James Witkowski
Sergeant, U.S. Army

On 26 October 2005, then-Sergeant James Witkowski was serving with the 729th Transportation Company while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

On that date, SGT Witkowski’s unit was engaged in combat action against anti-Coalition forces when his convoy encountered a complex attack. Without regard for his own life, SGT Witkowski provided suppressive fire on the enemy and absorbed the full shock of a hand grenade thrown at his gun truck, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. SGT Witkowski’s selfless, courageous actions that day earned him, at the cost of his life, the U.S. Army's third highest award for valor, the Silver Star Medal.

Medals, Awards and Badges

Silver Star Medal
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with Bronze Star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army NCO Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Army Overseas Service Ribbon
Combat Action Badge

Silver Star Medal Citation

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant James Witkowski, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 729th Transportation Company, during a combat logistics convoy battle in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, near Ashraf, Iraq, on 26 October 2005. Sergeant Witkowski is cited for heroic action against anti-Coalition forces when his convoy encountered a complex attack. Without regard for his own life, he provided suppressive fire on the enemy and absorbed the full shock of a hand grenade thrown at his gun truck, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. His supreme sacrifice and bravery reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Burial

Sergeant James Witkowski is buried at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix, Maricopa County, AZ, in Section 54, Site 628.

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/13658043/james-witkowski