WMU student, Iraq war vet gets medals

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) - Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) on Wednesday presented service medals to Iraq war veteran Chadwick L. "Chad" Dillon for his service in the Michigan Army National Guard.

Dillon, 25, is currently a senior political science major at Western Michigan University.

He joined the Michigan Army National Guard in December 2004 and completed his service in December 2010. During his time of service, he served as an infantryman during Operation Iraqi Freedom from January 2008 to January 2009, providing convoy security in southern Iraq.

Upton presented Dillon with the Army Good Conduct Medal; the National Defense Service Medal; the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with an "M" device for mobilization); the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal; the Army Service Ribbon; the Driver and Mechanic Badge (with Driver "W" Bar for wheeled vehicles); the Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal; the Global War on Terror Service Medal; and the Iraq Campaign Medal with one bronze service star.

"It is a great honor to recognize Chad Dillon for his exemplary service to our country," Upton said in a news release. "Chad is a remarkable young man, belonging to the first generation of brave American veterans to answer our nation's call in a post-September 11th world. We are forever indebted to our courageous warriors like Chad Dillon for their countless sacrifices to keep our nation safe and secure."