National Guard soldiers honored

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By the Lincoln Journal Star

Seventeen Nebraska Army National Guard soldiers were honored at the Capitol Wednesday for earning medals.

The ceremony honored soldiers who have been awarded the Bronze Star for Valor, the Army Commendation Medal for Valor for heroism under fire, and the Purple Heart for wounds sustained in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. It was in the Warner Chamber in the State Capitol.

Gov. Dave Heineman and Maj. Gen. Roger Lempke, adjutant general for Nebraska, participated in the ceremony.

A special memorial was also held for the three soldiers who died during Operation Iraqi Freedom: Master Sgt. Linda Tarango-Griess, Sgt. 1st Class Tricia Jameson and Staff Sgt. Jeremy Fischer.

Bronze Star with Valor

The medal is given for participating in an act of heroism or valorous deed involving conflict with an armed enemy. Soldiers honored:

Spc. Jennifer Beck

Spc. Joshua Birkel

Spc. Richard DeLancey

Spc. Michael Sharples

Purple Heart

Awarded to any member of the Armed Services who has been wounded, killed or has died of wounds suffered. Soldiers honored:

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Preister

Sgt. Terence Ricketts

Sgt. Matthew Rouse

Sgt. Chad Schroetlin

Spc. Richard DeLancey

Spc. Justin Diggins

Spc. Jacob Graff

Spc. John Harris

Spc. Kelsey Lamb

Spc. Fenton Phan

Spc. Rachelle Spors

Army Commendation Medal with Valor

Awarded to any member of the Armed Forces, other than general officers, who distinguish themselves by heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service. Soldiers honored:

Sgt. Eric Nesiba

Spc. Jacob Graff

Spc. Donald Harrer

Spc. Nathan Reitz