NCO earns Bronze Star for actions in Iraq Published Dec. 23, 2008 By Tanju Varlikli 425th Air Base Group host nation adviser IZMIR, Turkey (AFNS) -- A 425th Air Base Group Anti-terrorism Force Protection NCO here received the Bronze Star at Izmir's Collocated Club for his efforts during a 12-month deployment to Joint Base Balad, Iraq. Tech. Sgt. James Thompson received the fourth-highest combat award for the U.S. armed forces from Col. Richard Robel, the 425th ABG commander. According to the medal citation, Sergeant Thompson planned and executed more than 497 unit combat patrols during his deployment and facilitated tactical responses to 477 combat incidents, including responses to 12 improvised explosive device attacks. During his deployment, Sergeant Thompson identified force protection shortfalls at seven Iraqi police stations and coordinated more than $2 million worth of improvement contracts which, according to Colonel Robel, greatly enhanced local station defenses and operations. "This award is significant, as it highlights the increased responsibilities our Airmen are taking outside the wire," Colonel Robel said. "The selflessness and dedication to duty Sergeant Thompson displayed downrange, as well as his professional manner in garrison, is a credit to Air Force defenders." "The police transition team mission in Baghdad is by far the most difficult and dangerous mission our security forces men and women are executing today," Sergeant Thompson said. "I owe special thanks to all the security forces men and women I worked with, especially those who gave the ultimate sacrifice." Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page