On October 5 Lima Company at the Iraqi Police Station in Karmah came under a complex attack from multiple directions. Marines and Iraqi police returned fire. Due to low light conditions, illumination and close air support (CAS) was called in. After twenty minutes the enemy fled. One hour later, a CAS mission from HMLA-369 reported receiving fire from two hostile vehicles to the east of Karmah. HMLA conducted a CAS mission and destroyed the two vehicles.
Contents
Awards
Bronze Star
James Lanham
For meritorious achievement in connection with combat operations involving conflict with an opposing force while serving as Company First Sergeant, Company L, 3D Battalion, 3D Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) from 1 August 2007 to 20 February 2008 in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08 and FY 08. First Sergeant Lanham’s unparalleled leadership, mentorship and tactical proficiency distinguished him during seven months of demanding counterinsurgency and reconstruction operations in Al-Karmah, Iraq. First Sergeant Lanham’s commanding presence and strict enforcement of standards cultivated professional attitudes and a sense of duty among the Marines and Sailors during hundreds of combat patrols and at the Company;s three Forward Operating Bases. During a complex attack on the Iraqi Police Station on 5 October 2007, First Sergeant Lanham took control of the Company’s Combat Operations Center, directed the employment of Quick Reaction Forces, requested Close Air Support assets, and provided the commander with real-time updates, affording him the freedom to move to the point of attack. First Sergeant Lanham’s natural ability to teach and mentor the Company’s junior officers, Staff Non-Commissioned Officers, and junior Marines and Sailors alike was inspirational to all and was absolutely critical to the Company’s success. Furthermore, First Sergeant Lanham’s relentless efforts across all counterinsurgency lines of operation had a profound impact in neutralizing the insurgency. First Sergeant Lanham’s total effectiveness, forceful leadership, and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.