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 Captain Kurt G. Schueller, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious heroism in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 3 April 2006. His exemplary 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:
Captain Kurt G. Schueller heroically distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct in the face of the enemy of the United States as an Infantry Advisor to the 3-1-7 Iraqi Army on 3 April 2006 during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. On 3 April 2006 Captain Schueller was involved in a combat action that took place in the MC1 area of the Ar Ramadi battle space. Elements of B-109 IN were taking fire from the south and southeast from an unknown number of insurgents (it was later determined the number was 12 – 15 enemy combatants.) After 30 minutes of exchanging gunfire and three iterations of indirect fire, B-109 IN and 3-1-7 IA were still taking small arms fire. It was determined that Company 2, 3-1-7 IA should move forward to sweep the field of the enemy. Captain Schueller ordered all elements across a bridge that spanned the canal in front of the position. Captain Schueller then took a position 15 meters in front 20 Iraqi soldiers on the field and led them, with three other American advisors and 79 Iraqi troops, in an unsupported frontal assault. He gave the order to advance. What followed was a three hour battle in which Captain Schueller was called upon to make life and death decision. Captain Schueller was under the constant threat of great bodily harm or death from the enemy. He maneuvered his element on the field to sweep and clear wheat fields as well as hedge rows. His element was repeatedly under automatic weapons fire from both AK-47s and RPKs. When two Iraqi soldiers were wounded, Captain Schueller immediately sent a runner to bring down a M113 to use as a MEDEVAC. As the M113 made its way down, Captain Schueller guided it under fire to where the wounded men were being treated in a ditch. During the battle Captain Schueller led from the front and pressed forward without fail. His element is credited with “pressing the fight to the enemy” and driving the enemy backwards. The enemy repeatedly engaged, fell back, reorganized, reloaded and engaged again. Captain Schueller continuously led from the front under fire. He showed great courage and was an inspiration to the Iraqi soldiers he was leading. His sound decision making and actions under fire no doubt reduced the number of casualties sustained by Company 2, 3-1-7 IA on the field that day. Captain Schueller’s elements helped to drive a fairly well organized enemy from the field. Throughout his three hour battle Captain Schueller displayed no fear of the enemy, moved about under fire reassuring the men and put himself “up front” to help win the field. This was at great risk to his personal safety. He showed outstanding courage and determination on the field. Captain Schueller’s actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, this command, and the United States Army.