BAGRAM AIR BASE, AFGHANISTAN -- The Defense Department has announced that THX-1138, an MQ-1 Predator Drone, will be the first recipient of the Pentagon's newly-minted Distinguished Warfare Medal.
On 17 December, THX-1138 stayed on station for 8 hours, defending a US Special Forces A-Team from numerous attacks with its Hellfire missiles. During the action, THX-1138 repeatedly refused requests to return to base.
At the end of the day, THX-1138's tenacity, perseverance, and valor in the face of enemy fire saved all 12 members of the team.