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Distinguished Service Cross Recipients
Joseph L. Lollino
Rank and Organization: Corporal, United States Army
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Joseph L. Lollino, United States Army, for gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a medic with 3d Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment during combat operations against an armed enemy in Paklika Province, Afghanistan on 20 June 2008. While on patrol, Corporal Lollino's convoy came under direct fire from Anti-Afghan Forces set up in a near ambush. During the barrage of enemy fire, the third vehicle in the convoy was disabled by a rocket-propelled grenade and was pushed by another vehicle out of the kill zone. Corporal Lollino drove his own vehicle through the kill zone in order to establish a casualty collection point at the location of the disabled vehicle and immediately began to coordinate first line care of the casualties while engaging known enemy locations with his personal weapon from an exposed position. Soon, enemy forces greatly intensified their fire on Corporal Lollino's position. Ignoring the danger, he continued to administer treatment to all four casualties, used his body to shield one of the injured from incoming rocket-propelled grenades, and continued working even after sustaining shrapnel wounds himself. Corporal Lollino then loaded the casualties onto an alternate vehicle and continued to provide aid while the convoy fought through the three kilometer kill zone. Corporal Lollino's selfless leadership, courageous actions, and extraordinary devotion to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, and the United States Army.
Mark E. Mitchell
Rank and Organization: Major, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 3d Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), during the period of 25 to 28 November 2001, distinguished himself while engaged in combat operations during Operation Enduring Freedom. As the Ground Force Commander of a rescue operation during the Battle of Qala-I-Jang Fortress, Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan, Major Mitchell ensured the freedom of one American and the posthumous repatriation of another. His unparalleled courage under fire, decisive leadership and personal sacrifice were directly responsible for the success of the rescue operation and were further instrumental in ensuring the city of Mazar-e-Sharif did not fall back in the hands of the Taliban. His personal example has added yet another laurel to the proud military history of this Nation and serves as the standard for all others to emulate. Major Mitchell's gallant deed was truly above and beyond the call of duty and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), the United States Army, and the United States of America.
Brendan O'Connor
Rank and Organization: Master Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in combat as the Senior Medical Sergeant for Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 765 (ODA-765), Company A, 2d Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, in Panjawal District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. On 24 June 2006, during Operation Kaiki, Sergeant O'Connor led a quick-reaction force to reinforce a surrounded patrol and rescue two wounded comrades. He maneuvered his force through Taliban positions and crawled alone and unprotected, under enemy machinegun fire to reach the wounded soldiers. He provided medical care while exposed to heavy volumes of Taliban fire, then carried one of the wounded 150 meters across open ground to an area of temporary cover. He climbed over a wall three times, in plain view of the enemy, to assist the wounded soldiers in seeking cover while bullets pounded the structure around them. Sergeant O'Connor assumed duties as the detachment operations sergeant and led the consolidation of three friendly elements, each surrounded, isolated, and receiving fire from all directions. His remarkable actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, Special Operations Command Central, the United States Army and the Department of Defense.
