Six Soldiers Honored for Heroism in Stopping Fort Stewart Gunman

In a remarkable display of courage, six unarmed soldiers confronted and subdued a gunman during a shooting incident at Fort Stewart on Wednesday. Their swift and decisive actions have earned them recognition as heroes, with awards bestowed for their lifesaving efforts.

In a shocking turn of events, Sgt. Quornelius Radford, 28, discharged his firearm while serving as an automated logistical specialist with the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, injuring five of his comrades. In a swift and decisive action, Master Sgt. Justin Thomas and Sgt. Aaron Turner quickly brought Radford under control, as additional soldiers hurried to assist the wounded.

In a dramatic scene, 1st Sgt. Joshua Arnold swiftly applied pressure to halt the bleeding of a victim, while combat medics Staff Sgt. Robert Pacheco and Sgt. Eve Rodarte provided essential medical assistance. In a decisive move, Staff Sgt. Melissa Taylor took charge of the scene, ensuring that emergency responders could operate effectively.

“They stand out as the finest representatives of our nation.” “They represent the finest of our ranks in the Army,” stated Army Secretary Dan Driscoll on Thursday, as he revealed that each individual was honored with the Meritorious Service Medal. “Their swift response in high-pressure situations undoubtedly made a difference in saving lives.”

Brig. Gen. John Lubas, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, emphasized that the rapid medical responses from the soldiers “certainly saved” the lives of those wounded in the shooting. Five soldiers were rushed to nearby hospitals, with three of them needing surgical intervention. Three individuals have been released from care; one continues to receive treatment at Winn Army Community Hospital and is reported to be in stable condition, while another is recovering at Savannah Memorial Community Hospital.

In the wake of the attack, the base implemented a complete lockdown. In a rapid response, emergency medical teams reached the scene in just 13 minutes, followed closely by a SWAT team from off base, which arrived within 20 minutes. Radford is currently in custody for violating regulations by possessing a personal firearm on base and is set to face charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Officials from the Army Criminal Investigation Division are currently on-site, meticulously collecting digital, forensic, and trace evidence as part of their investigation. The motive remains undisclosed at this time.

In the aftermath of the shooting, soldiers are being provided with counseling services as they transition back to work. “Individuals will navigate this process at varying speeds,” Lubas remarked. “It is our responsibility at this moment to ensure we support them as they navigate this situation.”

Officials have not disclosed the identities of the wounded soldiers.