HONOLULU (WATE) - Spc. Craig Middleton, of Sevierville, was awarded the Silver Star Monday during a ceremony at a base in Hawaii.
Spc. Middleton, who's with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, earned the commendation during a firefight in November 2011 in Afghanistan. He kept fighting, even after being wounded by a rocket propelled grenade that exploded in his vehicle.
Middleton talked with an army reporter about his combat experience.
"The drill sergeant always said you'll see what kind of person you are when the bullets start flying, and that's the truth. You don't know until it happens how you're going to react. It was just meant to be. I was calm and collected. I just don't know how to explain it. It was divine guidance," Middleton said.
He says he's recovering well from his injuries and handling the shock of the experience.
Spc. Middleton visited with his family in East Tennessee in January.
After his time in the military, Middleton says he's considering a career as a dentist.
Spc. Craig Middleton poses with his medal. (source: Army video)