Erich R. Phillips
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant Erich R. Phillips, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as Mortar Platoon Sergeant with Company C, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team, in action at Ranch House in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan, on 22 August 2007. Staff Sergeant Phillips' gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: On 22 August 2007, at 0455L, the Ranch House Outpost at Aranas, Afghanistan, was attacked from all sides by a company-sized insurgent force, simultaneously engaging every post in the perimeter by multiple RPGs and small arms fire. Staff Sergeant Phillips was serving as the Mortar Platoon Sergeant with Company C, 2d Battalion, 503d Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team. On that morning he woke up to the sound of intense small arms fire and RPG explosions. When he moved outside of his quarters he came under effective small arms fire and saw Afghan National Army (ANA) and Afghan Security Guard (ASG) forces fleeing from their post, which had swiftly been overrun by the insurgents. Staff Sergeant Phillips expertly positioned five soldiers, Private First Class White, Specialist Baldwin, Specialist Chavez, Sergeant Dirkinitis, and Special Schilling to defend the TOC, Aid Station, Mortar Pit and ASP, and led the way by returning fire on a quickly advancing enemy force from the vicinity of the ANA and ASG post while under intense RPG and small arms fire. He moved quickly to the TOC and reported directly to his Platoon Leader, First Lieutenant Ferrara, who told him that there was no communication with Post 3 and Post 4. Staff Sergeant Phillips returned to the mortar firing point to employ the 60-mm. mortars while staying in contact with Post 1, whose element continued to engage the overwhelming enemy assault with hand grenades and direct fire. With the insurgents within 15 meters of his position Staff Sergeant Phillips directed fires and hand grenades to suppress the enemy and protect the Platoon Leader, First Lieutenant Ferrara, who was talking to the company from his Platoon Command Post after the TOC had suffered several direct hits with RPGs rendering the antennas inoperable. Staff Sergeant Phillips' actions were essential in securing First Lieutenant Ferrara's position allowing the platoon leader to control indirect fire and CAS to thwart the enemy attack. When he learned that there were casualties at Post 2, Staff Sergeant Phillips took Sergeant Dirkinitis, the Platoon Medic, and assaulted upwards, 30 meters towards Post 2. Recognizing that Post 2 risked being isolated from the rest of the U.S. element he directed his team to give covering fire as he moved up the hill. As they moved Staff Sergeant Phillips and Sergeant Dirkinitis were pinned down by insurgents firing from the high ground near Post 3 and from behind the Class 1 shed 15 meters away. Soldiers at Post 2 told Staff Sergeant Phillips that there were multiple enemy personnel behind the Class 1 shed which was about 10 meters behind him. While under intense enemy fire he ran to a position from which he could throw multiple hand grenades to deter an enemy advance and continued to fire upon enemy positions. His decision to move toward Post 2 spread out the friendly line and was instrumental in preventing the enemy from overrunning the mortar pit and the Platoon Command Post as well as Post 2. As Staff Sergeant Phillips and Sergeant Dirkinitis continued to fight, Sergeant Dirkinitis was struck in the shoulder by a bullet. Staff Sergeant Phillips pulled him to cover while firing on the enemy. He recognized that he had to move to another position to save the wounded medic. He told Post 2 to provide covering fire while he dragged Sergeant Dirkinitis 15 meters back down the hill to a defilade position so he could be treated. Staff Sergeant Phillips then moved back to the mortar pit and directed Specialist Chavez to treat the casualty. At this point, First Lieutenant Ferrara had called in A-10s to strafe the enemy occupied ASG and ANA posts. As the insurgents' fire became sporadic, Staff Sergeant Phillips assembled a team to clear the Ranch House perimeter and recover Private First Class Deloria who had been isolated at Post 3. He lead the team up the hill and pulled Private First Class Deloria from beneath the rubble of the shattered Post 3. Staff Sergeant Phillips continued to organize the MEDEVAC of the casualties from Post 3 (Private First Class Deloria) and Post 2 (Sergeant Gonzalez, Sergeant Relph, Specialist Bell, and Private First Class Langevin) and moved them down the hill to the LZ to be evacuated. Through his quick thinking and total disregard for his own safety, Staff Sergeant Phillips prevented the Ranch House Outpost from being overrun by an enemy force three times larger and with superior fire power. His quick reaction in employing all available soldiers protected the Platoon CP from being overrun allowing external assets to be employed to defeat the enemy. He quickly assaulted toward Post 2 spreading out the friendly lines and directed lethal blows against the enemy halting their advance 10 meters short of the U.S. line. Absent this assault the enemy would have been able to maneuver in between the U.S. forces, isolating Post 2 from the mortar pit and breaking up the U.S. line of fire. Finally, he assembled an ad hoc force to clear the perimeter and recover the severely wounded Private First Class Deloria, who had been cut off for over 2 hours. His actions at Ranch House yielded invaluable intelligence with the death of MVT Hazrat Omar including enemy video tapes of attack plans, pictures of insurgents, and payroll documents utilized by ACM commanders. During the fierce three-hour battle at the Ranch House eleven U.S. soldiers, half of the U.S. garrison, were wounded. One ANA and one ASG Soldier were killed and one ASG Soldier was wounded. Eight insurgents were killed and a dozen more were wounded.
