The aftermath of a mortar impact, Halabsa, Iraq. 19 September 2007.
Kilo Company was engaged by a significant enemy force near Halabsa, Iraq, resulting in no casualties.
Kilo Company was engaged by a significant enemy force near Halabsa, Iraq, resulting in no casualties.
Contents
Awards
Jaisun Hanson
Heroic achievement while serving as Company Commander, Company K, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) from July 2007 to February 2008 in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08 and FY-08. Demonstrating superb leadership and maximizing all available resources, Captain Hanson skillfully led his marines in daily counterinsurgency operations and judiciously united disparate tribes to neutralize Al-Qaeda elements from his area of operations. While conducting clearing operations on 19 September 2007, Captain Hanson’s mounted patrol was attacked with small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades. Without hesitation and under fire, Captain Hanson directed the efforts of his Marines as they successfully repelled the insurgent attack. His courage and inspiring leadership facilitated one of the most significant reductions in insurgent activity in Karmah since the beginning of combat operations and set the conditions for the successful transition of control to Iraqi Security Forces. Captain Hanson’s initiative, perseverance and total dedication to duty reflected credit upon him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and United States Naval Service.
Hector Fernandez
Heroic achievement in the superior performance of his duties while serving as Platoon Sergeant, Company K, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) from August 2007 to February 2008 in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. While conducting combat operations in the Al Anbar Province, Staff Sergeant Fernandez admirably led his platoon in the execution of more than 150 combat patrols and 25 logistic convoys. On 19 September 2007, after being targeted by an enemy coordinated attack, he unhesitatingly directed the fires of his turret gunners toward enemy insurgents, who were attempting to engage the convoy with rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire. His quick and decisive action denied the insurgents the ability to effectively engage the convoy. His exceptional attention to detail and awe-inspiring courage under fire forced the enemy to break contact. Staff Sergeant Fernandez’s initiative, perseverance, and total dedication to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and The United States Naval Service.