(ROUND ROCK, T.X.-) Congressman John Carter (R-TX31) today presented an Army Veteran Sergeant Andrew P. Idol with 11 medals, including a Purple Heart.

Sergeant Idol grew up in Round Rock, attending Round Rock High School. In 2009, at the age of 17 and with permission from his parents, Idol joined the United States Army. He attended boot camp just a few weeks prior to September 11. He served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.  During his last mission in Afghanistan in 2010, Sergeant Idol was injured by in IED. He medically retired from the Army in 2013. He now lives and works in Houston.

“I wanted to be in the Army for 30 years and make a career of it. I was going to do this for the rest of my life. But that couldn’t happen. As I look at these medals, all I think about is my fellow soldiers who were injured and those who didn’t make it back. Good men have been hurt and killed. These medals are for them.”

“You are truly an American hero and you have the credentials to prove it. You are a leader of men and I am very proud of you,” said Congressman Carter. “I am honored to present you with these medals. I am humbled by our soldiers and the sacrifices they make.”

Sergeant Idol was awarded the following awards and decorations, all presented by Congressman Carter.

·         Purple Heart

·         Army Commendation Medal

·         National Defense Service Medal

·         Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Bronze Service Stars

·         Iraq Campaign Medal with one Bronze Service Star

·         Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal

·         Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

·         Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon

·         Army Service Ribbon

·         Expert Badge with Auto Rifle Bar

·         NATO Medal