ARLINGTON, Va. – The Marine Corps paid tribute to one of its own Tuesday at the Iwo Jima Memorial. Ray Mabus, Secretary of the Navy, gave the department’s highest award for valor to Gunnery Sergeant Brian Blonder.
“For his actions, Gunny Blonder will be remembered by generations of marines. Young recruits will learn his name,” said Secretary Mabus told a gathering that included Blonder’s family and fellow Marines.
Blonder received the honor in recognition of his actions August 8, 2008 during the battle of Shewan in Afghanistan. During the firefight, Blonder led his platoon through a series of ambushes, killed enemy insurgents and helped destroy an explosives manufacturing plant after being injured by a roadside bomb.
Despite the personal recognition, Blonder said that the credit really goes to his entire platoon for their actions that day.
“I’m glad to see my platoon was recognized for what they did that day in August,” said Blonder. “And that’s what this medal is for. It’s not about me. I wear it for those marines.”
And Blonder’s fellow marines had nothing but praise for him in return. Many cited his skills as not only a leader but as someone willing to work with others.
“He was always open to ideas or suggestions about what it is we thought we needed to do,” said Gunnery Sergeant Garrett Dean.
To receive the Navy Cross, an individual must commit an act of heroism at great risk to themselves. It is limited to actions that take place during combat.
The Navy Cross was established by Congress in 1919. It is normally awarded to members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard but can be given to all branches of the military as well as foreign military members.
For now, Blonder is off the battlefield. He was assigned to work in the Marine Corps headquarters in D.C. in June of 2010. He currently serves as the Reconnaissance MOS Specialist.