James M. Takes
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant James M. Takes, United States Army, for acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Team Leader in Company C, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade during combat operations against an armed enemy in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan on 9 November 2007. On that day, Staff Sergeant Takes and his team were traversing a narrow path surrounded by mountainous, rocky terrain when they were ambushed by enemy forces stationed on elevated positions. Pinned against a steep mountain face, Staff Sergeant Takes and his men were totally exposed to enemy fire. Staff Sergeant Takes immediately began to provide suppressive fire for his men, allowing them to slide down the mountain in search of better cover. After being hit in the arm with small arms fire, Staff Sergeant Takes began to move down the mountain in order to link up with the others. As he did so, he noticed a fellow Soldier, Specialist Albert, lying wounded in an exposed position. Without hesitation, Staff Sergeant Takes sprinted towards his injured comrade, completely exposing himself to enemy fire. As he began to drag Specialist Albert back up the slope, he was shot in the other arm. Unable to move Specialist Albert further, Staff Sergeant Takes knelt and began to render aid to his wounded comrade. Noticing that Specialist Albert had lost his helmet, Staff Sergeant Takes gave him his own. He then moved to the Casualty Collection Point to assist his squad leader. He continued to provide aid and pull security until helicopters arrived. Staff Sergeant Takes was the last Soldier to be lifted out. Staff Sergeant Takes' selfless leadership, courageous actions, and extraordinary devotion to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Company C, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade, and the United States Army.
Jack E. White
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant Jack E. White, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action. Staff Sergeant White distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Squad Leader with Company A, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment during combat operations against an armed enemy in Khost Province, Afghanistan, on 29 June 2008. That night, Staff Sergeant White's nineteen-man observation post was assaulted by a 105-man Anti-Afghanistan Force employing rocket-propelled grenades and coordinated small arms fire. As the attack commenced, Staff Sergeant White was awoken by a rocket-propelled grenade impacting less than 20 meters from his position. He immediately low-crawled out of the sleeping area in order to lead the observation post's defense. Maneuvering through heavy enemy fire, Staff Sergeant White quickly adjusted his men to repel the brunt of the attacking force. With no regard for his own safety, he worked his way from Soldier to Soldier in order to interlock all fires and mark targets, all while engaging and being engaged by the enemy. He ordered multiple danger-close fire missions through his forward observer and incorporated lethal mortar and artillery fire on the enemy elements. His leadership and fearless tactical maneuvering allowed his men to interdict all attacking forces attempting to overrun their position, ultimately leading the enemy to break contact and retreat. Staff Sergeant White's selfless leadership, courageous actions, and extraordinary devotion to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, and the United States Army.
Charles Wyckoff
Rank and Organization: Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action while serving with the 3d Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 82d Airborne Division. On 6 June 2007, Sergeant Wyckoff distinguished himself as a Rifle Team Leader in combat operations during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. While engaged in close combat against determined enemy forces, Sergeant Wyckoff left his covered position without hesitation, to force the other members of his team to take cover. Sergeant Wyckoff revealed his position and fatally engaged two insurgents to save the lives of his platoon. Sergeant Wyckoff's bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 82d Airborne Division and the United States Army.
Awarded posthumously.
Travis W. Atkins
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, 2d Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, on 1 June 2007. Staff Sergeant Atkins distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry at the cost of his life in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. While conducting route security in the town of Abu Sarnak, Iraq, Staff Sergeant Atkins apprehended and began to search a group of suspected insurgents. However, one insurgent resisted and engaged Staff Sergeant Atkins in hand-to-hand combat. As Staff Sergeant Atkins attempted to subdue the man, he realized the insurgent was attempting to trigger a suicide vest which he wore under his clothing. Despite Staff Sergeant Atkins' efforts, the insurgent finally succeeded in reaching his vest. Staff Sergeant Atkins selflessly tackled the suicide bomber, pinning him to the ground and shielding his Soldiers from the imminent explosion. In this critical and selfless act of valor in which he was mortally wounded, Staff Sergeant Atkins saved the lives of three other Soldiers who were with him and gallantly gave his life for his country. Staff Sergeant Atkins' undaunted courage, warrior spirit and steadfast devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, the 2d Brigade Combat Team, and the United States Army.
