Security forces member receives Bronze Star

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Kenya Shiloh
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (AFPN) --  An Airman from the 18th Security Forces Squadron here was awarded the Bronze Star during a ceremony Nov. 15 for actions while on a 365-day deployment to Al Kasik Military Training Base, Iraq.

Capt. Russell Waight, 18th SFS officer in charge of plans and programs, served as adviser at the base defense battalion for the Multi-National Security Transition Command. During his deployment, he authored lesson plans to properly train Iraqi soldiers in the use of force, rules of engagement, communications, guard mount and weapons safety.

"I led a six-person team to help train, mentor, lead and equip hundreds of Iraqi soldiers to take over security duties," Captain Waight said. "We also provided security for local and national elections for the village surrounding the base."

The captain was the key person in preparing 300 Iraqi soldiers to take over perimeter security duties of bases within 30 days of their arrival.

The captain said the team's biggest challenge was overcoming the language barrier and teaching new recruits how to secure their installation and complete missions. However, he said those barriers were soon torn down because of each country's willingness to work together toward a higher goal -- achieving self-sufficiency.

"At first it we were a little wary of each other, but we soon began to build a nice working relationship and forged bonds that are strong to this day," the captain said. "It was hard for us sometimes because some soldiers that were sent out on a mission didn't come back alive."

Captain Waight said he gained a lot of experience working with other services and the Iraqi Army.

"My biggest award was coming home without a physical scratch on my body," Captain Waight said. "Working there for a year was probably the most challenging but rewarding job I'll ever have. If given a chance to go over there again, I'd take it."

The Bronze Star is awarded to service members in all branches of the military for combat heroism or meritorious service during a time of war.

"Captain Waight's impressive accomplishments in Iraq aided this nation in its internal defense and built the foundation for a fledgling democracy to develop," said Lt. Col. Greg Foster, the 18th SFS commander. "He ensured his instruction was meeting that nation's needs by accompanying Iraqi forces on actual missions, whether it be convoy ops or pipeline security."