Staff Sergeant Escamilla received the Bronze Star Medal with combat for heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy as Tank Commander, 1st Platoon, Company C; Tank Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 1; 1st Marine Division; 1 Marine Expeditionary Force in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.
While in Al Fallujah, Iraq, he led the tank section into an immediate counterattack as he responded to a request from an outnumbered infantry platoon under heavy enemy fire. Braving this intense enemy fire, including numerous rock-propelled grenades and a large improvised explosive device that was detonated next to his tank, Sergeant Escamilla continued to surge forward through the narrow city streets and alleyways to reach the embattled platoon while engaging enemy insurgents with main gun and machine gun fire. Upon reaching the Platoon, he destroyed numerous enemy positions and insurgents while accompanying the retrograding infantry platoon.
After the entire infantry platoon had returned to friendly positions, he directed the tank section to return to the attack and to continue to engage the enemy under heavy fire until ordered to pull back by the Infantry Company Commander to allow the use of supporting arms. His bold leadership and decisive actions saved the lives of many Marines.
Through his zealous initiative, courageous actions and exceptional dedication to duty, Sergeant Escamilla upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Crops and the United States Naval Service. SSgt Escamilla now serves as a USMC recruiter and is a role model for all who encounter him.
As the nation’s largest systems integrator for defense, aerospace and government customers, Lockheed Martin is keenly aware of the unique importance of its customers’ missions. Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. For more information logo onto www.lockheedmartin.com.
Hero Kids Summer Camp: In an effort to provide a network of support and friendship for boys and girls of military families during this difficult time, the USO of Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey (Liberty USO) has partnered with Pennsylvania National Guard to form the Hero Kids Summer Camp from June 17 -22. Last summer, 108 campers, ages 8-12,spent the week at Camp Kenbrook near Lebanon, Pa. to share their feelings and be uplifted with fun activities such as hiking, archery, arts and crafts, and various team-building and skill-building games. The camp is free of charge for the families of the campers. CLICK HERE for more information.
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A Soldier Story Podcasts
Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla - Part 1 In the 1st installment of May's A Soldier's story, Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla sits down with Anthony Mazzarelli and talks about his background and his decision to join the Marines.
Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla-Part 2 In the 2nd installment of May's A Soldier's story, Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla sits down with Anthony Mazzarelli and talks about one fateful day in Fallujah.
Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla-Part 3 In the 3rd installment of May's A Soldier's story, Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla sits down with Anthony Mazzarelli and talks about daily life in Iraq.
Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla-Part 4 In the Final installment of May's A Soldier's story, Staff Sergeant Eddie Escamilla sits down with Anthony Mazzarelli and takes on the broader issues including what service means to him.
As the nation’s largest systems integrator for defense, aerospace and government customers, Lockheed Martin is keenly aware of the unique importance of its customers’ missions. Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. For more information logo onto 
Hero Kids Summer Camp: In an effort to provide a network of support and friendship for boys and girls of military families during this difficult time, the USO of Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey (Liberty USO) has partnered with Pennsylvania National Guard to form the Hero Kids Summer Camp from June 17 -22. Last summer, 108 campers, ages 8-12,spent the week at Camp Kenbrook near Lebanon, Pa. to share their feelings and be uplifted with fun activities such as hiking, archery, arts and crafts, and various team-building and skill-building games. The camp is free of charge for the families of the campers. 
