MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- During the current Global War on Terrorism, their has never been a more important time to recognize leadership and support Marines while they protect and defend the freedoms that we hold dear.
Captain John L. Medeiros, Jr. and Sgt. Nathan W. Owens of 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion, 2nd Marine Division were awarded the Navy Marine Corps Association Leadership Award Dec. 12.
The Navy Marine Corps Association Leadership Award is a reflection of their leadership and overall service. While with 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion they demonstrated courage, resourcefulness, perseverance and concern for the well being of the Corps and other Marines.
While deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Medeiros’ company performed well in combat, which is a direct reflection of his leadership and how he allowed his subordinate leaders to accomplish their missions.
Owens excelled in leadership by properly training, equipping and developing unit assault amphibious vehicle mechanics to ensure the success of every combat mission while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
The Navy and Marine Corps Association sponsors leadership awards. Marines choose other Marines who they think show outstanding performance. They’re selected by their peers for being leaders in their respective communities. These leaders exercise team-building skills and are a most-valued members of the Marine Corps and country, especially during the current war on terror.
“Having both a captain and a sergeant in our battalion win this award is incredible,” said Lt. Col. Michael L. Kuhn, the battalion’s commander. “Both excelled in combat. Both are phenomenal Marines and deserve to recognized by their peers.”
Medeiros was also awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation for his actions while deployed to Iraq. While serving as the commanding officer of Company D in Iraq from September 2005 to February 2005, Medeiros led his company in operations to capture, eliminate and deny sanctuary to enemy forces.
“Captain Medeiros is the most respected company grade officer in the battalion,” said Lt Timothy A. Sparks, the battalion adjutant. “He best exemplifies traits sought in a Marine officer and reflect the leadership spirit sought by the United States Marine Corps.”
Both Medeiros and Owens remain with the battalion and continue to lead by example.