Published: July 16, 2008 03:27 pm      

Ada soldier receives medal for heroism

Ada — Ada native and United States Army Specialist Beau B. Jordan was awarded the Soldier’s Medal during a ceremony at the Ada National Guard Armory Tuesday.

Major General Harry M. Wyatt pinned the medal on Jordan while his fellow soldiers and proud family looked on. The medal was awarded for heroism.

On March 15, 2007, Jordan was stationed in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. While on patrol in 1st Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 180th Infantry, attached to the 201st Regional Security Assistance Command-Central, Jordan disregarded his own safety and saved two fellow service members.

While attempting to cross the Alishang River at night, the two U.S. Marines were sucked under the water because of a strong current.

“We were wearing full gear,” Jordan said. “Slings, backpacks, body vests ... everything we were issued we had on our ‘bones’.”

The soldiers were unable to swim or stay above water because of the weight. Jordan rushed into the river and, while fighting the strong current himself, pulled the two marines to safety.

Jordan, an Ada High graduate, said he is proud to serve his country and his three years in the Oklahoma National Guard.

“I’m very happy that my family is proud of me and that I received this medal and that the Oklahoma National Guard is proud of me,” Jordan said.