Awarded posthumously.
Daniel A. Briggs
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action on 26 April 2004, during combat operations against an armed Iraqi Insurgent force while supporting United States Marine Corps operations in Fallujah, Iraq. Staff Sergeant Briggs repeatedly subjected himself to intense and unrelenting enemy fire in order to provide critical medical attention to severely injured Marines and organized defensive operations. He set the highest example of personal bravery through his demonstrated valor and calmness under fire. Staff Sergeant Briggs' valiant actions prevented enemy insurgent forces from over-running the United States Force's position and were directly responsible for prevention of additional United States military casualties or Prisoners of War by the enemy. His actions under fire as a combat medic were performed with marked distinction and bravery. Staff Sergeant Briggs' distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this command, and the United States Army.
James H. Coffman Jr.
Rank and Organization: Colonel, United States Army
For exceptionally valorous conduct while assigned as the Senior Advisor to the 1st Iraqi Special Police Commando Brigade during a lengthy battle on 14 November 2004 in Mosul, Iraq, during which the unit likely would have been overrun were it not for the courageous leadership of Colonel Coffman and the one Commando officer not wounded. At approximately 1030 hours on 14 November, Colonel Coffman moved with a Commando Quick Reaction Force (QRF) to reinforce a Commando platoon under attack at the Four West Police Station in Mosul. As the QRF neared the besieged platoon, it came under intense rocket-propelled grenade, mortar, machinegun, and AK-47 fire by a large insurgent force. Over the next four hours, the enemy repeatedly assaulted the Commandos' position, at times culminating their attacks twenty meters from Colonel Coffman's location. With all but one of the commando officers killed or seriously wounded by the initial enemy fire, Colonel Coffman exhibited truly inspirational leadership, rallying the Commandos and organizing a hasty defense while attempting to radio higher headquarters for reinforcements. Under heavy fire, he moved from Commando to Commando, looking each in the eye and using hand and arm signals to demonstrate what he wanted done. At one point, an enemy round shattered Colonel Coffman's shooting hand and rendered his M4 rifle inoperable. After bandaging his hand, Colonel Coffman picked up AK-47s from Commando casualties and fired them with his other hand until each ran out of ammunition. With the assistance of the one remaining Commando officer, Colonel Coffman redistributed ammunition among the uninjured commandos until he had only loose ammunition that he loaded by placing magazines between his legs and using his one working hand. Throughout this period, he repeatedly demonstrated exceptional courage and an extraordinary example to the commandos as they repulsed attack after attack by the enemy. Four hours after the start of the battle, a second Commando element arrived and Colonel Coffman guided them to his position. Even after their arrival, he continued to direct the fight, refusing to be evacuated until the enemy was defeated. Shortly thereafter, attack helicopters also arrived, followed closely by a Stryker Brigade QRF, and Colonel Coffman used Iraqi radios to direct air strikes and to provide vital information on the location of enemy and friendly forces. After supervising the evacuation of several dozen wounded Commandos, Colonel Coffman led a squad-sized element to the Four West Iraqi Police Station, fifty meters ahead of the Strykers, to make contact with the Commandos still in the station. After they linked up, the Strykers moved forward, and attack helicopters engaged the buildings occupied by the enemy, following which Colonel Coffman returned to his original position to ensure that all of the Iraqi casualties had been evacuated. Only then did he consent to be evacuated for surgery for his own serious wound. During the fierce four-hour battle, twelve Commandos were killed and 42 were wounded. Twenty-five enemy were killed and many dozens more were wounded.
