Corporal Mitchell Jon Howden.
Citation accompanying the award of Commendation For Gallantry to CPL Howden
For acts of gallantry in action while a Section Commander in the Quick Reaction Force Platoon, Task Group Taji X, Iraq on 11 March 2020.
During the aftermath of a large indirect fire attack on Camp Taji, Corporal Howden displayed bravery of the highest order, exemplary leadership and a disregard for his own safety by entering a burning building containing suspected unexploded ordinance. Corporal Howden led several searches, inspiring his men to follow him, which resulted in the rescue of two contractors who were incapacitated through injury. His gallant actions and inspirational leadership when faced with extreme danger saved several Coalition lives.