David A. Jarvis

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunnery Sergeant David A. Jarvis, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Platoon Sergeant, 1st Platoon, Company B, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Forward), I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Afghanistan, on 25 October 2010 in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Gunnery Sergeant Jarvis was supporting Operation EASTERN ENDEAVOR in the upper Sangin River Valley of Afghanistan’s volatile Helmand Province. Shortly after an element of his platoon was attacked with an improvised explosive device, his position came under heavy and accurate volleys of machinegun and RPG fire. Immediately upon contact, he knowingly exposed himself to a barrage of enemy fire as he moved back and forth across the defensive perimeter to reposition Marines and direct fires. As sensitive reporting continued to indicate a large enemy force massing on the area, he bravely led his Marines in holding their position during the hour-long firefight. Realizing the large enemy force and high volume of fire was jeopardizing the medical evacuation, he again exposed himself to withering enemy fire as he crossed open terrain to coordinate fires, and personally fire a Light Anti-Armor Weapon rocket from an exposed position. His bold and decisive actions successfully defended a vulnerable casualty evacuation landing zone, enabling a critically wounded Marine to be safely medically evacuated. His selfless actions in the face of daunting fire from a numerically superior enemy killed several enemy fighters and ultimately saved the life of his fellow Marine. By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Gunnery Sergeant Jarvis reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.