Dyess sergeant receives Bronze Star Medal

  • Published
  • By Amn. Charles Rivezzo
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  A 7th Medical Operations Squadron technical sergeant was presented the Bronze Star Medal here Dec. 17 for his actions while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Tech. Sgt. Michael S. Hamil, 7 MDOS, independent duty medical technician, was presented the award by Col. Thompson, 7th Medical Group commander, during a ceremony at the clinic here. He earned the award for exceptional meritorious achievement as a medical treatment NCO in charge and temporary holding area medic for a joint task force in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"I'm honored for the opportunity I was given, being augmented as part of the Special Operations Joint Task Force in Iraq," said Sergeant Hamil.

The Bronze Star is an individual military decoration that is awarded for bravery, acts of merit or meritorious service.

Sergeant Hamil earned the award in recognition for his accomplishments from February 2010 to August 2010.

During this period, he demonstrated medical acumen as he provided medical support to the task force. He facilitated access to higher levels of medical care for task force personnel.

While deployed, he saved the life of a team member by giving cardiac life support en route to the hospital and also assisted with the medical treatment of several other members who were injured during a mass casualty helicopter crash.

"As an IDMT, there is no greater feeling than being able to save someone's life," said the medical technician. "I am blessed for the experience and the recognition I received from my team members."

The sergeant also orchestrated care for Iraqi local nationals; he was able to identify medical and dental needs in his area. This aided to community relations between troops and the people of Iraq.

"I've worked with many folks throughout my career and Tech. Sgt. Hamil is one of those extraordinary individuals you might only meet once or twice in a lifetime," said Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey C. Johnson, supervisor to Sergeant Hamil.