M249 SAW Gunner
For meritorious achievement, SPC Zephirin executed his duties as M249 SAW gunner with exceptional tenacity and adaptability during the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) exercises. Despite arriving shortly before the commencement of JRTC, his rapid mastery of the required skills demonstrated commendable Soldiering ability and a steadfast commitment to the mission. His proficiency and quick adaptability were pivotal in ensuring 2nd Platoon's successful completion of all lanes and scenarios, significantly enhancing the unit's operational effectiveness. SPC Zephirin's exemplary performance and unwavering dedication reflect great credit upon himself, 2nd Platoon, and the United States Army.
240 Machine Gunner
SPC Young demonstrated exceptional proficiency as a 240 Machine Gunner in the Scout Platoon's Dismount Section, successfully conducting multiple Squad and Platoon Live Fire Exercises. His participation in three CTC rotations at JMRC in Hohenfels, along with operations Griffin Shock 23 and Saber Strike 24, showcased his unwavering dedication. SPC Young's contributions significantly enhanced the platoon's combat readiness and operational effectiveness, setting a high standard for his peers.
SPC Young's commitment to excellence was evident as he tried out for the 3rd Squadron Ruck team in 2023, with the goal of participating in The Nijmegen Ruck in the Netherlands. Over a span of four months, he completed rigorous training, including the twenty-mile Edelweiss Ruck. SPC Young's outstanding performance and dedication set him apart from his peers, enhancing the team's operational readiness and morale. His efforts exemplify the highest standards of Army professionalism and resilience.
By introducing rugby to the Scout Platoon, SPC Young played a pivotal role in strengthening unit cohesion. This team-building activity not only improved physical fitness but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among the soldiers. SPC Young's foresight and dedication have markedly enhanced the overall effectiveness of the Regiment.
Scout
For GALLANTRY in the face of incompetence, SPC Hamilton conducted himself with the utmost courage and confidence when he came upon the unsecured door leading to COP Woodend. Disregarding his own personal safety and without the support of his team, SPC Hamilton entered, cleared, and provided overwatch throughout the entirety of the COP. Upon discovery of unsecured firearms in a closet, SPC Hamilton made sure all weapons were accounted for and began his tactical regrouping outside. When exiting COP Woodend, he made sure to secure the open door, confident that the COP was vacant of Enemy Actors. In keeping with the Army's high standards and traditions, SPC Hamilton demonstrated superior wit and attention to detail. The UNITED STATES ARMY is proud to award SPC Hamilton with this ACM, with full knowledge it will be downgraded to a Letter Of Achievement.
Sniper
During Joint Readiness Training Center Rotation July 2022, SPC Miranda fulfilled dual roles as both a Sniper team member and medic. SPC Miranda acted as both a stand-in real-world medic and a scenario medic due to the lack of a dedicated platoon medic for the entirety of the training rotation. SPC Miranda treated numerous real life injuries and ailments, allowing his platoon to successfully complete their mission. SPC Miranda distinguished himself from his peers during a simulated mass-cal event in which he led the treatment and evacuation of 15 simulated combat casualties. Additionally, SPC Miranda contributed to the successful completion of several scout missions by using his superior knowledge of reconnaissance tasks to both teach newer platoon members and lead them while on mission.
Sniper Section Leader
Staff Sergeant Andrews exhibited outstanding leadership and expertise as the Sniper Section Leader in the Scout Platoon Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment from September 2022 to August 2024. During this period, as a Vanguard, SSG Andrews developed the Sniper Section into a highly effective and well prepared unit. SSG Andrews served the Vanguard Battalion with distinction through countless field training exercises, a rotation to the National Training Center, and a deployment to Europe in support of Operation European Assure, Deter, and Reinforce.
Stryker Driver
For outstanding achievement as a Stryker Driver supporting 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment from 05 February 2020 to 11 February 2020 during classified training. Specialist Michael A. Gonzalez went above and beyond the confines of his job description as a Stryker Driver and crew member when two-thirds of his mortar crew dismounted to aid a fellow platoon on their maneuver lane, leaving only himself and the Section Leader to continue operations. Despite being unassisted, SPC Gonzalez effectively and accurately sent multiple 120mm mortar rounds down range to secure safe mobility of the platoon maneuvering. His constant situational awareness and having the gun system up on relevant data within 15-20 seconds every mission helped ensure the completion of the platoon and troop's mission. The accomplishments of Specialist Gonzalez bring great credit upon himself, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment and the United States Army.
Rifleman
PFC Collins executed his duties as M249 SAW gunner with tenacity and adaptability during JRTC with little preparation. Arriving shortly before JRTC, his rapid mastery of the skills needed speak highly of his Soldiering ability and contributed greatly to 2nd Platoon's successful completion of all lanes and scenarios.
PFC Collins took the initiative to learn, maintain and repair all of 2nd Platoon's radios while serving as the Platoon Leader's RTO. His experience with communications systems ensured the platoon was in continuous contact with the Troop TOC. His hard work and dedication was a key factor in the success of over 30 missions.
