SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
CARSON CITY — Governor Jim Gibbons today awarded service medals to two Nevada National Guard soldiers for their heroism and sacrifices in the war on terror.
Governor Gibbons awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart to Staff Sgt. Derek Castro of Carson City. Sgt. Castro’s citation says he demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in the face of enemy fire on multiple occasions to protect his fellow soldiers. Sgt. Castro also showed leadership and dedication as he worked with others to train members of the Afghanistan National Police. Sgt. Castro was a member of the Nevada Army Guard 1/221st for seven years. In 2008, Sgt. Castro joined the Army’s Embedded Training Team.
Governor Gibbons also awarded a Purple Heart to Nevada Army Guard Staff Sgt. Arland Stalker of Sandy Valley, Nevada. Sgt. Stalker suffered injuries after an Improvised Explosive Device detonated near his vehicle. Sgt. Stalker was deployed with the Nevada Army Guard’s 593rd Transportation Company in Iraq.
“The courage of these fine Nevada soldiers should be an inspiration to all freedom-loving Nevadans,” Governor Gibbons said, “I offer Sgt. Castro and Sgt. Stalker the appreciation and thanks of our grateful State and our grateful Nation.”
