Mike Crapo: “I wish to recognize the valor, leadership, and service of MAJ Vaughn L. Ward, a third-generation Idahoan who grew up…”

“I wish to recognize the valor, leadership, and service of MAJ Vaughn L. Ward, a third-generation Idahoan who grew up working on his family's farm in southern Idaho. On October 22, 2007, Major Ward received the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device for heroic achievement in combat while serving as a Marine Rifle Company Commander in Fallujah, Iraq, from March to October of 2006. During 7 months of combat operations, Major Ward distinguished himself as an exemplary leader of Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines, Regimental Combat Team 5. Charlie Company was centrally located in the center of Fallujah and colocated with the Iraqi Police Headquarters. Insurgent forces regularly attacked this strategic position. During the tour, insurgents launched over a dozen complex attacks against his position, utilizing more than 120 rounds of indirect fire, IDF, AK-47 and PKC fire, vehicle borne improvised explosive devices, VBIEDs, improvised explosive devices, IEDs, and sniper fire. Major Ward commanded his marines through these attacks and usually led the counterattack against enemy forces. From March through October, Charlie Company engaged the enemy over 130 times, conducted nearly a thousand foot and vehicle patrols, and carried out over 100 raids against insurgent locations. Major Ward's military honors are only the latest in a career marked by excellence, leadership, and achievement.”