Aviation leader is awarded Order of St. Michael

Photo By Master Sgt. Thomas Mills | Colonel Dan Ball, commander of 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, places the Silver Order of St. Michael around the neck of Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Stidley, 3rd CAB, June 18, at Baghdad International Airport.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

06.18.2008

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Mills 

3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division

By Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Mills
3rd Combat Aviation Brigade

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – An aviation leader was recognized for his outstanding contribution to Army aviation at Baghdad International Airport, June 18.

Command Sergeant Major Richard Stidley, Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division received the Silver Order of St. Michael from Col. Dan Ball, commander, 3rd CAB, while standing next to an Apache helicopter.

Stidley accepted the award on the 29th anniversary of his enlistment in the Army. During his years of service, Stidley has completed numerous deployments and assignments around the world including more than 43 months overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Stidley addressed Soldiers gathered at the ceremony saying, "On, June 9, I graduated high school, and nine days later, June 18, I enlisted in the Army." He added, "I haven't looked back since."

The Army Aviation Association of America and the U.S. Army Aviation Center established the Order of St. Michael award in 1990 to recognize individuals whose contributions to Army Aviation stand out in the eyes of the recipient's seniors, subordinates and peers.

• Date Taken: 06.18.2008
• Date Posted: 06.20.2008 10:22
• Story ID: 20677
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