On December 10, 2013, deep in the heart of Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Master Sergeant (at the time) Ivan Ruiz, an Air Force Pararescueman, was embedded with an Army Special Forces team and Afghan Commandos during a daring raid in hostile territory.

After a close-quarters gunfight, Ruiz and two teammates became isolated from the rest of the force. Suddenly caught in a vicious enemy crossfire, his comrades were severely wounded and lay exposed under a hail of gunfire and grenades.

Refusing to seek cover or withdraw, MSgt Ruiz stood alone in the open, drawing fire to protect his wounded teammates. Under intense enemy pressure, he engaged the enemy, treated the wounded, and held his ground until reinforcements could arrive. Once they did, Ruiz rushed to drag his teammates to cover and immediately administered lifesaving care—all while under direct enemy fire.

His actions saved lives and helped eliminate 11 enemy fighters. For his extraordinary heroism and selfless bravery, Master Sergeant Ivan Ruiz was awarded the Air Force Cross—the second-highest award for valor in the U.S. Air Force.

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