FRANCESTOWN, N.H. (AP) – A Francestown soldier serving in Iraq was awarded the Silver Star, the fourth-highest military decoration, for heroic conduct in the war.

The U.S. Army presented Master Sgt. Eric Gagne with the medal during a ceremony Friday in Iraq. Gagne serves in the 10th Mountain Division based in Fort Drum, N.Y. Military officials said Gagne received the Silver Star in recognition of “exceptionally heroic conduct” that included capturing improvised bombs and weapons caches belonging to groups seeking to harm coalition and Iraqi forces.

Gagne was singled out for his quick instincts and reflexes. Officials praised for once protecting a child by physically tackling a bomber in Iraq.

But Gagne spread the credit among his colleagues.

“I look at this award as more what the platoon has accomplished.

I think the entire platoon can take ownership of this,” he said after receiving the medal.

“We get out and walk and so far the old school light infantry tactics are working.”

Gagne was not the only New Hampshire soldier honored during the awards ceremony.

Staff Sgt. Todd Stoner of Grafton, received the Bronze Star Medal for valor.