A Defense Logistics Agency employee wounded in the early morning attack June 8 at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, received the Defense of Freedom Medal during an Aug. 1 ceremony in Afghanistan.
Army Maj. Gen. Mike Murray, U.S. Forces Afghanistan deputy commanding general – support, presented the medal from the Secretary of Defense that serves as the civilian equivalent of a Purple Heart to Robert DeLong who was injured while travelling in a vehicle during the attack. DeLong was accompanied by fellow DLA Disposition Services employee Krissie Davis, who later died from her injuries and was honored at memorial service at Anniston Army Depot in Alabama. During the presentation, DeLong said he thanked the general and the other’s attendance.
“I mentioned the real heroes were the Air Force personnel that were in the truck behind us and became first responders,” DeLong said. “I was grateful that Krissie was in good hands and at least had a chance.”
During a July 29 Town Hall address to the workforce, DLA Disposition Services Director Mike Cannon noted the DeLong would be receiving the award. Cannon also noted that Delong opted to stay in theater and continue to serve as he recovered from his wounds despite having the option to end his tour early and return home