical skills to treat the Soldier in the vicinity of the kill zone which was still not cleared of additional devices. SPC King began to provide aid to the Soldier who was confirmed to be a double above the knee amputee. SPC King`s calm demeanor and ability to give precise direction to others in a chaotic environment directly enabled the quick evacuation of the casualty. Once the 9 line MEDEVAC request was sent, SPC King again knowingly moved through uncleared terrain to get the casualty to the CASEVAC vehicle for movement to the Helicopter Landing Zone. SPC King`s professionalism, and never-quit mentality, were proven again by him continuing to provide aid to the casualty. The area SPC King moved through was later declared a mine field by Task Force South-West due to several additional IEDs being located. SPC King`s dedication and professionalism went above and beyond, at great risk to his own life in an effort to save the life of a fellow Soldier. SPC Clayton J. King`s actions, dedication to duty, and outstanding professionalism was a remarkable asset to TF Stalwart, and directly impacted the speed of transport and medical care of the casualty.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 015-107, Headquarters, United States Forces-Afghanistan, 15 January 2019
LEDINGTON, ANTHONY C.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment
Date of Action: 3 March 2008
Citation:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism, is awarded to Specialist Anthony C. Ledington for courage and valor during operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom 07-09. While assigned to Headquarters Company Mortar Platoon and attached to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, SPC Ledington risked his own life to save the lives of two Iraqi civilians. His personal courage, dedication to duty, selfless service, and medical knowledge are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, Headquarters Company, the Fighting Eagles Battalion, the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment, and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
On 3 March 2008 Headquarters Platoon and Mortar Platoon responded to a report of a possible Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED). Based on Intel and pattern analysis, they suspected this VBIED could be part of a larger complex attack. The patrol identified the vehicle and initiated the outer cordon and started a search for secondary devices. The enemy realized that the VBIED had been identified and detonated it on a civilian vehicle causing two casualties. One civilian vehicle was on fire and another damaged nearby. Two casualties lay on the ground riddled with shrapnel and severely burned. After seeing the devastating results, SPC Ledington asked to dismount to attempt to save any civilian casualties. Along with a 2 person security element, SPC Ledington ran to the scene with his aid bag with complete disregard for his own personal safety. He made an on the go assessment and triage and began treating the two wounded civilians. While treating the first casualty, a secondary IED was detonated approximately 50 meters away. SPC Ledington was not deterred in his mission. A third and fourth IED were detonated and SPC Ledington shielded his patient with his body from the shrapnel and debris that rained down around the position. SPC Ledington`s actions saved the lives of two severely wounded civilians who were unable to defend themselves. SPC Ledington never lost his focus while exposed to the enemy, giving medical care during sustained enemy contact of over 40 minutes.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 187-015, Headquarters, 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment, 5 July 2008
MAGERS, ADAM J.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
1138 Sapper Company, 107th Engineer BN, 35th Engineer Brigade, 4th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 April 2008
Citation: Narrative to Accompany the Award Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for heroism is awarded to Specialist Adam J. Magers, 1138 Sapper Company, 107th Engineer BN, 35th Engineer Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. For exceptionally valorous achievement while assigned as a combat medic during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Specialist Magers’ outstanding dedication to excellence and professionalism contributed immeasurably to the unit’s overall success. His actions reflect distinct credit on him, the Multinational Division-Baghdad, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 191-019, HQ, MND-B, 9 July 2008
MARTINEZ, JOHN M.
Private First Class, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
A Company, 4th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 4th BCT, 4th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 15 April 2012
Synopsis: Citation Needed:
By direction of the Secretary of the Army under the provisions of paragraph 3-18, and paragraph 6-5, AR 600-8-22, the Army Commendation Medal with `V` Device for heroism is REPORTEDLY awarded to Private First Class John M. Martinez, United States Army, for exceptionally valorous achievement as a Combat medic in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. On 15 April 2012, Private First Class Martinez` actions and courage while rendering aid to wounded coalition forces under enemy fire during the attack on FOB Finley-Shields. His decisiveness and quick actions were in keeping with the finest Army tradition of never leaving a fallen comrade. His dedication to duty and commitment to excellence reflect great credit upon himself, Alpha Company, 4th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Combined Joint Task Force-1, and the United States Army
General Orders: Permanent Order number unknown, Military Times Hall of Valor
