User:RightCowLeftCoast/Sandbox/David Halbruner

David R. Halbruner is an American soldier who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions during the 2012 Benghazi attack. From Cape May, New Jersey, he had previously served in Iraq.

Biography
Growing up in Cape May, New Jersey, Halbruner gradated from Lower Cape May Regional High School; there he swam in the school's swim team and had received an award for the sport. After High School, he joined the military, and served in Iraq. Serving 5 tours there, he received a Purple Heart for injuries which led to him loosing a finger and receiving shrapnel wounds to his neck.

In 2012, Halbruner was in Libya, and fought against an attacking force which had targeted a diplomatic mission, and a CIA facility. The Washington Times writes that Halbruner was initially in Tripoli, and was part of the rescue team, that flew into Benghazi on the morning of 12 September. During the transit from Tripoli to Benghazi, Halbruner and others were delayed from getting to the CIA facility, as they lacked transportation from the Benghazi Airport. For the same attack, a Marine, Gunnery Sergeant Tate Jolly, was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions. Due to their actions, they were able to save 30 American civilians, who who ultimately were evacuated to Ramstein, Germany.

Halbruner's actions during the Benghazi attack was described as "heroic military masculinity".

Distinguished Service Cross citation
Halbruner's citation for the Distinguished Service Cross reads as follows: "The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Master Sergeant David R. Halbruner, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action from 11 September 2012 to 12 September 2012, as a Team Leader for a Joint Task Force in support of an overseas contingency operation (at Benghazi, Libya). Without regard for his own safety, Master Sergeant Halbruner's valorous actions, dedication to duty and willingness to place himself in harm's way for the protection of others was critical to the success of saving numerous United States Civilian lives. Throughout the operation, Master Sergeant Halbruner continually exposed himself to fire as he shepherded unarmed civilians to safety and treated the critically wounded. His calm demeanor, professionalism and courage was an inspiration to all and contributed directly to the success of the mission. Master Sergeant Halbruner's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his Command and the United States Army."

- Department of the Army, General Orders No. 73 (October 22, 2013)