Medical Airman awarded Bronze Star at MHAFB

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Master Sgt. Mark Hurd, 366th Healthcare Operations Squadron medical logistics flight chief, was awarded the Bronze Star, June 24, 2020, here for his achievement as surgeon general superintendent and senior enlisted medical advisor while in support of OPERATION FREEDOM SENTINEL from Jan. 1, 2019 to Nov. 1, 2019, at Forward Operating Base Oqab, Kabul, Afghanistan.

While deployed Hurd advised the Afghan air force, Train Advise Assist Command - Air and the 438th Expeditionary Wing while engaged in military operations involving conflict with opposing foreign forces.

Hurd completed 72 outside-the-wire advising missions while exposed to significant danger including indirect fire, insider threats and direct fire engagements. His exceptional readiness ensured the safety of Airmen and coalition partners.

Hurd also aided in the development of mission-essential training programs like Airborne Casualty Evacuation and medical model simulation classes for over 200 Air Force medics across Afghanistan.

He also initiated the Afghan Combat Lifesaver course for 150 aircrew. This course established new capabilities for a rapid delivery of emergency aid after hostile enemy engagements.

Programs and courses like these enhance the readiness of Airmen to provide care to patients. However, Hurd also found ways to improve the business aspect of operations.

For example, he established an Afghanistan medical waste program that provided an immediate remedy to sanitary concerns for more than 1,114 Afghans on the Kabul Air Base complex.

In addition, he identified and implemented an alternate procurement method that resulted in the acquisition of bio-hazard equipment worth $300,000.

Lastly, Hurd led 98 personnel that supported 1,200 service members. Through his leadership, Hurd’s team sustained two medical clinics, facilitating more than 1,000 appointments and optimizing the health of over 400 joint and coalition partners.

“I am honored to serve beside a senior noncommissioned officer of Master Sgt. Hurd’s caliber,” said Lt. Col. Tracey S. Sapp, 366th HCOS commander. “He is an incredible Airman who serves his country selflessly and honorably. We are so proud of his accomplishment and truly blessed to have him on our team!”