CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Sgt. David Chalifoux from Wolcott, Vt., was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with Valor, Sept. 4, 2013.
He is currently assigned as a squad leader for the battalion commander’s personal security detachment, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 307th Engineer Battalion (Combat) (Airborne), Task Force SAW, in Regional Command Southwest, Afghanistan.
While operating in Farah province, Afghanistan, July 4, 2013, Chalifoux displayed uncommon valor in the face of enemy fire. He was moving through an insurgent stronghold with the Afghan National Army forces when an insurgent attempted to engage them from 30 meters away. Sgt. Chalifoux pushed another soldier out of harm’s way, dove for cover and returned fire. With little regard for his own safety, he continued to move forward under enemy fire, conducted a breach and cleared the compound to eliminate the insurgent threat.
Chalifoux is an engineer stationed in Fort Bragg, N.C.
His previous awards include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Parachutist Badge, and the Driver’s and Mechanic’s Badges. He was also awarded the Combat Action Badge for his involvement during this operation.