Soldier From Killeen Honored for Heroism During El Paso Shooting

When Americans first heard about the mass shooting in El Paso, Texas on August 3rd, the news was quickly followed by the story of a Fort Bliss soldier who helped several people to safety during the crisis. You can read the original story about Army Pfc. Glendon Oakley, Jr. with the button below.

Almost two weeks later, Army Pfc. Glendon Oakley, Jr. is in the news again and this time it is to honor his role in saving the lives of children and bystanders during the terrible events inside the El Paso Walmart.

Oakley Jr. was growing up in Killeen while his father served at Fort Hood. He is now stationed in El Paso at Fort Bliss as a specialist with the 504th Composite Supply Company, 142 Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 1st Armored Division Sustainment Brigade.

Oakley appears in the photo at the top of the page being awarded the Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) by Maj. Darrell Lyles during an award ceremony at Fort Bliss. Of note are several comments on the original post saying Oakley deserves even higher recognition than the ARCOM.

The video above shows Oakley's interview with KTSM not long after the shooting when he describes his encounter with a child who told him a shooter was inside the store. Not long after this encounter, Oakley saw several kids running without their parents. He says his military training kicked in and he took action to help them reach safety.

Oakley returned from a tour in Kuwait just a few months ago. We can't thank him enough for his bravery and service along with all the first responders and emergency workers who helped during the tragedy.