PFC Collins served as an Infantry Rifleman and conducted five live fire training certifications. His willingness to execute combat commands as a rifleman under stressful combat conditions throughout the duration of the current deployment contributed to the team's overall success.
PFC Collins ensured the accurate placement of markings in accordance with Platoon, Squad and team SOP after initialy clearing an Objective during MOUT Live Fire Certification. Due to his steadfast adherence to SOP, he guaranteed the team's overall success.
Rifleman
SPC Andre completed two full rotations of a training cycle to include Vanguard Focus, Marne Focus, one NTC rotation and individual training during his assignment in the Cotton Baylor battalion.
SPC Andre consistently proved his Soldier abilities by scoring expert on the M4, M240 and M249.
SPC Andre served as a rifleman in OIF 5 through 6 and Operation New Dawn.
SPC Andre exceeded his responsibilities by volunteering to shoulder additional duties; supported 1st Platoon as the armorer and ensured there were no deficiencies in mission essential equipment.
Rifleman
PFC Dyer, while assigned to the Flight Line security at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Africa effectively prevented anyone without proper identification or license to gain entry to the Flight Line. This ensured a safer and secure working area for crews to conduct their air operations in support of CJTF-HOA. During his tenure on the Flight Line, SPC Dyer's exemplary dedication to duty and technical expertise contributed significantly to E Company's mission success.
Squad Member
SGT Meyers went above and beyond his duty by performing 2/211th GSAB QRF operations. With little time to prepare, he executed the mission with precision and the highest level of motivation. All mission requirements were met or exceeded by SGT Myers with no prior experience in HRF operations.
SQUAD LEADER
During this period, the professional skill, leadership, and ceaseless efforts of Staff Sergeant Shields contributed to the effectiveness and success of Alpha Company, 4-6 Infantry Regiment. Staff Sergeant Shields was involved in and supported a variety of training events throughout this rotation including NET NEFF, Flying Badger, Gunnery, Warrior Strike and EIB. Throughout each event, Staff Sergeant Shields never hesitated to lead from the front, which resulted in setting the standard for UGF Operations and establishing best practices that many units will adopt during their rotations. The accomplishments of Staff Sergeant Shields bring great credit upon himself, the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division and the United States Army.
FOR EXCEPTIONALLY MERITORIOUS SERVICE AS AN BATTALION BATTLE NCO AND SQUAD LEADER WHILE PARTICIPATING IN OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM IN AFGHANISTAN. DURING THIS PERIOD, STAFF SERGEANT MCDONALD DISPLAYED THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF PROFESSIONALISM, SOUND JUDGMENT, AND TECHNICAL AND TACTICAL COMPETENCE DURING EXTREMELY SENSITIVE OPERATIONS. HIS EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE COMBINED WITH HIS UNTIRING PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE WERE MAJOR FACTORS IN HIS TEAM'S ABILITY TO ACCOMPLISH THEIR MISSION. THROUGH HIS DISTINCTIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS, STAFF SERGEANT MCDONALD REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON HIMSELF, A CO 2-12 INFANTRY AND THE UNITED STATES ARMY.
M249 SAW Gunner
SPC Soldier deployed to Balikatan 2008 where his fireteam, based on their excellent performance in CQB, was selected to train an entire ROP platoon on basic MOUT and CQB operations in support of OEF Philippines.
SPC Soldier maintained the entry control points and patrolled Fort Polk and its more than 20 square miles of terrain.
SPC Soldier, being responsible for the safety and well being of over 10,000 residents, maintained constant state of alertless and assisted in the force protection measures of Fort Polk.
SPC Soldier participated in rotations to PTA, NTC, and completed a 15 month deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he consistently displayed skills and maturity above his pay grade. His relentless efforts have inspired his peers and leaders alike.
As the senior gunner in his Squad, SPC Soldier was selected from among his peers to train A battery on crew-served Weapons PMI on all platforms. His clear and comprehensive instruction, which emphasized regular preventive maintenance, was directly responsible for the entire battery accomplishing 100% qualification during Truck Gunnery.
SPC Soldier scored 848 during Crew Gunnery during MOB, placing his crew among the top three of the platoon.
TOC RTO
PFC David led with distinction as the Battle RTO for 237th Brigade Support Battalion, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), forward deployed to Regional Command North (RC-N), Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM (OEF). He provided sound counsel to senior Tactical Operation Center personnel on all matters concerning battlefield reporting, night surveillance operations, and equipment. His efforts significantly impacted successful deployment and battalion redeployment operations on a daily basis.
He assisted the Battle NCO in updating DCO and providing situational awareness of current weather updates, LOGSTATS, PERSTAT, medical evacuation status, and ongoing operations. PFC David continuously charted all CCIRs and RFIs for both real world and EXEVAL events in one chart, giving the Battle Captain and Battle NCO a one-source chart which streamlined the decision-making process.
