In the demanding and perilous realm of explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), courage and expertise are paramount. For the brave Airmen who undertake this vital role, every mission carries significant risk, particularly in regions fraught with conflict. Senior Airman Nicholas Worthington, assigned to the 377th Civil Engineer Division at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, embodies this valor. His exceptional actions during a deployment to Baghdad in 2006, while confronting suspicious devices, earned him a distinguished place in “Portraits of Courage, Volume II,” a publication by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force recognizing remarkable Airmen.
The “Portraits of Courage” series serves as a powerful tribute to the dedication and selflessness of Air Force personnel who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership and bravery during wartime. General T. Michael Moseley, then Chief of Staff, initiated this series to spotlight the remarkable contributions of Airmen across the Total Force. Airman Worthington’s selection for this prestigious recognition underscores the critical nature of EOD teams’ work and the personal risks they undertake to ensure safety.
During his deployment to Baghdad, Airman Worthington was an integral member of an EOD team tasked with investigating suspicious devices encountered by military convoys – a frequent and highly dangerous threat in the Iraqi capital. These devices, often improvised explosive devices (IEDs), posed a constant and lethal risk to coalition forces. In one harrowing incident, Airman Worthington’s convoy was directly struck by an IED. Following protocol, the team meticulously traced the command wire from the detonation site, leading them to a nearby house believed to be the source. As the team began analyzing the location for further threats, a secondary IED detonated unexpectedly.
The force of the second explosion threw Airman Worthington to the ground. Despite the disorienting blast and immediate danger, his training and instincts took over. He quickly assessed the situation and began administering self-aid and buddy care to his severely wounded team leader. As medics arrived to provide further assistance, insurgents initiated small arms fire, targeting the exposed coalition forces. Without hesitation, Airman Worthington positioned himself between his injured team leader and the incoming fire, effectively shielding him while returning fire to suppress the enemy attack. Once the firefight subsided, he played a crucial role in carrying the wounded personnel to a medevac helicopter for urgent medical evacuation.
For his extraordinary heroism and selfless actions under fire, Airman Worthington was awarded the Bronze Star earlier in the same year he was recognized in “Portraits of Courage.” His story not only exemplifies personal bravery but also highlights the crucial, often unseen, work of EOD teams in neutralizing suspicious devices and protecting fellow service members in hostile environments. His recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by Airmen from bases like Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, who serve with valor and distinction in global operations.
