BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (July 12, 2008) — A 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team Soldier earned a Silver Star for combat operations and was presented the medal in a ceremony here, today.

Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser, Combined Joint Task Force 101 commander, presented Capt. William G. Cromie with a Silver Star, the third highest military decoration and praised him for his valor.

Cromie was recognized for his actions during an ambush on Nov. 16, 2007, while acting as platoon leader for 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company during a route-clearance operation along the Korengal Road in Konar province.

The Platoon was called out to perform route clearance on a portion of the Korengal Road after receiving a tip that an IED may have been placed there.

“While travelling down the road, our first vehicle struck an IED,” said Cromie. “Immediately, we were ambushed on three sides by heavily-armed militants.”

Two Soldiers managed to advance to an over-watch position to help cover the platoon, but were soon pinned down and running low on ammunition. Cromie personally moved more ammunition to the two Soldiers while running through the small-arms cross fire.

Finally, after receiving close-air support, the platoon was able to mount a counter-attack and pushed the militants back to a house. The platoon then cleared the house, killing the militants.

“I really would like to thank the squad leaders, they really acted professionally even under a stressful situation like that, and the guys in 3rd Platoon for their bravery,” said Cromie.