FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Green Berets from 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) were honored in a ceremony held at the John F. Kennedy Auditorium June 14 for their actions while in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
A total of 41 Green Berets from various Special Forces Operational Detachments Alpha received valor awards which included nine Bronze Star medals with "V" device for valor, 24 Army Commendation Medals with "V" device for valor, 13 Purple Heart recipients and one being awarded the Silver Star.
The Silver Star is the third highest military decoration that can be awarded to a member of any branch of the United States Armed Forces.
The "V" device is authorized by all services and identifies the award as resulting from an act of combat heroism or valor.
Capt. Timothy Driscoll received the Silver Star for his actions on May 4, 2010 while serving as the Detachment Commander for Operational Detachment Alpha 3336 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On this day, Driscoll led a 180 man ground force that was completely surrounded by enemy forces through a 10 hour firefight, which lead to the killing of 30 enemy insurgents and the retreat of the remaining enemy force.
"The guys on the team did a phenomenal job," said Driscoll. "I am very humbled to receive this award. I feel for those of us that have served understand the significance of this award. I know that this was only possible because of the guys around me."
Out of the men recognized along with Driscoll were two other Green Berets that received multiple awards. Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Brown received the Bronze Star with "V" device and the Purple Heart and Staff Sgt. Bentura Orosco received the Bronze Starr with "V' device, the Army Commendation Medal with "V" devoice and the Purple Heart.
"You are sharing a historic moment as we recognize these incredible operators. In the case of our Purple Heart recipients, they have given more of themselves than most who fought alongside them, so often their own violation rather than from unanticipated lethal events that occur on the battle field," said Col. Mark C. Schwartz, 3rd SFG (A) commander.
"These men have preformed beyond what is expected of them in close combat in Afghanistan. Even though only one of their stories were read today in the narrative of Capt. Driscoll, every man we recognize today has a remarkable story of his own describing his personal courage, heroism and sacrifice," said Schwartz.
Six Operational detachments received recognition today. Since the beginning of OEF, members of 3rd SFG (A) have received recognition for their heroism. The Valor awards include: 239 BSM with "V" Devices, 56 Silver Stars, 2 Distinguished Service Crosses, and one Medal of Honor.