the Lincoln Journal Star | Posted: Thursday, February 23, 2006 6:00 pm
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