Staff Sergeant Rory Sturm, Security Forces 

Throughout his deployment to Iraq, Staff Sergeant Rory Sturm repeatedly faced danger during more than 70 convoy security sweeps to identify improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and terrorist threats to Coalition personnel.

During his deployment, Sturm became an inspiration to his fellow Airmen. When his installation was violently attacked under a hail of rocket, mortar, and small arms fire, his swift actions to reinforce installation defenses thwarted an insurgent assault and prevented enemy detainees from escaping. On a separate occasion, Sergeant Sturm responded outside the wire to provide emergency treatment for an Iraqi heart attack victim. He assessed the victim’s status, provided immediate care and then transported the patient to further medical care, saving the individual’s life.

On October 16, 2006, Sturm’s courage, combat training and lifesaving skills were sorely tested again when enemy insurgents attacked his convoy near Safwan, Iraq. An IED struck his vehicle, injuring Sturm and the two other crewmembers. He provided immediate medical aid to the injured and then evacuated his grievously wounded gunner from the vehicle. Sturm replaced the vehicle’s injured gunner and defended the 12 members of his team against further enemy attack until reinforcements and medical personnel were able to arrive.

Staff Sergeant Sturm’s actions under direct hostile fire resulted in the NCO becoming the first member of the 21st Space Wing to earn the Air Force Combat Action Medal. He was also awarded the Purple Heart and Army Combat Action Badge.