Technical Sergeant Matthew Jones: Security Forces Specialist 

In October ‘07, Technical Sergeant Matthew Jones, a battlefield interrogation team leader, led his team on a mission searching for high-value militia leaders in the mountains of Afghanistan.

During the assault, the Chinook helicopter transporting his team suffered a hard landing due to “brown out” conditions. Sergeant Jones sustained extensive abrasions and contusions to the left side of his body. After evacuating the helicopter, his team immediately engaged nine hostiles, killing six on the initial assault. The assault force divided to pursue the remaining hostiles on foot, ultimately capturing two and killing one, while sustaining zero friendly casualties. Due to the continuing enemy threat, the group had to await a nighttime extraction. Under heavy fire from rocket-propelled grenades and small arms, Sergeant Jones traveled with the assault force on foot between two mountain ranges. Using weapons fire to cover movement, the assault force advanced one kilometer to a nearby compound and quickly established defensive fighting positions. Despite injuries received under fire, Sergeant Jones sprinted the remaining 200 meters to the compound with two detainees in tow.

With 360-degree security established, Sergeant Jones interrogated his captives and acquired the location of a terrorist training camp north of the assault force’s position. Sergeant Jones relayed this intelligence to command, who quickly initiated a successful air attack on the training camp by A-10 aircraft and Apache helicopters. While waiting for extraction, the assault force continued engaging hostiles, killing more than 80 enemy personnel.

Sergeant Jones received treatment for his injuries and returned to duty. He received the Air Force Combat Action Medal for his heroic efforts.