David F. Cooper
Rank and Organization: Chief Warrant Officer Five, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action on 27 November 2006, while serving with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), during combat operations against an armed enemy during aerial flight as an AH-6 Flight Lead Pilot for the Joint Task Force in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Without regard for his personal safety, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Cooper continued to provide effective fires for the Joint Task Force ground forces despite the presence of effective enemy fire. His actions destroyed several enemy positions, which prevented the ground forces from sustaining heavy casualties and allowed them to hold their position. His superb actions in flight, especially at one point as the lone air support aircraft under terrific enemy fire, contributed greatly to the mission success. Chief Warrant Officer 5 Cooper's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Joint Task Force and the United States Army.
Christopher Hamel Corriveau
Rank and Organization: Sergeant, United States Army
For exceptional valor and intrepid actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 82d Airborne Division, while repelling an overwhelming and heavily armed enemy force on 26 August 2007 during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. Specialist Corriveau's exceptional courage, tenacity and tactical prowess under intense enemy fire and close combat contributed to the defeat of a concerted enemy effort to overrun his sniper position. Surrounded and attacked by an enemy force ten times superior to that of his own, Specialist Corriveau and his fellow Paratroopers valiantly repelled the enemy attack with withering small arms fire and grenades. His four-man sniper team courageously fought off an overwhelming enemy force for control of the rooftop for over ten minutes in close combat, killing or wounding at least ten enemies in the process. His distinguished valor, unquestionable devotion to duty and loyalty to his fellow Paratroopers in the most dire of circumstances are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect great credit upon himself, Task Force Two Panther, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Task Force Lightning, and the United States Army.
Jarion Halbisengibbs
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action on 10 September 2007 in combat operations in support of Operations IRAQI FREEDOM. As the Detachment weapon sergeant, Operational Detachment Alpha 083 (ODA-083), 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs displayed extraordinary courage under fire while combat-advising a combined assault element of the Iraqi National Police during Operation Chromium, a raid to capture Al Qaeda in Iraq's Minister of Defense for Ad Din Province in Samarra. Through his fearless actions, Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs directly saved the lives of two of his fellow Soldiers, personally killed six of the eleven enemies Killed in Action, enabled the rescue of one hostage, and ensured the elimination of a terrorist responsible for kidnappings and murders throughout the Samarra region. His unparalleled courage under fire, decisive leadership and personal sacrifice were directly responsible for the operations success and ensured the province of Ad Din did not fall into insurgent hands. Staff Sergeant Jarion Halbisengibbs' outstanding performance of duty is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: For exceptional gallantry under intense enemy fire as the Detachment Weapons Sergeant of Special Forces Operational Detachment - Alpha 083, Advanced Operating Base 080, on 10 September 2007. Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs, while combat advising a combined assault element of Iraqi National Police during Operation CHROMIUM, an intelligence driven raid to capture a High Value Islamic State of Iraq terrorist in the Samarra area, acted with the utmost bravery and valor through exemplary violence of action to eliminate a heavily armed and entrenched enemy stronghold. Upon air infiltration into an unplanned landing zone, Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs immediately redirected the disoriented Iraqi assault force towards the objective in total brownout conditions. His quick thinking and ability to refocus the confused assault element ensured that the enemy could not effectively reposition itself and engage the support element maneuvering to his flank. Upon clearing the first structure, the assault element immediately came under enemy machine gun fire causing a dangerous pause in the momentum of the Iraqi National Police. Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs instantly identified the immediate threat and killed an enemy defending from inside the doorway of the targeted building. He then proceeded to regain the momentum by personally leading the assault force into the targeted building while under constant enemy gunfire. Initiating the assault with a single fragmentary grenade, instantly killing an additional three terrorists entrenched inside the building, he instinctively cleared the entryway, entered the building and engaged and instantly killed an enemy firing at the assault element from inside the building at close range. Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs continued to clear the structure in complete darkness as his night vision goggles and personal radio were all destroyed by enemy gunfire at point blank range. Stumbling over a dead enemy, he was shot in the thumb and propelled to the ground by the blast of an enemy grenade which propelled two other Operational Detachment - Alpha (ODA) assaulters out of the building. Alone, he relentlessly continued to engage the concealed enemy and in a moment of intense close quarters battle killed one additional terrorist inside the now chaotic structure. Once the targeted building was cleared, Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs exited the building and immediately passed a verbal status report to his ODA indicating that he was injured but that he was able to continue the fight. He immediately came under automatic weapons fire at close range from a defending enemy position in an adjacent structure not yet cleared by the stalled National Police assault force. As Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs reacted to the threat, he was shot in the abdomen, but was still able to kill the enemy as he fell to the ground seriously wounded. Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs' heroic performance rekindled the fighting spirit in the stalled Iraqi force, who carried on the assault and cleared the remainder of the objective. Staff Sergeant Halbisengibbs was responsible for single - handedly killing six enemy out of a total of eleven on this objective and eliminating a High Value Terrorist who led operations throughout Salah ad Din Province. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of valorous military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.
