In a moment of crisis, when others ran for cover, Sgt. Brian R. Lieberman ran toward danger.

In June 2023, Lieberman, an Army combat medic with the 82nd Airborne Division’s 307th Brigade Support Battalion, responded with courage and skill during an active shooter incident outside his apartment complex in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

For his extraordinary bravery and decisive life-saving actions under fire, Lieberman was awarded the Soldier’s Medal—the highest non-combat award a soldier can receive.

The Soldier’s Medal is not handed out lightly. According to Army regulations, it is not awarded solely for saving a life or performing a good deed.

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The recipient must demonstrate heroism in the face of personal risk—something Lieberman did without hesitation.

During a ceremony at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Lieberman received the prestigious award from Col. Jason Schuerger, commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. Schuerger praised Lieberman’s selfless courage and unflinching professionalism.

“It’s a rare instance of valor and heroism,” said Schuerger.

“You re-told the story like I would talk about a dinner party the weekend before. You were matter-of-fact. You were nonchalant. We’re here to recognize you today, because that is not how a sane human being responds. That’s exactly how our Airborne medics respond in circumstances like that.”

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On June 5, 2023, then-Specialist Lieberman was at home when he heard gunshots outside.

Looking out his window, he saw people fleeing in panic near the apartment pool. Instinct kicked in. He grabbed his personally owned firearm, ran outside, and identified himself as an Army medic. A neighbor pointed him toward a woman who had been shot and needed immediate help.

While treating her wounds, the gunman returned—this time firing from a vehicle. Lieberman didn’t flinch. He shielded the victim with his body and returned fire while maneuvering behind a nearby maintenance building for cover.

Once the immediate threat subsided, Lieberman returned to his patient, applied a piece of gauze as a seal for the wound, treated her for shock, and kept her conscious until emergency medical services arrived.

Reflecting on the experience, Lieberman said, “I reverted back to everything the Army taught me.” He described his actions as pure “fight or flight,” and thankfully, his training and instincts carried the day.

In his remarks, Col. Schuerger highlighted the legacy Lieberman now joins, referencing Pfc. Manley Merrill, a World War II combat medic with the same unit lineage who received the Silver Star for evacuating casualties under fire.

“Without a doubt, our airborne medics move to the sound of gunfire, they treat and often save the lives of our troopers,” said Schuerger. “We recognize you in the same selfless courage of Pfc. Merrill, 80 years ago. You are a combat medic, you move toward danger, treating our wounded and returning fire.”

Lieberman credited his success to the continuous training and mentorship he’s received throughout his military career.

“It was an honor to receive the award,” Lieberman said.

“You never know when you’ll be on the C-17 going to fight these nation’s wars or responding to a shooter in broad daylight back home. As medics we’re constantly training to become experts of our craft. Never stop training, never stop growing your knowledge and skills, and never lose the love of the craft.”

The Soldier’s Medal itself is a bronze octagon about 1.5 inches wide, displaying a bald eagle standing on a fasces flanked by stars, hanging from a red, white, and blue ribbon.

Established by Congress in 1926, the medal recognizes those who risk their own lives outside of combat to save others.

Sgt. Lieberman’s bravery, both as a protector and a healer, exemplifies the very spirit of the award.

In placing himself between danger and a defenseless civilian, rendering aid under fire, and acting with humility in its aftermath, Lieberman demonstrated the highest standards of military service and human compassion.

His actions not only saved a life—they serve as a powerful reminder of the quiet heroism displayed by Army medics both on and off the battlefield.

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