D-M Airman is recognized for his work overseas

  • Published
  • By SrA Josh Slavin
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Master Sgt. Bruce Archer, 355th Security Forces Squadron defender, was presented the bronze star for his work in Afghanistan, Jan. 10.

Archer spent a year in Afghanistan working as the sole advisor for the Afghan Security Forces Company Commander, six Afghan Technical school instructors and over 100 security forces personnel.

Having been a prior instructor at the security forces technical school at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, Archer was able draw from previous experiences to help him overcome the challenges he faced.

"It was definitely an advantage for me to have that teaching experience while I was over there," Archer said. "In fact, it was actually a requirement for the position I was holding."

Archer was brought in to teach the Aghan instructors the revamped 2,000 page course curriculum. He taught them how to teach and lead the courses so that eventually the Afghan Air Force would be able to train their own troops.

During his year in Afghanistan, Archer also led a variety of different missions such as outside the wire movements within the Kabul area. He oversaw more than 100 combat zone convoy movements as well as the qualification training of more than 40 personnel in convoy operations.

Upon his return, Archer was presented the bronze star by Col. Kevin Blanchard, 355th Fighter Wing commander, in front of his peers and coworkers at a 355th MSG awards Ceremony.

"It's very humbling and it feels good to be recognized for the work that was done over there," Archer said. "Even though only a few of us received medals it was a group effort while we were there. This wouldn't have been possible without the help of others."