KIRKUK PROVINCE, Iraq -- Spc. Kyle Martin is a Fairmont native serving with the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
He's also the Task Force Marne Hero of the North.
Martin, 23, is stationed at the Kirkuk Air Base in northern Iraq with the 115th Engineering Company, 779th Engineering Battalion, 130th Engineer Brigade, according to a press release from the Army.
With his background and education in engineering, the release says Martin was an optimal choice to advise the Resident Engineer Officer in Charge and Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge on projects there that cost over $8 million.
Those projects include water treatment units and bridges, the release states.
In the release, his supervisor says Martin's attention to detail, critical oversight and expertise have been a huge asset.
Martin graduated from Fairmont Senior High School in 2004, then graduated with a degree in engineering from Fairmont State University in May 2009.
The day after his college graduation, Martin deployed to Iraq.
He was surprised to learn about his award.
"Actually, I didn't even know it happened, but, it feels good to get honored with something like that, and to be able to bring that home with me. It lets everyone know that I did that. That means I've actually accomplished something and served my country," Martin said in an interview Friday.
