* Interesting Notes:
Sergeant Jeremy E. O’Mealey is a double recipient of the ARCOM with “V” device
Sergeant Jose Pantoja sustained a gunshot wound to the face while carrying a second wounded Soldier to relative safety. Although encouraged to take cover to tend to his wounds, he continued to treat a total of 12 casualties before seeking medical care for himself.
* Denotes Posthumous Award
O’MEALEY, JEREMY E. (First Award)
Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 3rd Battalion, 7th Field Artillery, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 20 March 2007
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 Sergeant Jeremy E. O’Mealey for valorous achievement while providing care under fire for Soldiers of the 3rd Infrastructure Brigade. SGT O’Mealey’s heroic actions during combat operations in Iraq contributed to the overwhelming success of the command’s mission. His bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect great credit upon himself, the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Narrative to accompany the award:
Sergeant Jeremy Omealey, United States Army, distinguished himself by exceptional valorous conduct in the performance of his duties as a Non-commissioned Officer in the United States Army in charge of life-saving medical care for Bravo Battery 3-7 Field Artillery, Forward Operation Base Warrion Iraq on 23 march 2007 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
While on a mission, traveling in the Kirkuk Province, Sergeant Jeremy O’Mealey was called to render aid to two Strategic Infrastructure Soldiers who were wounded when their vehicles came under assault from small arms fire and RPG attacks. Without regard for his own safety, Sergeant O’Mealey immediately began to assess and treat the wounded. While providing medical aid to the wounded Soldiers, Sergeant O’Mealey and his patrol team started taking small arms fire. While facing imminent danger, he continued to treat and stabilize all casualties so they could be safely evacuated to Forward Operation Base McHenry. Sergeant O’Mealey’s unflappable courage, valorous effort and exceptional tactical and technical skills played an integral part in saving the lives of two Soldiers. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect distinct credit upon himself, this command, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 096-01, Headquarters, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, 6 April 2007
O’MEALEY, JEREMY E. (Second Award)
Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 3rd Battalion, 7th Field Artillery, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 12 May 2009
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 Sergeant Jeremy E. O’Mealey for exceptionally valorous conduct in the face of the enemy of the United States as a Combat Medic in 3rd Battalion, 7th Field Artillery. SGT O’Mealey placed himself in harm’s way to prevent further injury and stabilized the Battalion Commander when the Battalion Commander was struck by a single rifle round on 12 May 2009. SGT O’Mealey’s actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, the 25th Infantry Division, Multinational Division-North, and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
On 12 May 2009, SGT O’Mealey and his unit were on the northwest side of Tikrit, Iraq where his Battalion Commander exited his vehicle to speak to an Imam. After approximately 15 minutes the Battalion Commander was struck by a small arms round. SGT O’Mealey, with total disregard for his own personal safety, ran to the commander, and moved him to his vehicle to a place of relative safety. In the meantime, the unit’s gun trucks began laying down suppressive fire to the area they thought the gunshot had come from. Once in the truck, SGT O’Mealey removed his kit to find the location of the gunshot wound. When he found it, he began to perform steps to control the bleeding and recommended to the Platoon Sergeant that they should proceed immediately to FOB Speicher. On the way, SGT O’Mealey continued to treat the commander until they could get him to the Combat Support Hospital for further treatment.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 146-007, Headquarters, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, 26 May 2009
PANTOJA, JOSE
Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Company B, 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division.
Date of Action: 10 June 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 Sergeant Jose Pantoja for Valorous achievement as a medic while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On 10 June 2006, Sergeant Pantoja was assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team as Platoon medic, when the unit received direct fire from rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire. The fire was well organized and shortly after the attack started, the platoon had sustained injuries. SGT Pantoja, with total disregard for his own safety, left his position and ran to two injured troopers and began to administer aid. This drew the attention of the attackers and the fire concentrated on SGT Pantoja’s position. As he was carrying the second Soldier to cover, SGT Pantoja received a gunshot wound to the head. SGT Pantoja was urged to take cover and treat his own wound, but he continued to run from Soldier to Soldier administering aid. In total, he treated 12 Soldiers. SGT Pantoja helped carry the seriously wounded to a MEDEVAC helicopter and was urged to board as well. He refused and continued his mission. When the firefight ended, SGT Pantoja accompanied the wounded back to their base. It was then he finally sought medical attention for himself. SGT Pantoja’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of military heroism and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number unknown, Headquarters, 10th Mountain Division, Date unknown. Information from DVIDS, Combined Joint Task Force 82 PAO, Task Force Fury, 11 April 2007
PEDERSEN, DEAN C.
