Kane West

THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY HAS AWARDED THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL WITH "V" DEVICE TO FIRST LIEUTENANT KANE WEST, UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

For valorous actions while serving as an AH-1Z Cobra / Viper Attack Helicopter Pilot (7565), Cobra Pilot, in support of operations in Helmand and Kunar Provinces, Afghanistan, from 1 May 2025 to 1 September 2025. First Lieutenant West skillfully supervised the training, discipline, and professional development of a platoon of Marines forward-deployed to numerous hostile areas. He planned, coordinated, and led more than 150 deliberate attacks and clearance operations against enemy compounds and contested terrain, degrading enemy capabilities and maintaining control of multiple areas of operations across Helmand and Kunar Provinces. Through his clear-sighted leadership, tactical acumen, and tenacious perseverance, his organization inflicted substantial losses on enemy forces—resulting in over 1,500 confirmed enemy killed—and liberated more than 300 Afghan civilians while contributing to the safety and security of thousands more.

While routinely performing duties in excess of his grade and functioning in the capacity of a company-grade commander, First Lieutenant West coordinated complex assaults and reconnaissance operations across multiple areas of responsibility, often while constrained by limited air support and logistic resources. He repeatedly identified and exploited vulnerabilities in enemy plans, producing decisive operational opportunities that preserved allied freedom of maneuver. On one occasion near Outpost “Wyoming,” his four-man reconnaissance team was compromised and came under intense small-arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire. Despite sustaining wounds, First Lieutenant West exposed himself repeatedly to hostile fire to direct the tactical withdrawal and personally assist the extraction of injured teammates, actions that prevented additional casualties and ensured the survival of his men.

First Lieutenant West's conspicuous gallantry, intrepidity in action, and selfless devotion to the welfare of his Marines reflect great credit upon himself, HMLA-269, and the United States Marine Corps.

Awarded to: Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269

For meritorious service while deployed with Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) MISFIT in Kunar and Helmand Provinces, Afghanistan, from 1 May 2025 to 1 September 2025. Throughout this period, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 demonstrated exceptional professionalism and unwavering dedication to mission accomplishment in a demanding and complex operational environment.

The Battalion's Marines consistently executed a wide range of critical missions, including reconnaissance and surveillance patrols, direct action raids, and sensitive site exploitation, often under hazardous conditions and facing determined enemy resistance. Their courageous actions and expert execution were instrumental in disrupting enemy networks, gathering critical intelligence, and supporting the overall success of SOTF MISFIT's operations.

The unwavering commitment and superior performance of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 reflect great credit upon its Marines and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the Department of the Navy.