Donald R. Hollenbaugh
Rank and Organization: Master Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action on 26 April 2004, during combat operations against an armed Iraqi insurgent force while supporting United States Marine Corps operations in Fallujah, Iraq. Master Sergeant Hollenbaugh demonstrated the highest degree of courage and excellent leadership through his distinguished performance as Team Leader while engaged in Urban Combat Operations. His heroic actions throughout one of the most intensive firefights of the Operation Iraqi Freedom campaign were directly responsible for preventing enemy insurgent forces from overrunning the United States Force. Master Sergeant Hollenbaugh personally eliminated multiple enemy-controlled weapon positions, essential in turning the tide of the enemy's ground-force assault upon a United States Marine Corps Platoon. His actions under fire as a Leader were performed with marked distinction and bravery. Master Sergeant Hollenbaugh's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this Command, and the United States Army.
Walter Bryan Jackson
Rank and Organization: Second Lieutenant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action while serving as a Company Fire Support Officer with Company A, Task Force 1-36 (1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment), Multi-National Corps-Iraq, on 27 September 2006, while engaged in combat operations against an armed insurgent force in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. While recovering a disabled vehicle, Second Lieutenant Jackson's unit came under heavy enemy machine gun fire. Despite the danger, he applied first aid to a severely wounded comrade and was then hit in his thigh with a bullet. Upon regaining consciousness after being shot, Second Lieutenant Jackson alternated between returning fire and administering first aid to the Soldier. Second Lieutenant Jackson was hit again with machine gun fire as he helped carry his wounded comrade to safety, but he never faltered in his aid. Although his own severe wounds required immediate evacuation and surgical care, Second Lieutenant Jackson refused medical assistance until his wounded comrade could be treated. Second Lieutenant Jackson's selfless courage under extreme enemy fire were essential to saving another Soldier's life and are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, Company A, Task Force 1-36 Infantry, and the United States Army.
Eric Alan Moser
Rank and Organization: Sergeant, United States Army
For exceptional valor and intrepid actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company C, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 82d Airborne Division, while repelling an overwhelming and heavily armed enemy force on 26 August 2007, during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. Sergeant Moser's exceptional courage, tenacity and tactical prowess under intense enemy fire and close combat contributed to the defeat of a concerted enemy effort to overrun his sniper position. Surrounded and attacked by an enemy force ten times superior to that of his own, Sergeant Moser and his fellow Paratroopers valiantly repelled the enemy attack with withering small arms fire and grenades. His four-man sniper team courageously fought off an overwhelming enemy force for control of the rooftop for over ten minutes in close combat, killing or wounding at least ten enemies in the process. His distinguished valor, unquestionable devotion to duty and loyalty to his fellow Paratroopers in the most dire of circumstances are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect great credit upon himself, Task Force Two Panther, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Task Force Lightning, and the United States Army.
Timothy Nein
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader with the 617th Military Police Company, 503d Military Police Battalion (Airborne), 18th Military Police Brigade, Multi-National Corps-Iraq, on 20 March 2005, while engaged in combat operations during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. While patrolling a supply route, Staff Sergeant Nein's squad observed a convoy of semi-tractor trailers that was being ambushed by approximately 50 anti-Iraqi insurgents with automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenades. He responded by dismounting his squad and leading them in a counterattack to flank the enemy trench line. Still under heavy fire, Staff Sergeant Nein displayed great courage by directing an assault on an enemy trench line, firing his weapon and throwing hand grenades to suppress the enemy. His squad killed several insurgents, captured large quantities of weapons and ammunition, and saved the lives of numerous convoy members. Staff Sergeant Nein's bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 503d Military Police Battalion (Airborne), the 18th Military Police Brigade, and the United States Army.
