On March 29, 2009, Cpl. Jonathan R. Ayers was awarded posthumously the Silver Star for his actions in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, on July 13, 2008.
In a predawn raid, 200 Taliban insurgents struck at Combat Outpost Kahler, near Wanat, a village in the rugged foothills of the Hindu Kush. Cpl. Ayer picked up an M-240 machine gun and laid down continuous fire. He drew heavy enemy small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire in return. A round grazed his helmet and knocked him back, but the 24-year-old native from Snellville, Ga., regained his ground and resumed firing against a determined enemy. Those who saw him said, “He just kept rocking on that 240.” He remained in contact with the enemy until a bullet struck him. He was among nine U.S. Soldiers who died that day, but the enemy suffered at least 100 killed or wounded. Cpl. Ayers’ actions contributed to keeping the enemy from advancing on his unit’s command outpost.
For his gallantry in action, Cpl. Ayers is this week’s Warrior-Soldier.
Looking forward to having his story on They Have Names. What an amazing Hero.