(62nd AW PA) - Technical Sgts. Steven Ostrander and Robert Fitzpatrick, both assigned to the 62nd Security Forces Squadron, received Bronze Star medals Aug. 19 for their leadership, forward thinking and technical knowledge during their deployments supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"These men are heroes," said Col. Kenny Weldon, 62nd Mission Support Group commander, while presenting the two airmen with their medals. "Their courageous efforts represent why we are the best Air Force in the world."

The Bronze Star is the fourth highest combat medal and the ninth highest overall medal that can be awarded to any armed servicemember.

According to Tech. Sgt. Nick Roberts, 62nd Security Forces Squadron flight chief, these airmen have done more than enough to earn the medal.

"I've worked with both of them for at least five years," said Roberts. "They are fantastic noncommissioned officers, and I have always been positive they would earn this medal due to the outstanding things they've accomplished."

Fitzpatrick has deployed ten times during his 16 years of service. He most recently deployed as the tactical operations center battle noncommissioned officer, Detachment 2, 732nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron in Baghdad, Iraq, from October 2009 to July 2010.

"I went there and did my job," said Fitzpatrick. "I wasn't expecting to come back and receive this. I feel nothing but honored."

While deployed, Fitzpatrick directed more than 450 outside the wire combat missions and enabled teams to investigate 21 magnetically attached improvised explosive device sites. His leadership and knowledge contributed to the unit's success in developing a more competent and legitimate police force for the Iraqi people.

Like his counterpart, Ostrander has recently returned from deployment to surprising news of this medal being awarded.

"If it were up to me, I would give one of these medals to everyone in my unit," said Ostrander. "Without them, and the support of my family, I wouldn't have been able to do what I did."

Ostrander volunteered for deployment as a squad leader, bravo flight, Det. 3, 732nd ESFS, Baghdad, Iraq, from August 2009 to July 2010.

While deployed, Ostrander led his 18 airmen, soldiers and interpreters on more than 70 combat missions covering 1,800 miles. He taught more than 50 Iraqi police officers such topics as crime scene investigation, close quarters combat and team movement techniques.

"You two eared this," Weldon said. "Your nation is thankful for what you've done."