Erik Oropeza
Rank and Organization: Specialist, United States Army
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Specialist Erik Oropeza, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism at the risk of his life while serving with the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 2d Infantry Division, in action on 22 May 2007, in support of Operation IRAQI Freedom, in Iraq. Specialist Oropeza demonstrated the highest degree of physical courage coupled with uncommon fortitude while engaged in combat operations against a fanatical enemy. His valorous actions following a deliberate ambush were directly responsible for preventing his vehicle and crew from being overrun by a superior enemy force. His own carbine destroyed, Specialist Oropeza defended his severely wounded crewmembers with the nearest available weapon and defeated a five-man enemy ground assault force maneuvering against him. Specialist Oropeza's extraordinary heroism and selflessness at the risk of his own life are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Stephen C. Sanford
Rank and Organization: Private First Class, United States Army
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, 172d Stryker Brigade Combat Team, on 19 November 2005, during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Private Sanford displayed extraordinary courage during the evacuation of casualties from a home in Mosul, Iraq, while under intense enemy fire. Although shot through the leg during his squad's initial assault attempt, he accompanied his squad during their second assault. Once inside the house, he provided a heavy volume of suppressive fire while the casualties were evacuated. He continued to engage the enemy while escorting the wounded Soldiers from the house. He returned to the house a second time to provide vital covering fire and security for the final withdrawal of the casualties. When the last Soldier leaving the house was shot in the neck, Private Sanford, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved to the Soldier and began performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. While attempting to revive the other Soldier, he was shot twice more in the back. Protecting the fallen Soldier, Private Sanford returned fire and killed an insurgent while receiving two more potentially fatal gunshot wounds. He continued to return devastating fire on the enemy while helping his wounded comrade until he was incapacitated by his own loss of blood. Private Sanford's gallant deed was truly above and beyond the call of duty and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry, the United States Army, and the United States of America.
Christopher Bernard Waiters
Rank and Organization: Staff Sergeant, United States Army
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant Christopher Bernard Waiters, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 2d Infantry Division, Multi-National Division-North, on 5 April 2007. Specialist Waiters distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. During a clearance mission, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle was struck by an Improvised Explosive Device and began to burn with its occupants inside. Specialist Waiters, the company's senior medic, quickly parked his Medical Evaluation Stryker in a security position and engaged two armed enemy personnel. He then dismounted alone from his vehicle and ran 80 meters through fierce small arms fire towards the flaming Bradley. Specialist Waiters then pulled out the driver and the vehicle commander, treated both, and safeguarded the casualties back to his Stryker for further treatment. At this point, Specialist Waiters learned that another Soldier was trapped inside the Bradley. Without hesitation, he sprinted back and climbed into the troop compartment. While inside, the Bradley's 25-mm. ammunition began exploding, forcing his exit. Again, he re-entered the vehicle and found a deceased American Soldier. He sprinted back to his Stryker to secure a body bag. Upon his return, another medic had taken charge of the scene, allowing Specialist Waiters to evacuate the two casualties in his Stryker. Specialist Waiters' personal courage, uncommon valor and selfless service directly contributed to the safety and evacuation of two wounded and the recovery of one fallen Soldier. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, the 20th Infantry Regiment, Multi-National Division-North, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Specialist Christopher B. Waiters, United States Army, distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct in the performance of outstanding service to the United States as a Senior Medic, Alpha Company, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, Baqubah, Iraq, on 5 April 2007 during clearance operation in Old Baqubah. On the morning of 5 April 2007, Alpha Company, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry responded to a Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV) that was struck by a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED). The BFV, which was attached to Attack Company for a clearance mission, immediately