MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. (March 13) -- One of the tests of leadership is how one responds under extreme circumstances. Marines train to overcome fear and complete their mission regardless of circumstance in hopes that success can be found even in chaos.
One such Marine is Capt. Aaron Awtry, company grade monitor with Manpower & Reserve Affairs, who was awarded the Bronze Star with combat distinguishing device on March 13 for his actions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom at the Clubs At Quantico. His company was in theatre in support of OEF from Sept. 1, 2011 to March 27, 2012.
“Like any good leader, Awtry will say that this award has nothing to do with him,” said Col. Jay Bargeron, ground colonel monitor for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, as he spoke to a room packed with Awtry’s professional acquaintances, and friends and family. “However, men under pressure do not perform to the level the men of Fox Co., [2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment], did without a strong, devoted leader. Awtry – though a man of few words – is that leader.”
Under Awtry’s charge, the company occupied a blocking position east of Juz Ghoray, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. On Oct. 30, 2011, under the cover of darkness, Awtry navigated Fox Co. into position on a seam between two identified enemy locations.
The following morning, the enemy found their reinforcement routes into Juz Ghoray cut off by a company of Marines. As a result, enemy units within the village had been isolated. Understanding their dilemma, the enemy began delivering heavy, accurate and sustained indirect fire from a prized AGS-17 Automatic Grenade System tucked away inside an urban area.
As explosions impacted the Marine positions, Awtry deliberately moved from one fighting hole to another through the shrapnel-laced air, seeking to identify the weapon’s location. According to his citation, his calm, composed demeanor encouraged his Marines, despite enemy rounds continuously pounding their positions. Awtry identified the enemy’s firing point and directed supporting assets against the threat, destroying both the enemy weapon system and its crew, eliminating the threat to his Marines.
“The caliber of men I have served with can’t be matched,” said Awtry. He then proceeded to describe the level of discipline and performance his men displayed in combat at the ceremony.
One of the Marines, with an unexploded Rocket Propelled Grenade lodged in his thigh, maintained cognizance while his fellow Marines carefully treated his wounds, as to not detonate the ordnance, he explained.
“This is for men like them,” Awtry said, his voice wavering slightly. While he spoke, his feelings showed as he paused to maintain composure. “Thank you.”
The powerful emotions Awtry felt toward the men he served with show that one does not have to be emotionless to be a leader and, his actions under pressure, show the capabilities of a strong leader.
Correspondent: Paris.capers@usmc.mil