Lieutenant Colonel, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 2D Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28-29 January 2007
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 Lieutenant Colonel Dean C. Pedersen for valorous achievement during the Battle of Najaf while serving as the Battalion Surgeon. LTC Pedersen’s bravery supporting the Patriots forward in the fight and medical expertise treating hundreds of wounded combatants and civilians, saved lives. His bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflects credit upon him, the Patriots, the Arrowhead Stryker Brigade, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 167-001, Headquarters, 3D Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2D Infantry Division, 16 June 2007
PLYLER, SHAWN E.
Staff Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment
Date of Action: 15 November 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 Staff Sergeant Shawn E. Plyler, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment for Exceptionally Meritorious duty on 15 November 2003. Staff Sergeant Plyler’s courage, relentless drive and medical skills were essential in treating the injuries of Soldiers that were injured when their UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopter crashed while on a mission over Mosoul, Iraq. Staff Sergeant Plyler’s actions reflect great credit upon him, the “Strike” Brigade, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number (unreadable), HQ, (unreadable), 502nd Infantry Regiment, Ft. Campbell, KY, Date unknown.
POOLE, DEVON
Staff Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Unit Unknown
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 REPORTEDLY awarded to Staff Sergeant Devon Poole, for valorous achievement as a medic. SSG Poole performed heroic efforts to save the life of his squad leader, who was shot in the abdomen by enemy fire. Using his own body as a shield, Staff Sergeant Poole was able to protect him from further injury, as well as later administer lifesaving aid and prevent him from going into shock. Staff Sergeant Poole reacted immediately providing emergency medical treatment at the risk of his own life. SSG Poole’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. Recognized by General Raymond Odierno, Commander, U.S. Joint Forces Command at the Armed Services YMCA. ASYMCA Press Release March 31, 2011
POWELL-DUNFORD, NICOLE
Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
Joint Task Force Wings, Combined/Joint Task Force-76
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 Captain Nicole Powell-Dunford for Heroism in action as the Task Force Diamondhead Flight Surgeon. CPT Powell-Dunford volunteered to be inserted into the scene of a vehicle ambush site that was not yet secured without regard for her own personal safety. Her medical treatment efforts on the ground stabilized a litter urgent patient, helping save his life. Her actions reflect great credit upon herself, Task Force Diamondhead, Joint Task Force Wings, and the United States Army
Narrative Synopsis:
While conducting Flight Surgeon duties onboard a UH-60 Command and Control Aircraft supporting a Naval Special Forces Mission. CPT Powell-Dunford volunteered her efforts to provide on scene medical support in case any medical emergency occurred while conducting the mission. The Command and Control Aircraft was diverted to an area with Troops in Contact. En route to the site, it was reported that there were four friendly casualties to include one litter urgent patient. Upon arrival at the scene, CPT Powell-Dunford volunteered her services to the ground commander and requested to be inserted at the area of attack to provide medical aid to the litter urgent patient. Without regard for her own safety, CPT Powell-Dunford was inserted onto the scene of the ambush site that had not yet been secured. CPT Powell-Dunford rendered immediate lifesaving aid to the wounded, assisting three walking wounded and stabilizing the gunshot wound of the litter urgent patient for transport back to a Level Two care facility. CPT Powell-Dunford remained on the ground and supported the wounded even though Anti Coalition Militia forces were suspected to be within 1000 meters of the Casualty Collection Point. CPT Powell-Dunford maintained patient care until the arrival of the Medical Evacuation Helicopter, ensuring the survival of the litter urgent casualty.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 264-08, Headquarters, Joint Task Force Wings, Combined/Joint Task Force-76, 21 September 2004.
