Staff Sergeant Nicholas Jones of the 2nd Marine Raider Battalion will receive the Navy Cross, the military’s second-highest award for valor. He will be receiving it during a ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, on August 26th.

According to Marine Forces Special Operations Command, General David Berger, Commandant of the Marine Corps, will present the award to Jones.

On March 8th, 2020, Nicholas Jones had the role of element leader. He accompanied Iraqi forces in the mountains of northern Iraq on a mission to clear ISIS positions.

ISIS fighters who were barricaded in caves ambushed another nearby element with heavy fire. A French special operator was wounded in that ambush. Two Marine Raiders were also wounded shortly afterward.

In order to rescue his comrades, Jones took the lead on the counterattack. He pushed his way to the wounded French operator despite the close-ranged and heavy attacks.

He fought back with his rifle and grenades to keep the enemy back while helping the French operator move to a protected position. He was later medically evacuated.

Next, the press release said Jones sought to help the two wounded Raiders, who were in a steep ravine. Again, he fought the enemy at close range until their heavy fire forced him back.

Almost five hours after the battle began, Jones launched a third attack. However, he was hit in the leg by enemy small-arms fire. He refused medical treatment and pain medication to continue fighting until he was medically evacuated.

“By his decisive actions, bold initiative, and an unconquerable spirit, Staff Sgt. Jones reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service,” said Marine Forces Special Operations Command

Jones will be the eighth of its service members to receive the Navy Cross as part of Operation Inherent Resolve.

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