The Greer Foundation - Tomahawk Medal

The Greer Foundation presents this special award to individuals who exemplify the characteristics of Master Sergeant William "Chief" Carlson – fearlessness, mental and physical toughness, and dedication to his mates.

Chief was killed in action on October 25, 2003 while hunting terrorists in Khan Pass inside the rugged mountains of Afghanistan. He was serving as a member of a joint Central Intelligence Agency/Special Operations clandestine operations team tasked with tracking those responsible for 9/11.

Before joining the ranks of the CIA, Chief served the nation for more than 20 years in the United States Army. His impeccable service as an Airborne Ranger, Green Beret, and Delta Force operator marked Chief as a genuine irreplaceable warrior.

Chief’s real name was Isinamakan (Ee-seen-ah-MAH-kan): it means Takes Rifle Ahead. A descendent of the nomadic Blackfeet Indians, fierce warriors and masters at hunting the enormous buffalo, Chief’s skill and courage as a modern day warrior mirrors that of his proud ancestors. Chief was a living legacy in the special operations community and is survived by a loving wife and two sons.

In 2005, the foundation established this award to honor Chief's sacrifice and lifelong service. CSM Greer had the distinct honor of serving with Chief in the same Ranger company and later in Special Forces. This award consists of a medal draped from a red/black ribbon and a certificate.

Steven Greer is retired from the United States Army. Use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Army or the Department of Defense.