ROOKER, STEVEN A.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Combined Task Force Fury, Regional Command-south
Date of Action: 8 March 2012
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 REPORTEDLY awarded to Specialist Steven A. Rooker for valorous achievement as a combat medic in support of Operation Enduring Freedom XII. While attached to Second Platoon, Specialist Rooker’s unwavering courage aggressiveness, and dedication while under enemy fire saved the life of a fellow paratrooper. His performance in combat reflects great credit upon himself, Combined Task force Fury, Regional Command-South, and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
On March 8, 2012, Specialist Rooker’s platoon was conducting a combined reconnaissance patrol in the village north of Babaghday. The village was a known enemy stronghold, protecting a suspected supply and command and control site. The IED threat in the area was extremely high. Specialist Rooker’s maneuver element came under heavy effective enemy fire. The attack was initiated with small arms and PKM fire which came from five different locations. One of the platoon’s Soldiers maneuvered through a ditch to engage the enemy and stepped on an anti-personnel mine. The explosion immediately incapacitated the Soldier, amputating one leg and shredding the other. Specialist Rooker, without any regard to his own safety, left his covered position and began moving to the location of the blast. He sprinted over 100 meters under heavy enemy fire to reach the wounded Soldier. Instantly, he dropped his aid bag and began to assess and stabilize the casualty. His instinctive actions allowed the casualty to receive immediate on site care, saving his life and preventing any further injury. He continued to administer aid until the Air Medical Evacuation Crew arrived on the scene. Specialist Rooker displayed valor and courage providing medical aid to a member in Third squad.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 124-008, Headquarters, Regional Command-South, date unknown, Military Times Hall of Valor.
RUSHING, ZACHARI
Staff Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
1st Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team
Date of Action: unknown date, 2008
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 Staff Sergeant Zachari Rushing for valorous achievement as a medic while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following a catastrophic improvised explosive device strike in Charbaran District, the senior line medic’s leadership and decision making, while at the risk of his own safety, were instrumental in saving the lives of three of his fellow Soldiers. SSG Rushing’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. http://www.army.mil/article/32096, Fort Benning, The Bayonet, December 18, 2009.
SAINT-JACQUES, JUSTIN
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Company B, 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Date of Action: 2 October 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 Specialist Justin Saint-Jacques for valorous achievement during combat operations on 2 October 2006 when his combat patrol was ambushed. On that date, SPC Saint-Jacques’ up-armored Humvee was struck by an anti-tank missile. All passengers, including Saint-Jacques were wounded, two seriously. A second missile slammed into the passenger side of the vehicle, rupturing SPC Saint-Jacques’ eardrum. In spite of his own wounds, and the threat of additional strikes, he immediately started treating the wounded inside his vehicle, but the cramped space hindered his progress. Disregarding the danger, he dismounted the vehicle and pulled the wounded out through the driver’s side door as the passenger side door was jammed due to the explosions. SPC Saint-Jacques proceeded to administer aid to all the wounded. His actions reflect great credit upon him, the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Orders unknown. Headquarters, 82nd Airborne Division, 22 October 2006. 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs Office.
SOUSA, NICHOLAS A.
Private First Class, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division.
Date of Action: 11 August 2006
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 Private First Class Nicholas A. Sousa for valor in action while serving as a medic. PFC Sousa displayed outstanding bravery by putting himself in danger by moving from his position to render aid and provide medical attention to his fellow comrades. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, Task Force Chosin, Combined Task Force Spartan, and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
For exceptionally valorous achievement as a Medic in 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division during Operation Enduring Freedom VII in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan. PFC Sousa volunteered to leave his current duty position at the Camp Blessing Aid Station to join 2nd Platoon on their dismounted movement from the Bella outpost to the Ranch House. On 11 August 2006, PFC Sousa displayed bravery and outstanding personal courage while rendering medical aid in support of the platoon that was ambushed while conducting the dismounted patrol. PFC Sousa assessed and treated the patrol leader’s wound while the patrol leader was engaging enemy positions. PFC Sousa displayed tremendous bravery and exemplified the Warrior Ethos. PFC Sousa took charge of the triage of three wounded Soldiers and ensured that dignity and respect was rendered to three KIA Soldiers for evacuation. PFC Sousa’s supervision of the air evacuation of the casualties and remains of the KIA Soldiers were exemplary and conducted expeditiously. During the entire duration of the enemy contact, PFC Sousa displayed incredible courage under fire and impressive medical expertise. His awareness of the dire situation propelled him to act without explicit direction. PFC Sousa’s bravery, presence of mind, and medical knowledge resulted in saving Soldier’s lives and the evacuation of all casualties.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 032-21, Headquarters, 3rd IBCT, Task Force Spartans, 15 March 2007
STEDNICK, PETER J.
