[ad_1]
Three Vermont National Guard Members Awarded Purple Heart for Bravery in Iraq
SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. — In a powerful ceremony on Saturday, three members of the Vermont National Guard were presented with the Purple Heart, honoring their valor during a perilous mission in Iraq on Christmas Day 2023. Major John Lescure, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Nicholas Fazio, and Sergeant Alex Jarvis received the esteemed military recognition following their heroism during a drone attack that occurred on December 25, where they sustained injuries but still managed to save a fellow soldier’s life.
Reflecting on the significant occasion, Maj. Lescure expressed pride in representing the Vermont National Guard and their families. The three soldiers were injured during a drone attack while conducting a vital mission, yet they displayed remarkable courage by executing a medevac operation to evacuate a wounded comrade to safer care.
Col. Matthew Brown, Chief of Staff of the Vermont National Guard, praised their commitment to duty, stating, "It’s thanks to these individuals that, despite being injured themselves, they stepped up and conducted a medevac mission." Maj. Lescure shared the profound impact of the experience, recalling their year-long deployment and the challenges faced away from their families.
The Purple Heart is a prestigious military honor bestowed in the name of the President of the United States to those wounded or killed while serving. Maj. Dan Davis, Brigade Aviation Officer with the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, underscored the award’s importance, as it symbolizes not only personal bravery but also the collective spirit of all who serve in the armed forces. The recognition of Lescure, Fazio, and Jarvis reflects their exceptional dedication and the sacrifice made by service members both abroad and at home.
Source
Photo credit www.mynbc5.com