The Air Force has awarded a second Bronze Star medal to SMSgt. Ken Pettibone, an explosive ordnance disposal technician at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, for his actions while deployed for more than a year to Iraq—his fifth deployment to Southwest Asia. This time, Pettibone led a weapons intelligence team at forward operating bases, investigating the aftermath of improvised explosive devices. (Spangdahlem report by SMSgt. Cheryl Toner)
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.