Major Select L. Michael Stansberry Received Bronze Star With Valor
Major Select L. Michael Stansberry Received Bronze Star With Valor
BV approved as BV by LTGEN Thomas D Waldhauser on March 16, 2011.
For heroic service in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as the Commanding Officer, Company E, 2d Battalion, 6th Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, 1st Marine Division (Forward), I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Afghanistan, from 19 May 2010 to 27 December 2010 in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. In May 2010, Captain Stansberry assumed control over a highly kinetic area that was a Taliban stronghold where the enemy had firm control of the physical and human terrain. During this period, he led his company in more than 500 combat patrols, 60 of which were in direct contact with enemy forces. He also conducted more than 100 key leader engagements, which denied the enemy freedom of movement. As a result of this success, he was able to increase security, which allowed the establishment of a school, the building of a bazaar, and the initiation of the village auxiliary program. He took full advantage of his Commanders Emergency Response Program, injecting $150,000 into the economy, awarding 52 contracts and completing 50 projects while improving the overall quality of life for the people. On 29 July 2010, he led the partnered Operation SEMINOLE WIND that cleared out enemy forces in his area of operations and improved the level of support for coalition forces among the citizens of Marjah. He coordinated four direct fire engagements a successfully deconflicted air assets and his assigned forces in order to ensure no friendly or civilian causalities. By his extraordinary guidance, zealous initiative, and total dedication to duty, Captain Stansberry reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Michael and his wife, Megan, two daughters, Maili and Hallee, live in Jacksonville, N.C. He is the son of Ron and Brenda Stansberry of Edina, Mo. Grandparents are Helen and the late Leslie (Jake) Karhoff of Edina; Mary and the late Richard Stansberry of Kirksville, MO; great-grandmother Mary Reeves of Brashear.
