While assigned as a vehicle operations apprentice to Task Force Mountain Warrior, Provincial Reconstruction Team Laghman, Afghanistan in October 2009, Airman First Class Jeffrey Leigh demonstrated gallantry and professionalism during an ambush by enemy forces against his convoy.

While Airman Leigh performed duties as a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected driver rifleman during a mounted patrol to Kotalay Village, three insurgents initiated a complex ambush in rugged mountainous terrain. The attack included a command wire improvised explosive device (CWIED) and effective AK-47 fire from an elevated position.

Immediately after the CWIED detonation, Airman Leigh assisted with the evacuation of the injured members of his team. Without regard for his own safety and ignoring the injuries he sustained in the CWIED blast, Airman Leigh proceeded on a 500 meter assault to locate the enemy forces. His tenacity contributed to his element locating the firing point of the CWIED, at which time Airman Leigh came under automatic small arms fire from an unknown location. In response, Airman Leigh established a secure, support-byfire position to facilitate the advance of secondary friendly forces.

Airman Leigh’s decisive actions caused the enemy forces to abandon their fighting positions and retreat. His actions were directly responsible for reversing the outcome of the engagement, providing protection of the casualty collection point, and enabling the safe recovery of an Afghan government official.

For his actions in Afghanistan, Airman Leigh earned the Army Commendation Medal with Valor and the Air Force Combat Action Medal.