On Dec. 27, 2008, Michael Harrington, 28th Infantry Division, Pennsylvania Army National Guard, was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Ramadi, Iraq, on Sept. 19, 2005.

Spc. Harrington volunteered for a Quick Response Force (QRF) mission in response to an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack that killed three from his platoon. On the way, the HMMWV carrying Spc. Harrington and nine other Soldiers struck an IED, tearing off its front end. After checking the others for injuries, Spc. Harrington dismounted and began engaging enemy positions. Connecting a tow bar to the disabled vehicle, Spc. Harrington’s platoon sergeant drove the other HMMWV away from enemy fire, only to be hit by another IED. Spc. Harrington then assisted the medic in providing first aid to the wounded Non-Commissioned Officer.

With neither transport nor communication, Spc. Harrington grabbed the only remaining radio from his kit bag and moved to an exposed location to make contact with his higher headquarters. Spc. Harrington and the QRF held their ground until an M113 troop carrier recovered them. After returning to camp, Spc. Harrington went back again to assist in sweeping the area for insurgents.

For his gallantry in action, Spc. Harrington is this week’s Warrior-Soldier.