CDS 14 Officer Receives Bronze Star

Niznik received the medal for meritorious service while serving as the Deputy Officer in Charge of the 354th Civil Affairs Brigade, a component of the Army Special Forces assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division in Baghdad, Iraq.

The Bronze Star is a United States Armed Forces individual military decoration which may be awarded for bravery, acts of valor or meritorious service. To be eligible for the Bronze Star Medal, a military member must be receiving hostile fire/imminent danger pay during the event for which the medal is to be awarded.

As the Transportation coordinator, Niznik was in charge of tracking and maintaining military equipment, vehicles and weapons, as well as electronic upgrades and armor upgrades.

He also coordinated body armor shipments and the dispersion of medical supplies. Niznik was also the pay agent for the Commander Emergency Response Program. He provided the funds to Iraqi contractors to build businesses, schools and training for the airport.

"It is such an honor to receive the bronze star and I'm honored my command considered me for it," said Niznik, "But I couldn't have received it without the incredible hard work of the enlisted servicemembers who worked for me. They were the most highly decorated section of the brigade, and it was a privilege to work with them."

Niznik is originally from Hatfield, Penn. He attended Maine Maritime Academy and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nautical Science and a Third Mate's License (unlimited tonnage any ocean) in May, 1997.

After graduation Niznik attended Surface Warfare Officer's School in Newport, R.I., and reported to USS Saipan in December 1997 to serve as First Division Officer. In February, 1999 Niznik reported to USS Klakring and served as Auxiliaries Officer. In 2001, he reported to Naval Postgraduate School in Monterrey, Calif., and earned his Master of Arts degree in National Security Affairs in June 2003.

Afterwards, Niznik reported to Surface Warfare Deparment Head School and upon completion he reported to USS Underwood as Chief Engineering Officer. He then went on for further training at Aegis Training and Readiness School in Dahlgren, Va. in November 2005.

Niznik reported to Destroyer Squadron 14 for preparations for an Individual Augmentation in lieu of a second department head tour. He reported to Fort Jackson, S.C. for IA training in January 2006.

Niznik served in Iraq from April to December 2006.