Sean Patrick Maloney Presents Service Medal to Iraq War Hero

NEWBURGH – Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) presented the Army Commendation Medal, with “V” device, to Sergeant Richard Gerbeth, an Iraq War veteran, and member of Rep. Maloney’s Veterans Advisory Board. The Army Commendation medal is awarded to service members who distinguish themselves through heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service. The “V” or valor device, is awarded to service members who participate in acts of heroism involving conflict with an armed enemy.

“Sergeant Gerbeth is a true American hero – he literally risked his life to save the life of his fellow soldier,” said Maloney. “As the son of a veteran who was nearly killed while serving our country, it is my honor to present him with the medal that only begins to recognize his bravery and service to our country and to his fellow service members.”

“I have had the honor and privilege of calling Richard my friend for over a decade. As a fellow combat wounded veteran, I am proud of him not only for his service to God & Country but also to his continued service through his volunteerism and caring in his community,” said William “Willy” Nazario, National Sr. Vice Commander, Military Order of the Purple Heart. “The Military Order of the Purple Heart is proud of his commitment to our mission statement and good works. Congratulations Patriot Gerbeth.”

“Richard’s Purple Heart is a visual statement of his sacrifice while the V for valor commemorates his actions taken that day. I am proud to call him my friend,” said Andrew Komonchak, Executive Director, National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, Inc.

“His devotion to military and veterans causes is second to none and is very evident in everything he undertakes,” said Richard Drago, Senior Vice Commander, Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 1782.

After establishing a strong track record of getting things done for Hudson Valley veterans, active-duty military, and their families, Rep. Maloney announced last week that he was appointed by House Speaker Paul Ryan and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi to serve on the United States Military Academy Board of Visitors (BOV). Since joining Congress, he has secured nearly 150 medals and commendations, and returned more than $3 million in guaranteed benefits for more than 800 Hudson Valley service members and veterans, who were owed education, disability, retirement, medical, burial, spousal and dependents’ compensation.

Medal Citation: Army Commendation Medal

The Secretary of the Army of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Army Commendation Medal with Combat “V” device to Sergeant Richard R. Gerbeth, Jr., United States Army, for heroism during ground combat operations against enemy forces in Iraq. While under enemy fire, Sergeant Gerbeth maneuvered across the road next to a canal to rescue the patrol leader who was exposed to enemy fire, in the canal where the water was approximately 7 feet deep. Although exposed to enemy fire, Sergeant Gerbeth remained with the patrol leader and maintained communications throughout the ordeal. Upon rejoining the ambush team, Sergeant Gerbeth called in successive illumination missions enabling the platoon to sweep the vineyards and mudflats north of the ambush site. Acting as the Ambush Team Radio Operator, he engaged the enemy and coordinated the Quick Reaction Force response. Acting on his own initiative he vectored in the Quick Reaction Force gun trucks to support the follow on sweep by the platoon. Sergeant Gerbeth’s actions reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.

Biography of Sergeant Richard R. Gerbeth, Jr.
Patriot Richard Gerbeth Jr. was appointed National Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms in 2014; he joined MOPH in 2012 and is a Life Member and Commander of Chapter 1782 New York. Past positions include Chapter Welfare Officer and Sergeant-at -Arms and Department Sergeant-at-Arms and Junior Vice Commander.

Patriot Gerbeth enlisted in the U.S. Navy in January 1991 at age 18 and served during the Persian Gulf War, but was honorably discharged after one year for medical reasons. After using the G.I. Bill to attend Westchester Community College, he was hired by United Parcel Service, initially part-time but eventually full time, driving a package delivery truck. In 1999, he joined the New York Army Reserve/National Guard and volunteered for the Infantry. He was activated for state missions throughout NY during and post September 11, 2001.

In October 2003, his National Guard unit, Alpha Company Task Force, 2nd Battalion-108th Infantry Regiment was mobilized and attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Then Sergeant Gerbeth served as an E-5/Fire Team Leader within the Sunni Triangle from February 2004 through December 2004 and was wounded In November 2004. His individual decorations include the Purple Heart Medal, Army Commendation Medal with “V” device for Valor, Army Achievement Medal and the Combat Infantrymen’s Badge.

After his release from active duty in April 2005, he returned to drill status for one year until he was medically retired from the U.S. Army in April 2006. He returned to his civilian position as a teamster, but was unable to perform his duties due to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) incurred in the line of duty. He retired early after an 18 year career with UPS.

Although Patriot Gerbeth was wounded in 2004, he did not receive his Purple Heart or any correspondence regarding this award until December 2011. No original paperwork was submitted due to difficulties in diagnosing and treating Concussion/ TBI until April 2011. At this point in time, the United States Military changed its diagnosis methods and awarded Gerbeth the Purple Heart Medal. Patriot Gerbeth took great pride and privilege in having his Medal pinned by his former commanding officer whom he served under in combat; the ceremony took place on the 80th anniversary of “Temple Hill Day” May 28, 2012 at General George Washington’s cantonment site.

Gerbeth has a life-long love of motorcycles, enjoys riding his Harley Davidson and likes being in the outdoors, particularly camping and hiking. On a regular basis, he volunteers at his local VA hospital, Castle Point Campus, Hudson Valley, NY. His newest contribution to his community is serving as Assistant Scout Master for Boy Scout Troop 3026 in Wappinger’s Falls, NY. Patriot Gerbeth is married to Jessica and they have four children, two girls and two boys.