began to burn with its occupants still inside. Specialist Waiters, the Attack Company senior medic, was traveling in a Medical Evacuation Stryker (MEV) and responded to the distressed Bradley Crew. Immediately upon arrival at the scene, the MEV immediately began to take small arms fire (SAF) from multiple directions. Specialist Waiters quickly placed his vehicle in a security position on the perimeter and hastily engaged two armed enemy personnel as they attempted to flee south from his location. Without hesitation, Specialist Waiters dismounted alone from his vehicle with his aid bag and ran approximately 80 meters through intense enemy small arms fire toward the BFV which at this time was burning heavily and on the verge of becoming fully engulfed in flames. Specialist Waiters speedily jumped onto the Bradley and proceeded to pull out both the Driver and Vehicle Commander who were suffering from severe respiratory complications due to smoke inhalation. Specialist Waiters treated them on the scene for any life threatening injuries or wounds and safeguarded the casualties back to the MEV for further treatment by the MEV NCO. Specialist Waiters quickly learned from his patients that an additional Soldier was trapped in the vehicle. While other Soldiers were attempting to extinguish the fire, Specialist Waiters once again ran back to the BFV and climbed onto it but due to the flames, could not enter the vehicle from the top. He then hastily jumped down from the vehicle and attempted to enter from the back. Specialist Waiters climbed into the troop compartment of the Bradley and attempted to locate the trapped Soldier. While inside, 25-mm. ammunition began cooking off forcing a hasty egress by Specialist Waiters. Yet again, he courageously reentered the vehicle and immediately, Specialist Waiters found the remains of the now deceased American Soldier. Specialist Waiters then climbed from the BFV, ran back to the MEV and secured a body bag. Upon his return to the scene, another medic had taken charge which allowed Specialist Waiters to evacuate the two casualties in his MEV back to FOB Gabe. Specialist Waiters' personal courage, uncommon valor, and selfless service contributed directly to the safety and evacuation of two wounded and the recovery of one fallen Soldier. Specialist Waiters without regard to his personnel safety courageously risked his life under enemy fire to save the lives of his fellow Solders. His actions reflect distinct credit upon him, Attack Company, the Sykes' Regulars, the Arrowhead Stryker Brigade, MND-North, and the United States Army.
Gregory D. Williams, Jr.
Rank and Organization: Sergeant, United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Mortar Platoon, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Corps-Iraq. Sergeant Williams distinguished himself as a Squad Leader on 30 October 2006, while engaged in combat operations against armed insurgents in Baghdad, Iraq, during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. While his platoon was patrolling Baghdad's Huriyah neighborhood, they were ambushed with an array of explosively formed projectiles, small arms fire, and rocket propelled grenades. After being burned, wounded, and knocked temporarily unconscious, Sergeant Williams began to engage the enemy with his M4 carbine. Under heavy enemy fire, he recovered his immobilized platoon leader from the smoldering Stryker vehicle, then returned to the vehicle to man the .50-caliber M2 machinegun despite the threat of exploding ordnance and enemy fire. By establishing fire superiority against the enemy, Sergeant Williams freed other Soldiers who had been pinned, which allowed them to administer first aid to his wounded and burned comrades. Sergeant Williams' valorous actions and bravery, which saved his platoon leader's life and forced the enemy to flee, are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, his command, and the United States Army.
Keith Yoakum
Rank and Organization: Chief Warrant Officer Four,United States Army
For extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, Multi-National Corps-Iraq. Chief Warrant Officer Four Yoakum distinguished himself as a Pilot of an AH-64D Longbow Apache Helicopter on 2 February 2007 while engaged in aerial operations in Baghdad, Iraq, during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. During a reconnaissance mission, Chief Warrant Officer Four Yoakum's aircraft was seriously damaged by heavy enemy machine gun fire, which required him to land immediately. Without regard for his own safety and to protect his comrades, Chief Warrant Officer Four Yoakum chose to remain with his wingman to destroy the enemy. With his main gun inoperable, his only option was to climb in altitude and then dive while firing his Apache's rockets. Ultimately the aircraft succumbed to its battle damage and crashed. Chief Warrant Officer Four Yoakum's distinctive accomplishments and dedication to service to his country are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, the 1st Cavalry Division, the Multi-National Corps-Iraq, and the United States Army.
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