SPC Michael Carter, combat photographer, awarded Silver Star

[Daniel Bates]

I thought some of us who are current or former combat cameras might appreciate this piece:

http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/1...amera_121508w/

The story is pretty incredible. Carter was assigned to the 55th Combat Camera Company, which is one of the two major assignments for 25V combat documentation / production specialists in the Army. (I'm assigned to the other; most of my classmates went to 55th.) Carter was tasked to 3rd SF Group when he deployed to Afghanistan, and went out with ODA 3336 to shoot video of an air assault on a Hezeb Islamic al Gulbadin stronghold. The ODA was ambushed en route and spent seven hours pinned down on a cliff face. The soldiers had to call in "danger close" air strikes practically on their own position.

Carter's video camera (presumably an XL-1 - I don't know what they deployed with) now displays a nice bullet hole. If I were him, I'd write it off on the hand receipts and keep it as a momento... that will be one heck of a conversation piece (that and the Silver Star next to it). SPC Carter is the only 25V to receive a Silver Star, ever.

Here is the battle narrative, as well as the narrative accompanying Carter's award.

[Ahh!]

Thank you, "Private!"

I am thankful, humbled, and otherwise left silent in respect for the heroic actions of which you report.

[allanc]

All I can say is, "Wow."

[lhdvies]

Thks for the post Daniel. My Marine son is headed for his 4th deployment early next year(this time to Afgan again) & I only wish I could go along to document his duty. You guys help a lot!!!

[ttusa]

WOW!!! Everyone in America should truly appreciate our soldiers!

[Truckman]

Hand salute to all who have served and those who continue to serve...Ben

[pbyd]

Daniel,
From an old '60's Marine, Thank you and all of our military for what you have given us here in the "world".
Wayne

[CaptainTom]

As a Viet combat Vet, I can tell you that there is no training for valor and courage. You are trained in tactics and skill, but until you see someone go down next to you, there is no way to forecast what you feel.
All heroes say that they just did what they had to do. I never believe them. I know they did more than they HAD to do. They did what they hoped every other soldier would do for them. It's truly a brotherhood.

[dbphotos]

Great story - thanks for sharing. I'm sure that the final comment of the story is more valuable than the star... "When we were coming down the mountainside, one of the guys asked me, ‘When are you coming to the team?"