Three U.S. Army Soldiers were recently awarded for their support to the Polish Armed Forces during combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan during a ceremony at the Polish Embassy in Washington D.C. 

Director of Operations for the U.S. Army Reserve, Maj. Gen. Joseph Lestorti, represented the Army during the ceremony, which was held on March 12, 2025.  “We are honored by the recognition given to these incredible warfighters,” he said. “In today’s uncertain global environment, we will achieve peace through strength with our allies and partners as combat multipliers.”

The awards, presented by the Polish Head of Mission to the United States, Mr. Bogdan Klich, and the Polish Defense Attaché, Major General Krzysztof Nolbert, are as follows:

• The Silver Medal of the Polish Armed Forces was awarded to Lt. Col. David Eckenrode (NJ ARNG) for support provided to the Polish Armed Forces during Operation Inherent Resolve in 2024.
• The Star of Afghanistan was awarded to Captain Tyler Lightfoot (USA) for support provided to combined U.S.-Polish training engagement teams during Operation Freedom’s Sentinel in 2017.
• The Star of Afghanistan was awarded to Captain Adam Maisel (USAR) for support provided to the Polish Armed Forces Operation Freedom’s Sentinel in 2015.