Twitter
Facebook
Maj. Kirk Faryniasz, an air mobility liaison officer for the 2nd Air Support Operations Squadron in Würzburg, Germany, was recently awarded the Bronze Medal for his contribution in the Global War on Terrorism.
The 2nd ASOS is one of the geographically separated units connected to the 38th Combat Support Wing, and the unit in Würzburg falls under the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.
Major Faryniasz, a Vermont native, has been downrange a total of eight months in the past year. He was deployed February to May 2004, and December 2004 to March 2005.
Acting as the unit’s air mobility liaison officer, Major Faryniasz was responsible for the movement of 5,000 1st ID troops during his first trip downrange to Kuwait in February 2004. He was also responsible for the movement of more than 5,000 1st Cavalry Division troops out of Fort Hood.
Also while downrange, Major Faryniasz was brought into Iraq to conduct an airfield survey. He gave the Army the basic plan to get runway approval and within a few months an Air Force team came out and provided approval and C-130s were touching down.
This ultimately led to a more effective use of resources and shaved three to four days off traveling time for Soldiers. It also allowed direct fly-in to Iraq, which meant no more day-long convoys.
Major Faryniasz is credited with providing outstanding support to the Soldiers upon their arrival in Kuwait. His effort to ensure a smooth transition for incoming Soldiers was what he was known for. His acts of moral support included regularly delivered pizzas or sub sandwiches to troops—ensuring that they had the opportunity to enjoy something more than meals ready to eat.
“I always wanted to make sure the Soldiers were comfortable and informed,” said Major Faryniasz. “The medal is one thing, but the thanks you get from the Soldiers when they know you really care about them is something else.”
