Kendra Linne felt nothing but pride and accomplishment on September 19, 2009 when she was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Exceptional Meritorious Service during Operation Enduring Freedom. It had been a long and difficult year for Kendra Linne. Being overseas in Afghanistan was both mentally and physically draining. All of her years of training were put to the test at all times. There were daily challenges in her job that she had never dealt with and everyone was always on edge. Kendra Linne never felt like she wanted to come home prematurely, but knew she would be relieved when her duties were complete.

When Kendra Linne found out that she was going to receive the Bronze Star Medal upon arriving back in the States, she could not take the smile off her face. “It was one of those times in life that I knew I had really earned that medal, so it just felt great to receive it. I had worked harder than I had ever worked. The military appreciates hard work and recognizes you for it. I still feel proud when I look at that medal. The feeling has not worn off!” says Kendra Linne.

Kendra Linne comes from a long line of family who have served in various branches of the military. After receiving her medal, she proudly shared her achievements with those who would appreciate it the most. Kendra Linne’s father, uncles and a few cousins were all so happy for her achievement and really understood what she put in to receive such recognition. Her father had served in the Army during the Vietnam War and similarly handled logistics as she does.

“I knew my daughter, Kendra Linne, was going to rise to the top in the military. People like her who are bright, motivated and hard-working are usually fairly rewarded and recognized. I always supported her decisions to join and stay in the military, as she has made it her career. Kendra Linne will continue to be successful as her career progresses to the next stage. She has a nice life due to her hard-work and dedication in the military, and for that I’m more than happy for her,” said Kendra Linne’s father.