Last modified Wed., February 18, 2009 - 05:24 PM
Originally created Thursday, February 19, 2009

Bronze Star For '44'

By Lt.j.g. Adam R. Shreders , HSL-44 PAO

Chief Naval Air Crewman Roland Dupras of HSL-44 was awarded both the Bronze Star and Navy Commendation Medal at squadron quarters on Feb. 3, after returning from a 280-day deployment to Iraq.

Dupras served with both the 1st Calvary and the 82nd Airborne Divisions as the Electronics Warfare Officer, responsible for the jamming of roadside Improvised Explosive Devices.

He was awarded the Bronze Star for valiantly volunteering for more than 50 combat patrols, (several of which encountered direct enemy resistance), and was instrumental in securing and sending initial situation reports after his unit was hit by a road side bomb.

He was also awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for meritorious service as the HSL-44 Lead Petty Officer and Training Chief. His training was instrumental in HSL-44 Aircrewman receiving outstanding marks during the past two Search and Rescue Unit Evaluations.