![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.azuse.cloud\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Explosive-Ordnance-Disposal-1st-Class-Jeffrey-Thomas-300x214.jpg\")
<\/a><\/center><\/p>\nAW1Ed sends us a link to the story<\/a> of Explosive Ordnance Disposal 1st Class Jeffrey Thomas who was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Iraq on October 20 and 21, 2016 while his unit was engaged in a 10-hour firefight with elements of ISIS forces after an IED ambush.<\/p>\n After the lead vehicle in the convoy struck an improvised explosive device, mortally wounding a teammate, Thomas exited his vehicle and swept the vicinity for additional explosive devices in spite of enemy mortar and small arms fire impacting near him.<\/p>\n This enabled medics to maneuver to the damaged vehicle and provide critical combat care to the casualty. Thomas then guided the remaining vehicles out of the minefield, ensuring all forces safely reached the medial evacuation zone.<\/p>\n “No one that was present on the 20th of October knew better than Jeff the dangers he was facing,” said Cmdr. Geoff Townsend, commanding officer, EODMU 3. “After the EOD supervisor, a friend and mentor, was mortally wounded Jeff knowingly exposed himself to hazards in order to protect the lives of his teammates and brothers in arms, and secure a MEDEVAC for his wounded teammate. His actions that day saved the lives of his teammates and exceeded all measures of selflessness and devotion to his country.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\n