Posted on 11/21/2005 4:01:31 PM PST by SandRat
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Nov. 21, 2005) -- Every Marine and sailor takes pride in knowing they impact the lives of Americans, whether its fighting for freedom or just providing a presence of reassurance and safety in our country.
Ten Marines with the 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion received Purple Heart medals, and 10 Marines and one sailor received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medals during a ceremony here, Nov 10.
Through various acts of bravery and self-sacrifice these trackers risked their lives to defend the country. There’s inherent patriotism in the manner in which they live their lives, and for servicemen, it’s an honor to fight for our friends, family and country.
They’ve been involved in everything while transporting Marines such as firefights, ambushes and Improvised Explosive Device attacks while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
“This battalion was prepared for anything insurgents threw our way,” said Lt. Col. Michael L. Kuhn, the commanding officer, AAB.
These trackers credit their success to the battalion’s training and the family atmosphere of the battalion.
“This battalion is a close-knit community,” Kuhn said. “We’re a family and we take care of each other.”
Assault Amphibian Battalion is currently training to remain alert and ready for their next assignment.
The Marines that received the Purple Heart medals are:
Staff Sgt. Richard H. Schmitt Jr.
Staff Sgt. Brian L. Sears
Sgt. Steven D. Phillips
Cpl. Richard W. Stevens Jr.
Cpl. Dean R. Begaye
Cpl. Edwin W. Cadena
Cpl. Joseph A. Burnette
Lance Cpl. Joseph P. Bednarik
Lance Cpl. Joshua M. Grubbs
Lance Cpl. Dominic L. Blakely
The Marines and sailors that received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medals are:
Gunnery Sgt. Donald P. Vick II
Staff Sgt. Richard H. Schmitt Jr.
Staff Sgt. Brian S. Rokicki
Staff Sgt. John W. Lefebvre
Sgt. Jason A. Triola
Sgt. Jason T. Shira
Sgt. Michael P. Moynagh Jr.
Cpl. Mitchell C. Beeler
Cpl. Daniel J. Brauner
Lance Cpl. Travis L. Crow
P.O. Joshua G. Chambers
MARINES HONORED
God bless our troops. Never turn your back on those willing to risk their lives to protect your freedom.
They’ve been involved in everything while transporting Marines such as firefights, ambushes and Improvised Explosive Device attacks while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Thanks for the ping!
BTTT
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