 |
| News > 106th Defender Recognized for his Outstanding Service in Afghanistan |
|
|
| |
| Photos | |
 |
Staff Sgt. Rudolph Lonk, a Cutchogue resident and 106th Rescue Wing member, with General John Allen, commander of Coalition Forces in Afghanistan.
|
Download HiRes
|
|
|
|
106th Defender Recognized for his Outstanding Service in Afghanistan
Posted 9/17/2012 Updated 9/17/2012
Email story
Print story
by 106th Public Affairs
106th Rescue Wing
9/17/2012 - September 15, 2012 -- WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY - The International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan awarded 106th Security Forces Squadron Defender Staff Sgt. Rudolf W. Lonk the Joint Service Commendation Medal for his service in Afghanistan, January through July 2012.
According to U.S. Army Major General Robert P. Ashley, Director of the ISAF in Afghanistan, Sgt. Lonk, upon arriving, immediately took over the general's personal security detachment (PSD). In this role, Staff Sgt Lonk prepared and led daily missions outside the wire (off-base), where he coordinated the security and movement of key leaders in Kabul, provided security for other mission essential personnel movements, and resupplied pickups.
"Sgt. Lonk also built a legacy of professionalism and competence..."
General Ashley continued. Sgt. Lonk trained four new drivers through a rigorous, hands-on program that Lonk devised, which included 230 driving hours, pre-mission security preparation, and combatives.
Additionally, Sgt. Lonk was the ISAF Headquarters, non-commissioned officer in charge (NCOIC) of the security for the sensitive compartmentalized information facilities (SCIF). In this position, he verified, cleared and registered over 1,700 personnel for access into these facilities. He also took part in a large scale inventory effort, accounting for 567 pieces of equipment and supplies, ensuring complete accounting accuracy.
"Under his leadership, my personal security detachment maintained a spotless record of zero security or safety incidents. Sgt Lonk demonstrated professionalism and leadership during a trying time in our Afghan campaign; truly a job well done," said General Ashley.
Sgt. Lonk said, returning wasn't difficult, but there was a period of adjustment. "It took some time easing back into being with the family.
They'd become very independent while I was gone. My son, who was going to
college while I was gone was a huge help."
Major Martinez, the 106th security forces squadron commander, said that 'General Ashley's comments are a testament to the character of Sgt. Lonk, and our entire unit is proud of Rudy and his accomplishments.' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
