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Combat Medic Is Awarded for Heroic Efforts

Jul- 6-2006 » Filed Under: 172nd SBCT

Written by Spc. L.C. Campbell

MOSUL, Iraq (June 25, 2006) – A medic from the 172nd Brigade Support Medical Company, received an Army Commendation Medal with valor June 25, for actions taken on April 6.

Private 1st Class Ariel Kimble, medic, BMSC,172nd BSB, native to Bixby, Ok., was awarded the ARCOM with valor by Col. Michael Shields, brigade commander, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

According to Kimble, the 172nd BSB was on a routine supply convoy to Combat Out-Post Rawah when a vehicle in the convoy was struck by an Improvised Explosive Device. Spc. Dustin Harris, 172nd BSB, had been severely injured, and Kimble was the first medic on the scene.

“We had left at approximately 6 a.m., and after a couple hours of driving the lead gun truck had been hit by an IED,” said Kimble. “I was in the forth truck back and as soon as I saw the IED go off I grabbed my aid bag.”

All of her training then kicked in. She jumped out of the truck as it was coming up to the scene. Kimble only noticed one head injury. She calmed herself and began working on Harris.

“It was scary watching the IED blast,” said Kimble. “All of my training came back to me very quickly and I took control of the situation. Its seemed like everything around me stopped and I was focused on Spc. Harris.”

According to Maj. Michael Smith, BSMC commander, Kimble personifies what the Soldier medic is all about. She is an excellent Soldier and an excellent medic, and maintains a perfect combination of the two skills. Kimble can hold her own out on the battle field, and she can also step up and provide medical care to Soldiers in timely need.

“Kimble took control of the situation immediately,” said Smith. “She gave guidance and directions to everyone around, and told everybody around what to do to help her provide medical care.”


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