N.D. native receives Bronze Star Medal
Army Sgt. 1st Class Donald A. Ponzer recently was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
Ponzer distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious service to the U.S. as the Compound noncommissioned officer in charge for the 220th Military Police Company, 744th Military Police Battalion, Multi-National Force-Iraq, Baghdad, from Jan. 7, 2008, to Dec. 15, 2008, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His abilities enhanced his unit's mission accomplishment.
Ponzer has completed 20 years of service, with 17 years of active duty. He served in the Marine Corps' 1st Marine Division from 1987 to 1991 in Desert Storm during which he earned a Purple Heart for his service.
He then served in the Army with Field Artillery from 1995 to 1998.
Ponzer was a member of the North Dakota National Guard from 1998 to 2000, during which time he was deployed twice. He then served with the Colorado National Guard from 2000 to 2003.
Ponzer went back to active duty in 2003 and currently serves with the 220th Police Company in Denver.
He resides in Greeley, Colo., with his wife, Lisa, and son Gunnar.
A 1987 graduate of Anamoose High School, he is the son of Royce and Rosie Ponzer of Aylmer.