A couple of weeks ago, my brother was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his work in Iraq last year. This morning, my mom sent me a copy of his citation. It reads:

For meritorious achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as the Operations Officer of… in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Major XXXX’s tireless efforts in the detailed planning of joint and combined Counter-Insurgency operations including multiple company-size clearance operations, targeted raids against known and suspected Insurgents, and the partnering and integration of Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police Forces resulted in the detention of more than 250 suspected Insurgents of which more than 75 percent were forwarded to higher headquarters for further processing. His direct involvement with Iraqi Police Forces within the … Area of Operations led to astonishing growth and development of more than 1,250 trained Iraqi Police Officers. Major XXXX’s concept of partnership in the Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police Forces faciliatated an unprecendented union between Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces. His expertise and complete immersion in all facets of the Counter-Insurgency fight, from security operations to the extension of Battalion control across the villages throughout the Area of Operation and from and in-depth level of local leader engagement to civic and economic development, significantly contributed to distinguishing the Battalion as the “textbook” example to be followed in the Iraqi conflict. Major XXXX’s total effectiveness, forceful leadership, and loyal devotion 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.

Upon reading it, I was faced with both huge swells of pride in my big brother and total deflation of any smugness I had over the kickass PowerPoint presentation I put together yesterday.

Regardless, since it’s Memorial Day, my mind is on the guys and gals who have given their lives in Iraq, Afghanistan, and all the battles that came before. I’m grateful for their sacrifice, and that of their families. Bless them all.

And, because I’m just hormonal enough…God Bless America!

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