Aaron Totten-Lancaster

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Aaron Totten-Lancaster, Specialist, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Automatic Weapons Gunner in 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. Specialist Totten-Lancaster’s valorous actions while in direct contact with enemy forces and in the face of extreme duress during the successful rescue of Special Operators contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and to the saving of additional lives. While exiting the aircraft, Specialist Totten-Lancaster was severely wounded by shrapnel. With total disregard for his well being, Specialist Totten-Lancaster continued to engage the enemy from a covered and concealed position. His ability to provide suppressive fire enabled the assault element to break contact from the enemy. The gallantry displayed by Specialist Totten-Lancaster during 18 hours of combat is in keeping with the highest standards of valor. Through his distinctive accomplishments, Specialist Totten-Lancaster reflected credit upon himself, the United States Army, and the Department of Defense.