Bronze Star Recipient

Maj. Kimberly Broughton, of the 96th Medical Group, was awarded the Bronze Star April 24 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. She was honored for meritorious service as the sole orthopedic surgeon while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. According to the medal certificate, Broughton’s performance, expertise and dedication to duty greatly contributed to the success of the unit’s mission during combat operations. Her expertise resulted in highly successful orthopedic trauma support, to include 21 artery repairs and 30 limb saving cases, which diminished the risk of permanent injury and gave each patient the optimal opportunity for full recovery. She also provided orthopedic consultation for 60 outpatient clinic visits, eliminating the need for evacuation to a higher level of care, which resulted in more than $50,000 saved and a 99.4 percent return to duty rate. (U.S. Air Force photo/Sara Vidoni)