Two Nevada National Guard soldiers have been awarded medals for their military service and acts of bravery in Iraq and Afghanistan.
During a ceremony Monday, Gov. Jim Gibbons presented Staff Sgt. Derek Casto of Carson City with a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for showing exceptional courage and leadership in the face of enemy fire.
He was injured while on a mission in Afghanistan.
Staff Sgt. Arland Stalker, of Sandy Valley, was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries suffered when an explosive device detonated near his vehicle while serving with the Nevada Army Guard's 593rd Transportation Company in Iraq.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)