The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Staff Sergeant Eric C. Edson, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious achievement while engaged in combat operations against an enemy of the United States during Operation DESERT STORM as Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Noncommissioned Officer, 7th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), from 24 February 1991 through 5 March 1991. Staff Sergeant Edson took a non-existent chemical defense program and developed one that instilled confidence in the soldiers. He ensured protective equipment was made available and that all pre-combat checks were made which significantly contributed to the Division’s successful combat operations. His selfless dedication to mission accomplishment is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military and reflects great credit upon himself, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and the United States Army.