Logistics warriors awarded Bronze Stars

Published Nov. 14, 2006
By Staff Sgt. Beth Orlen
314th Airlift Wing Strategic Information Flight

LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Two members of the 314th Logistics Readiness Squadron received Bronze Star medals for their efforts during a recent deployment to Iraq.
Senior Master Sgt. Stanley Joseph and Senior Airman John Leese stood at attention in front of friends, family and coworkers while their citations were read before receiving the medals from Brig. Gen. Kip Self.
While deployed to Iraq, Sergeant Joseph went above and beyond the call of duty to accomplish the mission, according to his deployed unit supervisors.
"(Sergeant) Joseph's leadership and motivational skills have been outstanding throughout this deployment," said Army Brig. Gen. Charles Barr, 143rd Transportation Command commander. "He led the first convoy into Iraq to set an example after another convoy had been attacked."
It was this forward thinking that Sergeant Joseph ensured the successful accomplishment of the Air Force's first rotation of medium truck detachments culminating in 351 successful convoys while amassing 1.1 million miles within Iraq, according to the citation.
Airman Leese also received high accolades from his deployed supervisors.
"(He is) the epitome of Airmanship!" said Army Capt. Victor Anaya, 494th Aerospace Expeditionary Forces Truck Company commander.
He showed courage in the face of danger, and was decisive and sure, he said.
After a truck in Airman Leese's convoy was struck by an improvised explosive device, he responded and rendered combat lifesaving actions to one member and self aid buddy care to other members.
"(He) set the standard in this battalion in executing duties as a gunner and combat lifesaver," said Army Lt. Col. Michael Holmes, 44th Corps Support Battalion commander. "One of the best I've served with!"
Airman Leese distinguished himself ... as a vehicle operator during the time of hostilities in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (His) unwavering commitment to mission accomplishment and demonstration of technical expertise were above and beyond all expectations and proved vital to successful combat operations in Iraq, according to the citation.
The Bronze Star medal, authorized by Executive Order No. 9419 Feb. 4, 1944, is awarded a person in any branch of the military service who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States on or after Dec. 7, 1941, shall have distinguished himself by heroic or meritorious achievement or service, not involving participation in aerial flight, in connection with military operations against an armed enemy.