Congratulations Joe.
The 4 Star is Gen David Petraeus, Commanding General of Multi-National Force - Iraq (MNF-I) (2010 update.Takes over in Afghanistan)
29 Apr-29 Oct 2008 RAAC Warrant officer Recognised For Service, Operation Iraqi Freedom Warrant Officer Class One Joseph Ludeman, Australian Army, distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious service as Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff, Joint Headquarters Advisory Team, Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq, Baghdad, Iraq, from 29 April 2008 to 29 October 2008, during OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM
Congratulations from all Joe Awards To RAAC Soldiers related to this operation. (Citations accessible through SOArmd Website: RAAC Notes, Honours & Awards.) | Name | Rank at time of Award | Regt No | Unit | Decoration Honour or Award | Date Of Action | Place Most Action Occurred | | Ludeman, J.F. | WO1 | | Joint HQ Advisory Team, Multi National Security Transition Command-Iraq | USABronze Star | 29 Apr 08-29 Oct 08 | Baghdad, Iraq |
CITATION:NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD OFTHE BRONZE STAR MEDALTOWARRANT OFFICER CLASS ONE JOSEPH LUDEMAN AUSTRALIAN ARMY
Warrant Officer Class One Joseph Ludeman, Australian Army, distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious service as Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff, Joint Headquarters Advisory Team, Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq, Baghdad, Iraq, from 29 April 2008 to 29 October 2008, during OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. Warrant Officer Class One Ludeman’s keen insights, dogged determination and manner with Iraqi and Coalition personnel were critical to his success. Through the period, he provided advice and recommendations for the formulation, structure and training of the Iraqi senior enlisted corps. He accompanied the Deputy Commanding General on multiple trips and visits throughout the area of operations and by his actions and conduct demonstrated in a remarkable manner the role of a Command Sergeant Major. His legacy is surviving as all of the senior Iraqi officers, including the Chief of Staff for the Iraqi Joint Forces, a 4-star general, and the Deputy Chief of Staff for Training, a 3-star general, continue to project him as the role model for the Iraqi cadre of senior enlisted within the Joint Headquarters and the Iraqi Armed Forces. This achievement is particularly remarkable in that it has been accomplished in spite of the Iraqi historical propensity to discount the value and utility of non commissioned officers in general, Warrant Officer Class One Ludeman has a keen eye for the unexpected problem and pitfall and has been most adept at anticipating problems and preparing alternative solutions; this is again a skill he has relentlessly imparted upon the Iraqis. He has an impressive ability to judge the moment to offer guidance and direction and perhaps more importantly when to step away and allow personal development. In acting as the bridge between the Coalition and Iraqi Ministry of Defence he has been tireless in his efforts to create standardized promotion; training and professional development system on both sides of the divide and has successfully incorporated North Atlantic Treaty Organization Training Mission-Iraq into this effort. Within the Joint Headquarters Advisory Team directorate, his performance has been exemplary as well. He has mentored junior enlisted, provided counsel and direction for all ranks, and is respected and sought after for advice by his fellow senior enlisted in the command. His in-depth knowledge and willingness to assist has enabled him to simplify a number of procedures and tasks and this has allowed personnel to concentrate on their primary task of advising their Iraqi counterparts. He worked daily within the Iraqi Joint Headquarters building which is located beyond the secure boundary of the International Zone in Baghdad, Iraq, protected only by Iraqi Armed Forces. Its location makes it a high visibility target that is vulnerable to direct and indirect fire. He was exposed to a number of hostile rocket and mortar attacks. Small arms fire surrounding his work and living area was a daily occurrence. His travels outside Coalition Forward Operating Bases exposed him to hostile situations and a variety of dangers. The energetic application of his extensive knowledge has materially contributed to the efforts of the Coalition forces to establish a secure Iraqi Nation. Warrant Officer Class One Ludeman honored the finest traditions of military service and reflected distinct credit upon himself, the Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq, and the Australian Army.
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