Award

Summary of Action:

-HM2 Charles Milam is enthusiastically recommended for the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device for heroic service while serving as Platoon Corpsman, 1st Platoon Direct Action and Special Reconnaissance Element, Company G, 2D Marine Special Operations Battalion, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. His personal initiative, relentless work ethic and sense of mission accomplishment were a direct reflection of his character and dedication to the Marines in his unit.

-On 25 September 2007, HM2 Milam was conducting a combined joint operation with Afghan National Army forces and United States Army Special Forces. His stack was tasked with directly supporting ODB 720 in clearing named areas of interest and disrupting enemy concentrations in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan. Each of these areas was suspected to have significant Taliban activity.

-At approximately 1330, HM2 Milam's position came under accurate, sustained enemy mortar, RPG and small arms fire. He immediately identified the location of the enemy position in a compound to the north and returned fire. He then assumed the position of point man, leading his stack to clear the enemy compound. Upon arrival to the enemy location, enemy casualties were found and HM2 Milam moved with his stack to continue their pursuit. After the compound was secure, HM2 Milam and his stack continued conducting a systematic clear of the city. Their efforts forced the enemy to push north, where elements from ODB 720 were in contact.

-HM2 Milam and his stack moved north in order to support ODB 720. Upon their arrival, they quickly assessed the situation and made coordination with the on-scene commander. Marine snipers from HM2 Milam's stack began to move to over watch positions when they came under heavy enemy small arms fire, effectively pinning them down. HM2 Milam and his stack moved back to their vehicles in