05APR2003: Serving as a tank commander with A/1-64 Armor during the invasion of Iraq in 2003, SSG Stevon Booker and his unit were tasked with conducting a raid to test the remaining enemy defenses. The attack, later known as the "Thunder Run" began south of Baghdad with aims of moving through main roads until they reached the newly secured airport. SSG Booker and his crew were in the midst of this operation when they were engaged on multiple sides by enemy small arms and RPG fire. Booker opened the hatch and began firing his mounted machine gun at the numerous dismounted enemy elements at close range. Before long, his machine gun malfunctioned as the enemy forces pushed closer. Without hesitation, SSG Booker crawled out of his hatch, laid on top of the tank and began engaging targets with his rifle. As enemy elements attempted to maneuver into striking position, SSG Booker destroyed one after the other, helping to protect his column of tanks. As the column continued forward, SSG Booker remained in the prone position, completely exposed to the steady stream of enemy fire in order to ensure any dismounted targets were destroyed. After fighting this way for five miles, SSG Stevon Booker was struck and killed by enemy fire but his heroic act helped to ensure the armored element was able to complete the raid and link up with friendly units at the airport. For his actions that day, SSG Stevon Booker would be awarded, posthumously, the Distinguished Service Cross.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related