Corpsman Sees StarsAug 6 2004Sgt. Joseph A. LeeStanding alongside his fellow service members, a corpsman with 3rd Marine Regiment was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, July 29, for actions in Iraq while participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Senior Chief Petty Officer William L. Stone, command senior chief of 3rd Marine Regiment, received the coveted medal for exceptional meritorious service while assigned as medical non-commissioned officer in charge, Coalition Military Assistance Training Team, Kirkush Military Training Base, Kirkush, Iraq. According to the award citation, Stone demonstrated undaunted persistence in the face of utmost adversity to oversee the complete renovation of a new, modern medical facility. Stone designed and coordinated the entire Medical Platoon Training Program, laying the foundation for training the Iraqi Army. "It's a proud day for me, and a great time to be in the service," said Stone after receiving the medal. "I believe that everything we are doing over there is the right thing, and from my experiences interacting with the Iraqi people, I never met one person who didn't want us over there." Stone looked to his command and his family for support while he was away, and claims he couldn't have had the strength to continue if it weren't for the support he received from them. "The real heroes are the men and women still out there now," said Stone. "They continue with their mission in the desert -- undaunted, with the thoughts and prayers of us back at home." 
© 2004, Hawaii Marine
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