[The Bandit]

Here is a REAL Silver Star for you all, nothing phony here.

[annyokie]

3-9. Silver Star
a. The Silver Star, section 3746, title 10, United States Code (10 USC 3746), was established by Act of Congress 9 July 1918 (amended by act of 25 July 1963).

b. The Silver Star is awarded to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. The required gallantry, while of a lesser degree than that required for the Distinguished Service Cross, must nevertheless have been performed with marked distinction.

c. It is awarded upon letter application to Commander, PERSCOM, ATTN: TAPC-PDA, Alexandria, VA 22332-0471, to those individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army, received a citation for gallantry in action in World War I published in orders issued by a headquarters commanded by a general officer.

[HiJinx]

That was one quick Silver Star...but from the action report, well deserved.

As for the promotion, however...things must have changed in the last 8 years. When I was in, this would not have been a promotion. The ranks of Specialist and Corporal are both at pay-grade E-4. The difference is that the rank of Specialist (an E-4) wasn't normally given to a non-combat arms soldier.

On the other hand, all combat arms soldiers and all soldiers in a leadership position were promoted to the rank of corporal (an E-4) from Private First Class (an E-3).

[RangerVetNam]

I can assure you that enlisted men really earn their silver stars.

[EternalHope]

John F'n Kerry got a Silver Star for killing a wounded VC who was clearly no longer a threat to anybody, assuming the VC was even still alive (there were no witnesses).

I wonder if any reporter would dare ask F'n if F'n's actions were on a par with Pat Tillman's actions.

[cynicom]

All medals are not equal. Kerry may have been "awarded" a silver star, the difference is, did he "earn" it. I think not.

[railsplitter]

"Tillman's platoon was split into two sections. Tillman was the team leader of the lead section...

"Rangers Lead The Way" Very appropriate motto and Specialist (now Corporal) Tillman displayed leadership and courage befitting his Ranger Tab, his charges, and his chosen profession.

Thanks to all that have chosen the warrior's way of life.

Served in the glorious rank of E-4 (Specialist) myself. Often referred to as the backbone of the military (all branches) The most KIA's in this operation (theater) have been E-4's.

[Dog Gone]

Did I miss an announcement that CNN stories must be excerpted?

[mikenola]

The citizen-soldier. Country above self. More should be like him.

[threat matrix]

Not surpised at all.. from the guy whose ASU teammates nicknamed 'Braveheart'

[Smartass]

God Bless Pat Tilman

[kabar]

Ted Koppel will not mention Pat Tillman's name tonight. Tillman was killed in Afghanistan, but he did serve in Iraq as well. I guess Tillman and his other comrades who lost their lives in Afghanistan don't qualify to be "honored" by the leftist mainstream media and the antiwar party Dems. United under arms, divided in death. What a farce.

[wardaddy]

BTTT

[cgk]

Bump...

[Finalapproach29er]

Somebody here has to find out how it happened. It will be a tear-jerker, I expect. I've got to know.

[Libertina]

My respects to this brave man.

[FormerACLUmember]

THE RANGER CREED

Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps of the Rangers.

Acknowledging the fact that a Ranger is a more elite soldier who arrives at the cutting edge of battle by land, sea, or air, I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster, and fight harder than any other soldier.

Never shall I fail my comrades I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong, and morally straight and I will shoulder more than my share of the task whatever it may be, one hundred percent and then some.

Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well trained soldier. My courtesy to superior officers, neatness of dress, and care of equipment shall set the example for others to follow.

Energetically will I meet the enemies of my country. I shall defeat them on the field of battle for I am better trained and will fight with all my might. Surrender is not a Ranger word. I will never leave a fallen comrade to fall into the hands of the enemy and under no circumstances will I ever embarrass my country.

Readily will I display the intestinal fortitude required to fight on to the Ranger objective and complete the mission, though I be the lone survivor.

[Bronco_Buster_FweetHyagh]

I wish Kerry had earned his this way.