MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- A Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Marine, received a Bronze Star with combat distinguishing device in a ceremony March 23 at the Explosive Ordnance Disposal facility at Camp Elliott, Calif., east of Miramar.
Staff Sgt. Seth L. Leonard received the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in connection with combat operations involving conflict with an opposing force while supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Leonard was specifically recognized for his actions while serving as an explosive ordnance team leader with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 from Feb. 11 to Swpt 1, 2006. The Squadron is part of Mrine Wing Support Group 37 (reinforced), which belongs to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
During this time, Leonard executed 167 EOD missions, personally reducing the improvised explosive device threat in the Multi-National Force West area of operations, according to the citation.
The greatest threat then and now are improvised explosive devices, according to Chief Warrant Officer 4 Charles A. Whitlock, Leonard’s officer-in-charge during OIF and currently the EOD officer at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz.
Leonard's response to a call March 13, 2006, in support of Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, operating in Al Husaybah, Iraq illustrates the type of dedication that earned him the bronze star, the military's third highest personal decoration.
Rubble and rough terrain, prevented Talon robots from deploying in support of C Co., explained Leonard.
“The first robot slung a track, and the second couldn’t get through to the entrance. We were having a bad day,” Leonard said.
“When all remote means fail, we know the mission has to be completed. We do what we have to do to make it a safe place,” Whitlock said.
Leonard conducted the approach himself to investigate the suspected IED. Upon assessment he placed a two-block excavation charge, detonated the device and neutralized the threat, all the while under enemy observation.
"This is what we live for-to deal with that type of probem," said Leonard.
Most EOD technicians while deployed work 18 to 20 hours a day, seven days a week, according to Whitlock, crediting Leonard with not only being a skilled technician, but also being a pro at taking care of the Marines under his charge.
“He utilized the EOD (technicians) properly and never used them in a dangerous situation,” said Whitlock.
Accordingly, Leonard humbly accepts his award by recognizing the hard work of other EOD Marines.
“I feel honored for being recognized, but I don’t feel I did anything different than what any other EOD Marine would do,” Leonard said.