In a moving tribute to bravery and sacrifice, the U.S. Army has unveiled its latest infantry assault vehicle, the M10 Booker Combat Vehicle. This advanced and modernized capability stands as a testament to the Army’s ongoing transformation and commitment to providing its forces with the tools needed to overmatch adversaries. Named after two remarkable soldiers, Pvt. Robert D. Booker, a World War II Medal of Honor recipient, and Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker, a Distinguished Service Cross recipient from Operation Iraqi Freedom, the M10 Booker represents a symbol of their shared valor and serves as a powerful reminder of their selfless dedication to the nation.
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Honoring Heroic Legacies
The M10 Booker Combat Vehicle is the Army’s newest addition to its combat vehicle fleet, featuring enhanced survivability and advanced capabilities. This cutting-edge vehicle pays tribute to Pvt. Robert D. Booker and Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker, both of whom displayed extraordinary courage in the face of adversity.
Pvt. Robert D. Booker: A Hero of World War II
Pvt. Robert D. Booker’s heroic actions during the Allied North African campaign in Tunisia exemplify his unwavering commitment to duty. Despite hostile enemy fire, Booker fearlessly advanced across an open field, carrying a machine gun and ammunition. Despite being wounded, he relentlessly engaged enemy targets, neutralizing an enemy machine gun before succumbing to his injuries. Pvt. Booker’s self-sacrifice and unwavering determination earned him the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart, leaving a lasting legacy of bravery.
Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker: A Warrior of Operation Iraqi Freedom
Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker’s remarkable courage and leadership were showcased during the offensive armored attack known as “Thunder Run” in Baghdad, Iraq. Despite heavy enemy fire, Booker fearlessly engaged the enemy, communicated vital information to his chain of command, and protected his platoon from an exposed position on top of his tank. Despite being fatally wounded, Booker’s unwavering dedication and sacrifice ultimately contributed to the success of the mission. His extraordinary actions were recognized with the posthumous award of the Distinguished Service Cross.
A Fitting Tribute and Technological Advancement
The M10 Booker Combat Vehicle not only pays homage to these two exceptional soldiers but also represents a leap forward in infantry capabilities. Designed to provide greater survivability, improved threat detection, and increased mobility in off-road terrains, this vehicle empowers infantry brigades to maintain speed and momentum on the modern battlefield. With decisive lethality and enhanced protection, the M10 Booker ensures that soldiers can face the threats that claimed the lives of Pvt. Robert D. Booker and Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker, enabling their legacy to live on.
