CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - A distribution management specialist with Landing Support Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, was awarded the Purple Heart Medal during a ceremony here Nov. 21 for wounds suffered in action while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Cpl. Edgar D. Vela, then a machine gunner with Transportation Support Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd MLG, was on a convoy in northern Helmand province, Afghanistan, April 21, 2013, when an approximately 75-pound improvised explosive device detonated underneath his vehicle.
“We all pay a pretty heavy price when we accept the call to serve,” said Capt. Luke Sauber, the LS Company commander, CLR-27, 2nd MLG. “Whether it’s leaving home, whether it’s deploying, there’s a lot of things we’re called to do. [Cpl. Vela] paid a little bit extra. He definitely deserves recognition today from each and every one of us here.
“I’m very happy that today I am able to recognize Cpl. Vela while standing in front of him,” said Sauber. “Unfortunately in the last ten years, too many of those awards and recognitions haven’t happened under the same circumstances.”