Sergeant, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Division
Date of Action: 8 June 2012
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 Sergeant Peter J. Stednick for exceptionally valorous service while serving as a senior medic during Operation Enduring Freedom. During an enemy indirect fire attack, SGT Stednick disregarded his own injury to rescue a fellow Soldier. He continued to treat the Soldier until he was medically evacuated. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon him, 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, and the United States Army.
Narrative Synopsis:
On 8 June 2012, while performing his duties as the Bravo Company Senior Medic, SGT Stednick displayed outstanding valor and courage during an enemy indirect fire attack on CCOP Baraki Barak. SGT Stednick was located in the CCOP dining facility when an 82mm recoilless rifle round struck near the building, riddling it with shrapnel, wounding many, including SGT Stednick. Per established SOP, the Soldiers ran to the IDF bunkers. SGT Stednick, suffering from his own injury, ran to the impact area with zero regard for his own safety. SGT Stednick discovered a fellow Soldier lying on the ground bleeding from a shrapnel wound to the head. He picked up the wounded Soldier and carried him on his shoulder out of the impact area to the aid station. He then provided emergency first aid and stopped the bleeding from the head wound. He produced a 10 line MEDEVAC request, and with disregard for his own personal safety, ran from the aid station to the TOC and sent up the MEDEVAC request. He then ensured the casualty was stable and ready for evacuation and proceeded to escort the casualty to the helicopter landing zone. Once the casualty had been evacuated, SGT Stednick, disoriented and vomiting, collapsed from his own injury. SGT Stednick’s valorous actions and ability to perform his duties, despite his injury, and the best efforts of the enemy, lives up to the Warrior Ethos of never leaving a fallen comrade. His valor and courage not only saved his fellow Soldier from further harm, but also reinforced the confidence that every Soldier on CCOP Baraki Barak has in the medical team.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 175-04, Headquarters 1st Armored Division, 23 June 2012
VEREECKE, MICHAEL D.
Specialist, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
Ironhawk Troop, Task Force Thunder, 3d Cavalry Regiment
Date of Action: 5 August 2014
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 D. Vereecke for Valorous service while assigned as a platoon medic in support of Operation Enduring Freedom XIV on 05 August 2014. SPC Vereecke’s strength, commitment, and calmness under fire greatly contributed to the saving of a fellow Soldier’s life on “Razorback Ridge” by facilitating a quick and secure egress. His performance reflects great credit upon himself, Task Force Thunder, Task Force Rifles, and the United States Army.
Narrative to accompany the award:
SPC Vereecke demonstrated outstanding service to the Soldiers of 2nd Platoon, Ironhawk Troop, 3/3 Calvary Regiment. His selfless service as the platoon medic enabled him to rush to the assistance of injured Soldiers without hesitation or regard for his own safety. SPC Vereeke’s actions in providing immediate medical attention were paramount to stabilizing a critically wounded fellow Soldier and triaging six others following an anti-personnel IED attack. SPC Vereecke displayed outstanding leadership, having taken complete control of the CASEVAC which saved SPC ________’s life. He quickly coordinated the efforts of his fellow Soldiers, which formed the Aid and Litter Team who evacuated their wounded comrade from atop the north side of Hill 2322, known as “Razorback Ridge.” SPC Vereecke provided medical care en route and stayed with the casualty throughout the entire ordeal, only stopping when he was properly relieved by medical personnel at AP Airborne.
General Orders: Permanent Order number 312-11, Headquarters, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, Task Force Rifles, 23 August 2014
WINTERBOTTOM, JONATHAN D.
Corporal, Army Medical Department, U.S. Army
3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized)
Date of Action: unknown date, 2005
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 Jonathan D. Winterbottom, for valorous achievement while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom during combat operations in 2005. Corporal Winterbottom, without regard for his own personal safety, rushed to the aid of wounded Soldiers in the midst of a battle. He immediately performed lifesaving measures which resulted in saved lives. His valor reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Permanent Order number unknown. Reported by 3rd Infantry Division PAO.
