Silver Star for Alaska National Guardsman

Guardsman's Heroism in Afghanistan Garners Silver Star
KTUU News
Chris Klint Chris Klint
Senior Digital Producer

ANCHORAGE
Nearly four years after saving the lives of four comrades pinned down by gunfire in Afghanistan, an Alaska Air National Guard pararescueman received the nation's third-highest decoration for valor in recognition of his selfless acts.

Master Sgt. Roger Sparks, a member of the 212th Rescue Squadron, was awarded the Silver Star in a Friday ceremony on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, according to a statement from Guard spokesperson Capt. John Callahan.

The award recognizes Sparks’ actions on Nov. 14, 2010 during Operation Bulldog Bite, when he and another member of the 212th -- Capt. Koaalii Bailey -- were lowered by helicopter under fire from insurgents into the Watapur Valley, following a call to extract casualties from heavy combat with insurgents.

“Upon touchdown they were both blown off their feet by a rocket-propelled grenade, and Sparks instructed the flight crew via radio not to lower any more personnel due to the high volume of fire,” Callahan wrote. “Under fire from three directions, the pair began communicating with nearby Coalition aircraft to direct air strikes against insurgent positions. Making contact with forces on the ground, they then began to consolidate the wounded and provide treatment.”

Still being attacked by the enemy, Sparks was able to apply his skills to saving his comrades.
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