re: What would someone have to do to be awarded a bronze star?

quote:

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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Robb T. McDonald, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Executive Officer, Marine Attack Squadron TWO HUNDRED ELEVEN (VMA-211), Third Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. On the night of 14 September 2012 heavily armed enemy fighters infiltrated the Camp Bastion airfield, destroying coalition aircraft and attacking the squadron operations area. Major McDonald and two other officers, armed only with pistols, immediately left the security of the billeting area, and maneuvered on foot more than a mile through an area dangerously exposed to both enemy fire and possible friendly fire. When he reached the squadron maintenance building and learned that his Commanding Officer had been mortally wounded, Major McDonald assumed command and began directing the tactical situation. Realizing the aluminum skinned building was indefensible, he fearlessly exposed himself by leading multiple groups of his Marines across 75 meters of open ground to get them to the more protected squadron headquarters. Leading a small team out to reconnoiter the flight line, he killed one enemy with a rifle he had borrowed, and then expertly coordinated two helicopter strikes to destroy all remaining enemy. Major McDonald's decisive leadership and tactical expertise inspired his Marines to vigorously repel the enemy, thereby preventing additional friendly casualties and further destruction of aircraft and facilities. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Major McDonald reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

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