Airman receives BSM for actions

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class David Owsianka
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  A Thunderbolt received the Bronze Star Medal March 29 at the Luke Air Force Base Theater for his actions during a deployment in Iraq. Master Sgt. Jacob Campbell, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight NCO-in-charge, provided leadership for the 447th EOD Flight as the operations NCO-in-charge during his deployment.

Before each mission, Sergeant Campbell performed intel briefings regarding roadside bombs or ordnance in the area. He also rode with the teams on missions to ensure their thought processes were where they should be.

"Stress is always there," Sergeant Campbell said. "I wanted the teams to accomplish the mission the best they could and come back safely."

Sergeant Campbell's experience and technical expertise ensured that critical information on new devices and enemy techniques and tactics were conveyed to team leaders. He also accompanied EOD teams during missions to use his knowledge and experience to mentor three first-time team leaders.

"One of the best parts of my career is being able to teach servicemembers how to perform this job," said Sergeant Campbell. "It really put things in perspective when I got to see how much I've learned throughout my career and was able to pass it on to new EOD techs."

The unified direction of leadership and combat experience of Sergeant Campbell were defining components to the successful implementation of counter insurgent operations. He ensured the safety of approximately 3,500 U.S. Forces and 4.1 million local nationals, according to the Bronze Star Medal citation.

Chief Master Sgt. Muhammad Mustafa, 56th CES EOD Flight chief, will soon retire and said he cannot think of a better leader to hand over the shop keys to.

"I know that Luke's EOD team will continue to excel under his tutelage and guidance," Chief Mustafa said. "He will continue to provide knowledge to EOD operators for both home station emergencies and throughout the extended battlefields we face today."