A Hero's Valor: The Extraordinary Life and Bravery of Earl D. Plumlee

Earl D. Plumlee, born on April 6, 1980, is a retired master sergeant in the United States Army renowned for his extraordinary bravery. His heroic actions during an attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni in Afghanistan on August 28, 2013, earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Joe Biden on December 16, 2021. Plumlee’s story is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his comrades and country.

Early Life and Struggles: Earl Plumlee's early life set the foundation for his remarkable military career. Growing up, Plumlee faced various challenges that tested his resolve and shaped his character. These formative years instilled in him a sense of duty and a desire to serve his country, eventually leading him to enlist in the United States Army.

Military Enlistment and Heroics: Plumlee's military journey began with his enlistment in the U.S. Army, where he quickly distinguished himself as a dedicated and capable soldier. Assigned to Charlie Company, 4th Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), Plumlee's skills and leadership were evident. His dedication to his unit and mission was unwavering, and his bravery was put to the ultimate test during the attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni.

Defining Moment: On August 28, 2013, Forward Operating Base Ghazni came under a fierce attack. A massive explosion breached the base’s perimeter, and ten insurgents, disguised in Afghan National Army uniforms and armed with suicide vests, poured through the gap. Plumlee, serving as a weapons sergeant, immediately sprang into action. He and five other special operations soldiers, including Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Busic and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Mark Colbert, mounted vehicles and raced toward the breach.

Under heavy enemy fire, Plumlee used his body to shield his driver and exited the vehicle, engaging an insurgent just 15 meters away with his pistol. Displaying remarkable bravery, he advanced towards the enemy without cover, engaging multiple insurgents and killing two. Despite being wounded by a detonating suicide vest, Plumlee continued to fight, joining a small group of American and coalition soldiers to counterattack the infiltrators.

In the chaos, Plumlee carried the mortally wounded Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis to safety and rendered first aid. His actions were instrumental in securing the base and preventing further casualties, showcasing his extraordinary heroism and dedication.

Post-War Life and Career: Following his heroic actions in Afghanistan, Plumlee continued his service in the U.S. Army, further cementing his legacy as a dedicated and courageous soldier. His commitment to his comrades and mission remained steadfast, and he served as a source of inspiration to those around him. Eventually retiring as a master sergeant, Plumlee's post-war life has been marked by his advocacy for veterans and his involvement in various initiatives supporting military personnel.

Military Awards and Decorations: Earl D. Plumlee's valor and service have been recognized with numerous military awards and decorations, including:

  • Medal of Honor: Awarded for his actions during the attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni on August 28, 2013.
  • Silver Star: For gallantry in action during the same attack.
  • Bronze Star
  • Purple Heart
  • Meritorious Service Medal
  • Army Achievement Medal
  • Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a gold star
  • Combat Action Ribbon
  • Army Good Conduct Medal (5 awards)
  • Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
  • Meritorious Unit Commendation with a bronze oak leaf cluster
  • Navy Unit Commendation with a bronze service star
  • Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
  • Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal with a bronze service star
  • National Defense Service Medal
  • Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
  • Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a bronze campaign star
  • Iraq Campaign Medal with two bronze campaign stars
  • Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
  • Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
  • Armed Forces Reserve Medal with "M" device
  • NCO Professional Development Ribbon with bronze award numeral 4
  • Army Service Ribbon
  • Army Overseas Service Ribbon
  • Navy and Marine Corps Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with four campaign stars
  • NATO Medal for ex-Yugoslavia

Additionally, Plumlee has been awarded several badges and insignias, including the Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Basic Parachutist Badge with 1st Special Forces Group background trimming, Military Freefall Parachutist Badge, Marine Corps Combatant Diver Insignia, Honduran Parachutist Badge, Special Forces Tab, 1st Special Forces Command Combat Service Identification Badge, United States Army Special Forces Distinctive Unit Insignia, five Overseas Service Bars, and seven service stripes.

Conclusion: Earl D. Plumlee's story is a testament to the extraordinary courage and dedication of those who serve in the United States military. His actions during the attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni exemplify the highest standards of bravery and selflessness. As a Medal of Honor recipient, Plumlee's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of soldiers and civilians alike, reminding us of the incredible sacrifices made by our servicemen and women in the pursuit of freedom and security.

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