Sgt.
Gagliano's unit was conducting a
reconnaissance patrol on January 7,
2006, when insurgents attacked using
small-arms fire, severely injuring
two of the Marines. Gagliano could
not pinpoint the exact location of
the assault, yet immediately
directed his squad to return fire in
the direction of the enemies as he
threw a smoke grenade to help
conceal the group.
Another
unit member was shot as he attempted
to retrieve one of the fallen
Marines. Gagliano had one team
continue to lay down suppressive
fire as he led another team into the
street to recover the wounded
Marines on three separate occasions.
Despite the insurgents' heavy
fire, Gagliano eventually got his
team, including the three
casualties, to a safer location. He
then set up a casualty collection
point for the medical evacuation
team, and helped direct the aiding
Coalition forces to the suspected
enemy position.
For his
efforts, Gagliano received the
Bronze Star Medal on September 27,
2006. |