A former native of Selma was recently awarded two of the Army’s top combat medals a few months after he was injured while leading fellow soldiers during a raid against terrorists in Tal Afar, Iraq.

Staff Sgt. David M. Edwards Jr., an Army Ranger squad leader, received the Silver Star and Purple Heart for “displaying outstanding leadership, dedication to duty, and commitment to excellence,” according to a release from the U.S. Army.

Edwards, 26, was among three Ranger teams on assignment to hunt down terrorist hideouts early on the morning of Sept. 4, 2005.

The Silver Star is awarded to those who show “gallantry in action,” and must have been performed “with marked distinction.”

It is the third highest military award; designated solely for heroism in combat.

The Purple Heart is awarded, in the name of the president, to those wounded in battle against an enemy of the United States.

Edwards, who has about nine years of military service, joined the army after graduating from high school and spending time at Marion Military Institute.

He is the son of Lt. Colonel Mike Edwards of Centreville, and the brother of Robert Edwards, an Army private stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky.

He is the grandson of David and Betty Edwards of Selma and Agnes Clark of Brent.

We commend Edwards for receiving the Silver Star and Purple Heart, and also for his willingness to serve his country in the military.

The incident for which Edwards received the award reminds us of the dangers our soldiers face daily, both in Iraq and in Afghanistan.

We must continue to support our soldiers, and pray for their safe return as they serve their country overseas.