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Bronze Star Medal with Valor Recipient

SrA Forrest B. Sibley

Enduring Freedom
December 19, 2012

Kunar, Afghanistan

His 2nd Bronze Star Medal w/Valor Citation reads:


Senior Airman Forrest B. Sibley distinguished himself by heroism as a Combat Controller, 23d Expeditionary Special Tactics Squadron, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component Afghanistan, while engaged in ground combat against an enemy of the United States from 19 December 2012 to 21 December 2012. During this period, Airman Sibley served as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller for an Army Special Forces Team.


His team was conducting a combined large scale and high risk mission with Afghan Commandos in a key valley in central Kunar Province. Throughout the three day operation, while consistently under fire, Airman Sibley controlled 60 fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Throughout three separate troops in contact situations, he was responsible for the expenditure of 6,000 pounds of ordinance, over 6,500 rounds of fixed and rotary wing munitions, and 24 high explosive rockets. During the most intense firefight, Airman Sibley was pinned down with his teammates and being engaged from three fortified enemy locations within 200 meters.


While rounds peppered his position and rocket propelled grenades impacted within 10 feet, he repeatedly came out from behind cover to mark enemy positions and engage with his personal weapon while simultaneously de-conflicting and controlling up to 18 aircraft overhead. All the while, he was directing gun runs from both fixed and rotary attack aircraft laying down fire in danger close range to his and other friendly locations. 


In total, he provided terminal attack guidance for 36 separate air to ground engagements and was responsible for 16 enemy fighters killed in action. By his heroic actions and unselfish dedication to duty, Airman Sibley has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Silver Star Medal graphic for Combat Control Acts of Valor

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