101st Airborne, United States Army
Cpl. Parks enlisted in 2006, completing Infantryman Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, before being stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He served our nation with pride and distinction until 2009. During his 15-month deployment to Iraq, he participated in and conducted air assault operations, Small Kill Team missions, and tactical raids on enemy positions. He also assisted in the training of local security forces and provided vital security for Coalition and Iraqi units.
While conducting combat operations in Samarra, Iraq, Cpl. Parks engaged in close-quarters combat with Al-Qaeda forces. Throughout his service, he demonstrated exceptional courage, skill, and leadership under fire. For his valor and dedication, he earned the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Army Commendation Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and a medal recognizing him as an Exemplary Soldier.
Cpl. Parks’ service stands as a testament to honor, bravery, and unwavering commitment to his country and to the brothers-in-arms who stood beside him.
