Army Specialist's family receives Bronze Star Medal with Valor

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Samantha S. Crane
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Army Spc. Steven R. Elrod was posthumously presented a Bronze Star Medal with Valor here Dec. 17 for actions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Specialist Elrod's father, retired Master Sgt. Denny Elrod, and his stepmother, Susan Elrod from the 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron, received one of the three medals for his actions while his grandparents, Bob and Mary Morin, received the other two.

Specialist Elrod, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, was awarded the medal for exceptionally valorous achievement during OIF on May 13. His quick reactions, courage under fire, remarkable marksmanship and selflessness repelled an enemy ambush and allowed troops to decisively engage and defeat the enemy.

"Only a select few stand up and volunteer to defend our rights and freedoms," said Army Brig. Gen. Alan Gayhart, Idaho Air National Guard assistant adjutant. "I'm very humbled to have the opportunity to recognize one of those great individuals today. [Specialist Elrod] went into harm's way not only to defend our freedoms but to accomplish the mission and more importantly to protect the lives of his fellow Soldiers."

But before he could return home to receive his medal, he was killed Sept. 10 in Baghdad.

While riding in a five-ton cargo truck returning from a raid, the vehicle veered off the road and plunged 30 feet, killing nine and injuring 10.

On the online American Heroes' Memorial Web site, http://heroesmemorial.blogspot.com, an anonymous person posted the following message:

"You touched the lives and souls of so many in this world. You stand for the ideals we want so badly in this life - integrity, compassion, willingness to put others before yourself. Thank you."

Specialist Elrod's actions were honored and remembered throughout the presentation of the Bronze Star Medal.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized the medal on Feb. 4, 1944, to recognize ground troops during World War II. The award is the fourth-highest award for bravery, heroism or meritorious service.

"He's our hero," Mrs. Morin said.