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Team Scott Airman earns Army Commendation Medal

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brian Butkus
  • 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
12/21/2006 --  The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to those who distinguish themselves by an act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United States.

One of Scott's own 375th Security Forces Squadron servicemembers received this award upon his return from a tour supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Benjamin Bomar, 375th SFS military dog handler began his journey in November 2005 when he deployed with the 133rd Calvary, 101st Airborne Division to Baji, Iraq.

When Sergeant Bomar joined his unit he was not only the sole Air Force member he was also the first military dog handler his fellow servicemembers had worked with.
While working with the 133rd and 101st Sergeant Bomar and his partner Mike, a German Shepard primary mission was to conduct combat operations focused on locating and destroying insurgent weapons and explosive caches.

Sergeant Bomar and Mike had trained for over a year together and all their training still didn't compare to what was in store for them during this deployment.

"I can remember one scenario that specifically comes to mind when I think about all the training we did back stateside," said Sergeant Bomar. "We were engaged in direct combat with the enemy when a wounded insurgent ran into the desert and proceeded to hide in a hole to avoid capture. I deployed Mike on a search maneuver and within five minutes the insurgent was located during his attempted escape."

In addition to Sergeant Bomar and Mike's regular task of locating insurgent weapons and explosive caches, they also took part in five nighttime air assault missions.
These missions were designed to capitalize on real-time intelligence.

As a result of Sergeant Bomar and Mike's help, numerous weapons and explosive devices were found and neutralized.

"Mike and I went through some tough times during our deployment," said Sergeant Bomar. "No only were we under constant attack, we were also hit by two roadside bombs and fortunate enough to walk away with little to no injuries."

Upon Sergeant Bomar's return to the states he was awarded the Army Combat Action Badge for his actions and also received both the Army Achievement and Commendation Medals.

"After I received my decorations I learned of the importance of the awards I had received," said Sergeant Bomar. "It was a true honor to be recognized by one or our sister services," he said.