Tim Mousel

EOD member honored in Portraits of Courage By Sheila Rupp Nucleus Staff

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico -- Members of explosive ordnance disposal teams have dangerous jobs, but are very important in the Global War on Terror. Their training in explosives is important in combat situations and an Airman here has been recognized for his bravery in Portraits of Courage, Volume II. Senior Airman Nicholas Worthington, 377th Civil Engineer Division, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, will be featured in the publication as the Air Force Materiel Command selection. The publication is scheduled for release in late September. The Portraits of Courage series was developed by Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. T. Michael Moseley to highlight the honor, valor, devotion and selfless sacrifice of America's Airmen. "The series identifies a mixture of Airmen from across our Total Force who have displayed remarkable leadership, courage, performance, commitment and service in a time of war," General Moseley said. Airman Worthington was deployed to Baghdad during the summer of 2006 where he was part of an EOD team that investigated suspicious devices that convoys encountered. During the deployment, Airman Worthington's convoy hit an improvised explosive device. The team was led from the blast site by a command wire leading to a nearby house. The team was analyzing the house when a secondary IED exploded. Airman Worthington was thrown to the ground by the blast, but after regaining his bearings he began performing initial self aid and buddy care to his wounded team leader. After medics arrived to take over, insurgents began firing small arms at the coalition forces. Airman Worthington put himself in front of his injured team leader and returned fire. After the fire fight ended, he helped carry the wounded coalition personnel to a medevac helicopter. Airman Worthington was awarded the Bronze Star earlier this year. He is one of 13 Airmen to be recognized in Portraits of Courage, Volume II.

darrianation

These young men do incredible things everyday in the face of danger and they do it day after day. They all deserve our respect, admiration, and above all our gratitude.

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In hills, as well as in villages and cities, hazards and predators find those who walk backwards.- Ezekiel Sanchez

Mike Brewer

Props indeed. Men like your cousin make me proud to have served, and even prouder to be an American.

Britt

Great to see your cousin getting the recognition he deserves, Tim.