Meritorious Service Decorations - Military Division
Meritorious Service Medal
Awarded on: 2009-05-29
Invested on: 2009-11-13
Warrant Officer Buchanan was deployed to Afghanistan with an operational mentoring and liaison team, from February to August 2008. Working from both the command post and while deployed forward, he coordinated precision tactical effects that supported Afghan and coalition combat operations. On numerous occasions, his timely application of precision fires proved successful, with devastating effects on the insurgents’ ability to continue fighting, and without endangering friendly forces. Warrant Officer Buchanan’s strong mission focus and professionalism enhanced operational success in the Zharey district.