My heart goes out to his parents, Mimie and Ed West and their family. Please keep this family in your prayers. I have never had the good fortune to meet Phillip prior to his deployment, but his parents, Ed and Mimie, would keep me updated on his missions in Iraq. Shortly after he began his tour in June, 2004, LCpl Phillip West received a Certificate of Commendation for superior performance of his duties while serving as a Rifleman during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was credited for locating wires that led to an improvised explosive device that was buried in the ground. West’s keen awareness and attention to detail allowed for the disposal of the device, which prevented the possibility of injury or death to his brother Marines. Following a rocket attack on the Company’s forward operating base, LCpl West observed insurgents in a vehicle and in a covered position that were associated with the attack with small arms, rockets and indirect fire, LCpl West immediately initiated highly accurate, small arms fire into the vehicle and covered position. His actions enabled the Company to pinpoint the direction of enemy indirect fire and eliminate the threat. Additionally, while standing post at the southern vehicle checkpoint near Fallujah, LCpl West observed and engaged an enemy attacker that breached the Company’s trigger line. LCpl West immediately fired at the attacker and prevented the individual from inflicting injury to his fellow Marines. LCpl West’s exceptional performance and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.  LCpl Phillip West continued his honorable service throughout his tour and, on more than one occasion, rendered emergency medical assistances to wounded follow Marines, ultimately, saving their lives.  Thank you Ed and Mimie for raising a wonderful son whom took his commitments and service so seriously and thank you for sharing him with our country.

LCpl Phillip West is to be commended for a job well done and acknowledged for saving many wounded Marines' lives through his various medical actions and brave battles. This was to be their last mission before his unit could start preparing to come home. Please keep the West family in your thoughts and prayers and their son, Phillip, tucked in your heart. It is times like these that a heartfelt thank you to a serviceman seems so small in comparison to what they have done for you and me, but it is the only thing I can offer at this moment....Thank you LCpl Phillip West for your loyalty, bravery, dedication and service to our country. You are a true American hero and you will remain forever in the hearts of those you have touched.

- Sindy Biederman  (American Canyon Troop Support)