Master Sgt. Blair A. Baerny (right), a pararescueman

Master Sgt. Blair A. Baerny (right), a pararescueman for the 123rd Airlift Special Tactics Squadron, receives the Bronze Star Medal from Col. David Mounkes, commander of the 123rd Airlift Wing, at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 17, 2018. Baerny distinguished himself for meritorious service with his participation in Operation Freedom’s Sentinel from Aug. 22 to Nov. 15, 2015. His leadership ensured effective combat search and rescue coverage for all special operations assets throughout Afghanistan, mitigating risk and maintaining the safety of more than 1,600 personnel. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Joshua Horton)