1st MAW Marine receives Bronze Star Medal

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA (Jan 31, 2006) -- Major General George J. Trautman III presents Sgt. Maj. Andrés M. Moratalla with the Bronze Star Medal Jan. 27 outside of Hangar 533. According to his award citation, Moratalla received the medal for meritorious achievement in connection with combat operations in Iraq. During a convoy movement in October 2004, Moratalla led recovery procedures after a coordinated ambush by insurgents near Al Fallujah. In accordance with training given by Moratalla, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 Marines accelerated through the ambush site, returning suppressive fire at identifiable enemy targets. Moratalla's leadership ensured the convoy successfully completed the remainder of the 400-mile trek without damage to equipment or loss of personnel. Maj. Gen. Trautman is the commanding general of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and Moratalla is the sergeant major of HMM-265. (Photo by Cpl. Sarah Maynard)

*View/download a high res copy of this image.