PFC David successfully completed the Raven Operator Course prior to deploying which directly enhanced the Battalion's training efforts at the National Training Center. At NTC, PFC David launched several Raven flights which improved the battalion's situational awareness and readiness posture of the Forward Operating Base. PFC David's expertise greatly enhanced S2 abilities to provide up-to-date intelligence reporting during A STB Ops.
PFC David successfully tracked over 25 long range Tactical Convoy Operations moving throughout RC-North area of operations, covering in excess of 3,000 miles. He directly controlled several air surveillance assets in support of convoy security and route clearance operations through coordination of external UAV assets.
Training Manager
SPC Young was directly responsible for maintaining the battalion's training schedules for the brigade commander. Through his attention to detail and dedication to the mission of the training section, he ensured 100% qualification.
His ability to take charge of various tasks such as brigade calendar organization, brigade range calendar organization and brigade training meetings improved section readiness by 50%.
SPC Young set the example for his peers to follow and led the way to success. His work ethic, foresight and his willingness to stay after 1700 to meet deadlines for the next day showed his potential for increased leadership positions.
He focused his undivided attention on helping Soldiers improve themselves for the unit and the Army by promoting civilian education.
Assistant Operations Sergeant
o task oriented and detail minded; completes assignments to the fullest while staying focused to make sound and thoughtful decisions
Field Sanitation NCO
CPL Jones' outstanding dedication and leadership led to the unprecedented COP Baraki Barak rating of 93%, the highest of all outlying COPs under TF Vanguard. His actions directly contributed to the health and welfare of the Soldiers assigned to the COP. His actions reflected credit upon himself, 4IBCT, 3ID, and the United States Army.
OPERATIONS SGT
FOR EXCEPTIONALLY MERITORIOUS ACHIEVEMENT AND EXEMPLARY SERVICE AS THE OPERATIONS SERGEANT IN HHC, 2ND BRIGADE WHILE DEPLOYED IN SUPPORT OF THE JOINT READINESS TRAINING CENTER. SGT BARROGA'S EXCEPTIONAL DEDICATION TO MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENT, TACTICAL AND TECHNICAL COMPETENCE, AND UNPARALLELED PROFESSIONALISM CONTRIBUTED IMMEASURABLY TO THE SUCCESS OF THE "DAGGER" BRIGADE. SGT BARROGA'S EFFORTS ARE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF MILITARY SERVICE AND REFLECT GREAT CREDIT UPON HIM, THE DAGGER BRIGADE, AND THE UNITED STATES ARMY.
Platoon Sergeant
As acting platoon sergeant for 3rd Platoon during Annual Training 2012 from 10 June 2012 through 29 June 2012, SGT Shields distinguished himself by operating 2 levels higher than his assigned position and rank. His leadership and technical and tactical proficiency ensured the successful training of 18 Soldiers assigned to his platoon in 32 Army Warrior Tasks. The actions of Sergeant Shields are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon him and the 18th Cav and the U.S. Army.
Squad Leader
SSG Zipplies wrote the 603D ASB company B's Standard Operating Procedures for combat logistic patrols; reduced schedule errors, risk, and duplication by 50%.
SSG Zipplies trained 24 combat section Soldiers on convoy procedures and convoy security with effective results; enabled completion of 29 combat logistic patrols without incident.
During a route clearance mission, SSG Zipplies' responded immediately and cordoned off the platoon sergeant vehicle after a RKG-3 attack which allowed EOD to safely assess the area and prevented injury to Soldiers.
Filled in for personnel unable to go on missions due to illness, schools, or injury; performed as Gunner and Truck Commander on numerous occasions.
During his tenure with the 603D ASB, SSG Zipplies distinguished himself by exceptional meritorious service, demonstrating to all that he is a professional Soldier, dedicated to excellence in his field of expertise. He not only executed his assigned tasks with competence and in a timely manner, he anticipated taskings and took the initiative to evaluate alternative solutions and complete tasks beforehand. His untiring efforts and Can-Do attitude are a testament to his achievements as an outstanding Soldier of the U.S. Army.
o handled all radio communications while QRF operations outside the wire to insure that all the trucks and B Troops staff had situational awareness
o worked long selfless hours to insure that the operations center always had an NCO on duty
o prepared detailed orientation classes, increased safety of new arrivals
o found two caches, eliminated 55 rounds of UXO from enemy use, patrolled over 100km of hostile territory
o volunteered for, conducted and participated in an overweight PT program that resulted in our platoon losing a combined weight of 50lbs
o moved foward of even the ADVON to identify and secure unit equipment sent by Strat-Air
o moved all TOC equipment back from Balad on his own to CAB TOC in Tallil
o immediately on arrival at Tallil, broke out equipment and ensured it was programmed and ready for plug and play operations at the battalion TOC still over 100 miles away
o served as the standard bearer for his squad when it came to living the army values
o identified and fixed problems with truck preparation that cut our mission prep time by 50%
o researched and implemented a plan to outfit the company's vehicles with long range antennae
o wrote the company's standard operating procedures for combat logistic patrols
o his attention to detail and commitment to keeping his vehicle systems mission capable maintained a superior operational readiness rate despite being issued the most heavily used equipment on two continents
