Chief Master Sergeant Fred R. Knox distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing force as Senior Enlisted Leader, 157th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron, 157th Fighter Wing, Undisclosed Location. During this period, in support of Operation EPIC FURY while personally exposed to hostile Iranian attacks consisting of over 470, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and one-way attack drones, Sergeant Knox's life was exposed to imminent danger through 155 alarm red conditions and the kinetic intercepts of TBM, CM, and UAS threats, culminating in 28 direct impacts throughout the immediate work area and across the base. Additionally Chief Knox performed his duties with complete disregard to personal safety under extreme time constraints and direct overhead missile interceptions. Through quick thinking he authorized and spearheaded quick-turn fueling and reloading of munitions on multiple aircraft enabling the immediate return of vital mission-critical aircraft to combat operations. His efforts directly supported the successful search and rescue of a downed allied aviator who was isolated deep behind enemy lines. Furthermore, his steadfast leadership was instrumental in the overwhelming demand for constant aircraft and munitions configuration changes and the first-ever combat employment of the Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missiles by the Air National Guard. Moreover, Sergeant Knox was unwilling to send Airmen into harm's way alone during alarm red conditions when he joined the 335th F-15 hot pit crew exiting a bunker to complete critical refueling operations during an inbound missile threat. He provided real time intercept updates and critical overwatch, safeguarding the team while they conducted aircraft refueling operations and executed launch to survive requirements. Finally, Sergeant Knox led XX maintainers through XX maintenance actions, his tireless efforts were pivotal to the Wing's execution of 3,257 combat sorties, the combat employment of 5,722 Guided Bomb Units, 696 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems, 347 Standoff Missiles, and 129,921 rounds of heavy aircraft ammunition, and the successful engagement of over 13,000 vital enemy targets. The exemplary leadership, personal endeavor, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Knox in this responsible position reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

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For meritorious achievement in connection with operations involving conflict with an enemy force as Commanding Officer of Strike Fighter Squadron NINE SEVEN (VFA-97) from February 2025 to May 2026. Commander Jennings's brilliant leadership delivered the highest levels of lethality and survivability for VFA-97 during an extended nine-month deployment onboard USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70), conducting SEVENTH Fleet deterrence operations and FIFTH Fleet combat operations in support of Operation ROUGH RIDER. He expertly guided the squadron in the execution of 302 combat sorties while defending Carrier Strike Group ONE, coalition assets, and merchant shipping from Houthi aggression in the Gulf of Aden, as well as execution of 63 strike missions and successful employment of 116,500 pounds of precision-guided munitions. Additionally, he skillfully overcame maintenance and logistics challenges to achieve an impressive 78 percent mission capable rate for 14 F-35C Lightning II aircraft, enabling the first combat deployment of a Navy F-35 squadron. Furthermore, his focus on Sailor development resulted in 45 advancements, 41 reenlistments, and 55 Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialists. Commander Jennings's bold leadership, wise judgment, and unwavering dedication to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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CITATION
FOR THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL WITH "V" DEVICE

Sergeant Miguel L. Morales, United States Marine Corps

FOR SERVICE AS SET FORTH BELOW:

For heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Fire Team Leader, Marine Special Operations Command, Fox Company, in support of Operation Inherent Resolve on January 29th, 2016.

Demonstrating exceptional courage and tactical skill, Sergeant Morales maneuvered across open terrain under intense enemy fire to establish more effective satellite communications and to gain a superior vantage point to observe enemy maneuvers. With unwavering composure, he successfully coordinated multiple rotary-wing close air support missions, directing rockets, gunfire, and a precision Hellfire missile strike that significantly disrupted and destroyed enemy positions.

Despite being wounded by grenade shrapnel on two separate occasions, Sergeant Morales refused to withdraw from the fight. Displaying remarkable resilience and resolve, he continued to engage the enemy in close combat with his M4 weapon system. His selfless actions directly resulted in the elimination of the enemy force, safeguarded his Fire Team, and contributed to mission success.

By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Sergeant Morales reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

Given under my hand this 21st day of November 2024