Airman wins bronze star for valor in combat

An airman from the 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron at Mountain Home AFB was awarded the Bronze Star medal for valor Tuesday on base for his actions in Iraq after his convoy was attacked by insurgents.

His citation notes that Ingerick "distinguished himself by heroism as Gun Ruck Command and Combat Life Saver" while on detached duty with the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, "while engaged in ground operations near Balad Air Base in Iraq" on Dec. 5, 2005.

"While traveling south on main supply route Tampa, his Convoy Logistics Patrol was attacked by small arms fire from anti-Iraqi forces on both sides of the road.

"He immediately took charge of the situation and directed his driver to maneuver out to the enemy contact side where his turrent gunner was able to engage with a .50-caliber machine gun.

"Airman Ingerick's decisive action allowed a clear line of sight for this gunner, who returned fire with deadly accuracy, stopping the attack and killing six anti-Iraqi forces. This manuever also gave protective cover for the remaining convoy vehicles to exit the kill zone and move onward to a safe forward rally point.

"Additionally," the citation went on, "at the rally point Airman Ingerick courageously dismounted his armored vehicle to provide immediate medical attention to a gunshot victim. He extracted the wounded driver from his burning vehicle and began applying direct pressure to entry and exit gunshot wounds.

"His application of decisive tactices and combat life safer skills resulted in the safe onward movement of the convoy and disrupted a bold enemy plot to interdict coalition supply routes.

"Airman Ingerick's selfless acts during hostile actions ensured the safety and security of 39 coalition personnel. By his heroic actions and unselfish dedication to duty, Airman Ingerick has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force."

The Bronze Star for valor is the nation's fourth highest award for bravery, heroism or meritorious achievement that does not involve aircraft in combat. His parents were expected to be in attendance, as are 18 other 366th LRS Airmen who've performed convoy security missions in Iraq.

Many Air Force members, including the "Gunfighters" from Mountain Home AFB, are increasingly performing dangerous combat support roles traditionally associated with the Army or Marine Corps.