Photo By Sgt. Daniel Valle | Brig. Gen. Niel E. Nelson pins the Bronze Star medal onto Capt. Christopher M....... read more read more
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CAMP HANSEN — Captains Aaron F. Fisher and Christopher M. Kaprielian were awarded Bronze Star medals during a ceremony at the 9th Engineer Support Battalion physical training field at Camp Hansen Sept. 5.
Fisher served as the company commander of Engineer Support Company, 9th ESB, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Kaprielian served as the operations officer of 9th ESB during its recent deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
They were awarded the medals for meritorious service during their seven-month deployment in support of OEF.
Fisher organized his company to accomplish all assigned missions and to succeed in a highly challenging environment. His company played a key role in the completion of more than 45 different engineering projects including more than 60 kilometers of new route construction, survivability improvements, patrol base development and enhancement, combat patrol security and general engineering efforts at outposts across Helmand province.
“It’s a big testament to all the work the Marines did through his leadership and guidance,” said Chief Warrant Officer Joshua R. Ashworth, the motor transport maintenance officer for the battalion. “I would definitely deploy with him again.”
Kaprielian planned and provided oversight for the construction and engineering projects performed by the battalion. Kaprielian managed the battalion’s assets to ensure the engineers were able to meet the commander’s expectations and achieve mission success.
“They are outstanding leaders,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. James L. Stanley, the operations chief for Support Company, 9th ESB. “I think it is well deserved, and I would deploy with them in a heartbeat without thinking twice.”
Fisher led several important projects, but commanded two critical and especially challenging missions. His company constructed a land bridge, known as Route Red Wadi Crossing, to ensure the main supply route remained open following the winter thaw. Additionally, his company built Route Tiffany providing a resupply access route to a remote forward operating base.
“Route Red was highly used by the locals after its construction for local commerce,” said Fisher. “It helped improve the quality of life by making it easier for them to get from one place to another.”
“The Marines pulled together and they did an amazing job,” said Fisher. “It’s not something I did; it is something the company did.”
Although the two Marine leaders felt a sense of pride in receiving Bronze Stars, they both agreed that it was because of their Marines’ efforts that their units accomplished so much.
“I owe this award to my Marines,” said Fisher. “I received this award as a result of their efforts throughout our deployment. I wear this award for them.”
“It is all about the Marines,” said Kaprielian. “The hard work and dedication it took to accomplish our mission while we were deployed is the reason for this award. This is their award, not mine.”
| Date Taken: | 09.05.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 09.13.2012 02:48 |
| Story ID: | 94634 |
| Location: | CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 166 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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