James Mead Receives Bronze Star  For Distinguished Service

Air Force Capt James G. Mead, the son of John and Marion Mead of South Main Street, recently received the Bronze Star medal for distinguished service in Kuwait.

Capt Mead served as aerial port flight commander for the 5th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron at Kuwait City International Airport, while engaged in ground combat against the enemy from February 11, 2003, to May 2, 2003.

“While exposed to extreme danger from hostile bombing and mortar attacks, Capt Mead established and maintained a vital strategic airlift and transportation hub supporting all strategic intratheater Air Mobility Command operations in Kuwait and Iraq,” the citation said. “His unparalleled leadership proved invaluable during the standup of the 5th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron, where he skillfully melded personnel from seven different bases under extreme conditions into a highly organized team.”

The citation said that “Of particular note, he organized the expeditious transition of the 3rd and 4th Infantry Division, 82nd Airborne, and a myriad of US Navy, Marine, Air Force, Coast Guard, and coalition forces through Kuwait to the frontlines of Iraq.

“He was the linchpin of the busiest aerial port in the theater with movement of over 230,000 coalition forces and 87,400 tons of combat support cargo on over 5,200 missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“The exemplary leadership, personal endeavor, and devotion to duty displayed by Capt Mead in this responsible position reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force,” the citation said.

The citation was signed by Air Force Lt Gen Walter F. Buchanan III.

Subsequently, Capt Mead was been promoted to major, completed his active duty, and is now serving in the US Air Force Reserve.

“So many military men and women who have served our country do not get the recognition that they serve for the duties that they perform,” Major Mead’s parents said in a letter to The Bee.

“Our son is a humble man; he did not want a big deal made over his achievement. But [we] would like him to know how very proud of him and the many others like him we are.”

The Meads asked everyone to “keep in your prayers and hearts all of the military personnel that serve our country everywhere.”