Contents
Awards
Heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as combined Anti-Armor Team Platoon Commander, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, Combined Joint Task Force-76 from 10 November 2004 to 15 June 2005. On 24 December 2004, while leading a ground assault convoy into the Korangal Valley, an enemy force of 30 fighters ambushed his five-vehicle convoy. Remaining calm, First Lieutenant Frangakis initiated the convoy’s immediate actions and directed the employment of over 100 marines in a counter attack against the enemy. First Lieutenant Frangakis exposed himself to heavy fire, moving between the vehicles assessing their status and giving direction to the subordinate element commanders. Upon establishing fire superiority and communications with higher headquarters, he expertly controlled and deconflicted close air support with ground support agencies, allowing the marines to close with the enemy positions. First Lieutenant Frangakis’ courageous actions, initiative, and complete dedication to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.