'Extraordinary ability' in Iraq earns doctor Bronze Star

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Joe McFadden
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  A lieutenant colonel from the 1st Special Operations Medical Group received a Bronze Star during an award ceremony at the 8th Special Operations Squadron auditorium Feb. 1.

Lt. Col. Terence Mitchell, 1st SOMDG chief of medical staff, served as a staff physician for a joint task force in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from Aug. 20, 2008 to Jan. 7, 2009.

According to the award's citation, Colonel Mitchell provided first-class health care to task force personnel from a variety of military branches and civilian agencies. He also demonstrated an extraordinary ability to operate in the most uncertain and fluid combat environments contributing to the task force's success.

"I think we can all say this is very well-earned," said Col. Dale Agner, 1st SOMDG commander. "This is no surprise that he got the Bronze Star. He did a great job."

Colonel Mitchell received the award during the 1st SOMDG's commander's call with most of the group in attendance. While the group was not made aware of the award until a few weeks ago, Colonel Agner said they waited for the entire group to be assembled for this special occasion.

Colonel Mitchell said it was outstanding to receive the award with the group and his wife Katy present.

"I've been here for more than five years, and I know a lot of people here," he said. "It's kind of humbling, too."

While in Iraq, Colonel Mitchell said the opportunity to work with lots of different agencies was the most valuable experience of his career.

"It was an incredible mission," he said. "There are so many outstanding people out there who all make the mission go. It's been a great opportunity for those who are involved, and they make things happen in Operation Iraqi Freedom."

Mrs. Mitchell said that seeing her husband recognized in front of the group made the presentation more special.

"He's an outstanding doctor, husband and officer," she said. "I'm just so proud of him and glad everybody else is, too."

The Bronze Star is awarded to U.S. Armed Forces servicemembers for acts of bravery, acts of merit or meritorious service in combat.