WASHINGTON (November 7, 2011)— This weekend in Richmond, Congressman Ben Chandler presented Sergeant First Class Timothy McClish of Jessamine County with a Bronze Star for his service during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

“To get a medal or token from the U.S. military you have to go above and beyond the call of duty,” Chandler said. “Sergeant McClish displayed extraordinary composure under one of the most stressful circumstances imaginable, and his courageous service to his country deserves to be recognized. I thank him and all members of the armed forces for all they do and sacrifice for our freedoms.”
   
A native of Nicholasville, Ky., Sgt. McClish was serving as Senior Officer Mentor for an Afghan National Army unit when he heroically distinguished himself during a 4-hour long battle at Tizney, Afghanistan in May 2006. Upon approaching the village, Sgt. McClish and his unit began to take heavy fire from Taliban forces. He ordered the vehicles in his unit to a safe location and directed his men to dismount so they could engage the enemy. Despite mortar fire falling around him, Sgt. McClish maintained control of his unit and defeated all Taliban while ensuring the safety of many women, children, and elderly Afghans living in the village.
   
Sgt. McClish received the Bronze Star at an event in Richmond on Saturday while surrounded by his family, friends, and members of his Kentucky National Guard battalion. The Bronze Star is one of the highest honors issued by the military and is awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement or service.

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