The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Staff Sergeant Charles R. Quintanilla, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious heroism while serving with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade, 2d Infantry Division, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 9 April 2004 in Iraq. Staff Sergeant Quintanilla’s selfless service and outstanding dedication to duty during combat operations in Iraq contributed to the overwhelming success of the Command’s mission. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Multi-National Corps Iraq, and the United States Army.
NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD:
On 9 April 2004, non-compliant forces ambushed Staff Sergeant Quintanilla’s squad while they were en route to an op site. Despite being under direct fire from all directions by no less than 20 AK-47 and 5 RPG gunmen, Staff Sergeant Quintanilla positioned the members of his squad in order to effectively return fire. He then was able to maneuver his squad out of the enemy kill zone. His composed leadership and competence under intense pressure from overwhelming enemy fire prevented his squad from being overrun. With his Alpha Team holding off the enemy assault, Staff Sergeant Quintanilla maneuvered his bravo team to the opposite side of the objective in order to flank the enemy, denying them the freedom of maneuver, and enabling his M203 gunner to suppress enemy fighting positions in nearby buildings. He was able to maneuver his element and effectively emplace each weapon systems in order to repel a numerically superior enemy force. Staff Sergeant Quintanilla’s quick thinking and situational awareness enabled his squad of nine men to establish a battle position and defend against at least twenty-five insurgent attackers. By the time the battle ended, Staff Sergeant Quintanilla’s squad and the battalion quick reaction force had killed at least 17 insurgents during the firefight and sustained no friendly casualties. The devastating outcome on the enemy force and safety of all U.S. Forces involved are strong testament to leadership, dedication, and skill of Staff Sergeant Quintanilla. (The Combat “V” is authorized.)