News | June 20, 2019

Beale Airman earns Bronze Star

By Senior Airman Tristan D. Viglianco 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs

Master Sgt. John Brahm, 69th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Det. 1 section chief, network operations, was presented a Bronze Star Medal June 19, 2019 for his meritorious achievement while deployed to Forward Operating Base O-Cobb, Kabul, Afghanistan.

During his deployment, Brahm served as the 438th Air Expeditionary Wing cyberspace operations superintendent from Jan. 28, 2018 to Jan. 24, 2019.

“I travelled all over Afghanistan doing communication support for any advisors, which were out in the field,” said Brahm. “Everyday we were transiting in our full kit going to our FOB and all of the advising we do is out on afghan bases. We went out to train, assist, and advise our Afghan partners.”

Brahm was also responsible for ensuring the communication equipment at various bases was working properly, which required a lot of travel. Since Brahm worked in a joint unit with partners from countries who had travel restrictions most of the workload fell on him.

“I had to do everything because I had a small shop,” said Brahm. “Most of the time is was just me, so I would find another American who would go with me to help do comm stuff.”

In addition to travelling outside the wire regularly for communication support, Brahm also led 35 force protection missions.

“I was going out, coordinating and getting a few bodies and they would come with us,” said Brahm. “Then I would lead that team out.”

Col. Andrew Clark, 9th Reconnaissance Wing commander, presented the Bronze Star to Brahm and praised him for his exemplary service.

“Master Sergeant Brahm’s contribution to our nation’s defense is a fantastic example of the ideals, the sacrifice, and the dedication required to be the best Air Force in the world,” said Clark. “I’m incredibly proud to stand before you today and it’s truly an honor to pin this Bronze Star to your chest.”

Brahm was joined at the ceremony by family and friends and he credits them with providing a support system allowing him to not worry while overseas.

“They are awesome,” said Brahm. “I honestly couldn’t have done it without them.”