Arin K. Canon

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arin K. Canon, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Weapons Squad Leader with Company A, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, during the period 3 to 4 March 2002, during Operation ANACONDA in Afghanistan. Staff Sergeant Canon’s valorous actions while in direct contact with enemy forces and in the face of extensive duress during the successful rescue of Special Operators contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and to the saving of additional lives. Staff Sergeant Canon led the support element during the initial assault on an enemy fortified position. His leadership was instrumental in suppressing the objective and protecting the assault forces. Immediately following this action, he coordinated the defense of the entire objective, placing personnel and key weapon systems that enabled the platoon to defeat two enemy counterattacks. The gallantry displayed by Staff Sergeant Canon during 18 hours of combat is in keeping with the highest standards of valor, Through his distinctive accomplishments, Staff Sergeant Canon reflected great credit upon himself, the United States Army, and the Department of Defense.