LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. –The Bronze Star, also known as the Bronze Star Medal or “Ground Medal,” is awarded to any member of the U.S. military for heroic service, meritorious achievement or meritorious service in a combat zone. It can also be awarded to members of foreign militaries and civilians.
There have been notable recipients throughout history who have earned this award, such as U.S. Army Lt. Col. Alan Cozzalio, a helicopter pilot, U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Robert E. Cushman Jr., the 25th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Mark Esper, the 27th Secretary of Defense.
Among these men and women stands Master Sgt. Thomas Williams, 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit weapons loading non-commissioned officer in charge. He earned the medal for his meritorious achievement as Armament Program Manager and Weapons Safety Air Advisor, 440th Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron, while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force at Forward Operating Base Oqab, Kabul, Afghanistan.