TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Marines with 1st Tank Battalion received medals in recognition for their actions while deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, September 3, 2013 at the Battalion's compound.

The Marines who received the awards were from Company D, 1st Tanks. The company returned to the Combat Center in late July, marking the end of a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan.

“I'm extremely proud of (the Marines),” said Capt. Chris Ashinhurst, company commander, Co. D, 1st Tanks. “They never backed down and accomplished the mission.”

The awards included Purple Hearts, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. They were presented by Maj. Andrew Dirkes, executive officer, 1st Tanks.

“We don't look to put ourselves in harm's way, but our mission takes us there,” said Sgt. Maj. Brian Priester, sergeant major, 1st Tanks. “Some of these Marines suffered wounds but they continued on and performed as expected.”

Staff Sgt. Kyle D. Shackelford, Lance Cpl. Philip V. Lim and Lance Cpl. Eric A. Targon were awarded Purple Hearts.

A Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal was awarded to Staff Sgt. Jamie L. Held for his efforts engaging enemy fighters during a recovery mission.

A Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal was awarded to Cpl. Adam Nichols for continuing his push against enemy fighters during a recovery mission.

All Marines awarded medals were recognized because of their efforts during “Operation Dynamic Partner.”

According to Ashinhurst, the Marines were part of a M88 recovery vehicle crew during Operation Dynamic Partner and were recovering disabled vehicles when they came under extremely intense fire. The Marines engaged and destroyed the enemy fighters while continuing their recovery. With the exception of one vehicle, all gear was recovered and no Marines were lost.