Army M-N

*MAHOLIC, THOMAS D. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Thomas D. Maholic, Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the Detachment Operations Sergeant for Operational Detachment Alpha 765 (ODA-765), Company A, 2d Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 24 June 2006, at Pashmul, Kandahar, Afghanistan. Master Sergeant Maholics’s heroic actions defeated a Taliban attack, saved the lives of his comrades, and prevented the destruction of his team. His actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.

NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD
Master Sergeant Thomas D. Maholic, United States Army, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry in action as the Detachment Operations Sergeant for Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 765, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. On 24 June 2006, while conducting a cordon and search mission to capture or kill Taliban leadership in Panjawi District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Sergeant Maholic and his detachment commander identified a small compound west of their perimeter on a knoll that would threaten their position if occupied by the enemy. Shortly after, they observed several individuals run toward, and then enter the compound. Sergeant Maholic volunteered to lead a patrol of three other detachment members, 20 Afghan Soldiers, and two interpreters to assault and secure the compound. He assigned two detachment members, along with four Afghan Soldiers and one interpreter, to a support-by-fire position. Sergeant Maholic took the other detachment member, one interpreter, and the remainder of the Afghan Soldiers to form the assault force. As he prepared to assault the compound, both of his elements came under heavy enemy fire from concealed enemy positions around the area. Sergeant Maholic immediately initiated the assault and his small element rapidly entered and cleared the compound. Once inside, he learned that his two detachment members at the support-by-fire position had been critically wounded, and that their position was in danger of being overrun. As he established a defensive position from which he could control his forces, a large Taliban Force counter-attacked and occupied positions on all sides, effectively surrounding and isolating Sergeant Maholic’s force and the support-by-fire position from each other as well as other friendly elements. From all directions, the numerically superior enemy initiated an uninterrupted barrage of machinegun, rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fires on both elements. From intercepted radio transmissions, Sergeant Maholic learned that the enemy commander’s intent was to capture the combined force alive. An eight-man quick reaction force, dispatched by Team Leader and led by the detachment Medical Sergeant, fought its way to the compound to assist in the fight and the medical evacuation of the two wounded Soldiers. Sergeant Maholic immediately ordered them to reinforce the support-by-fire position and render aid to the two wounded Soldiers, leaving himself, one other detachment member, and 15 Afghan Soldiers to hold the compound. For 40 minutes, Sergeant Maholic moved throughout the compound from position to position in the more than 100 degree heat. Moving across rooftops, on ladders, and behind mud walls, he coordinated his unit’s fires and adjusted his perimeter as required, while repeatedly exposed to an extraordinary volume of fire by an estimated 50 well-armed and determined Taliban fighters. The enemy element quickly maneuvered to as near as 15 meters from the outside walls of the compound, brought forward machineguns, and began to place effective fire on the defenders. As the volume of enemy fire reached an unbearable level, and with Taliban fighters shouting insults and threats at the Afghan Soldiers less than 25 meters away, the compound defense began to falter. Sergeant Maholic sprinted from one position to the next, without regard for his own personal safety, ignoring bullet and rocket-propelled grenade impacts all around him, as he rallied and motivated the defenders to hold and regain the initiative. He repositioned weapon systems, identified targets, directed fires, and shouted encouragement while continuing to engage enemy fighters with his personal weapon and simultaneously coordinating the relief effort for his two wounded Soldiers. His determination, resolve, and personal example inspired the defenders and they began to eliminate enemy forces maneuvering ever closer to the compound. Slowly and methodically, Sergeant Maholic’s defenders gained fire superiority and drove the Taliban back. When Sergeant Maholic learned that the previously dispatched reaction force was engaged by heavy Taliban fire, he ordered the one remaining detachment member to depart the compound, maneuver to the support-by-fire position, and assist his wounded comrades. As the only remaining American Soldier in the compound, Sergeant Maholic continued to direct the defense of the compound against several determined and well coordinated attacks. While attempting to engage one enemy fighter maneuvering in an alley, Sergeant Maholic emerged from behind cover to fire his weapon and was mortally wounded; however, inspired by his personal example, the remaining Afghan National Army Soldiers continued the defense. The attackers eventually withdrew in the face of the determined defense by the remaining Afghan Soldiers. Sergeant Maholic’s courageous actions not only rallied the defenders to deny the enemy’s attempt to overrun and capture the force, but successfully eliminated enemy forces that would have certainly enveloped the detachment’s more vulnerable positions. His gallantry, dedication to duty, and selfless sacrifice exemplified the warrior ethos and directly resulted in the detachment seizing the initiative, denying the enemy use of key terrain, and forcing the Taliban retreat. The heroic accomplishments of Sergeant Maholic reflect great credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.
Born: at Bradford, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Bradford, Pennsylvania
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), 2@ Bronze Stars w/v, Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart

MAHON, KELLY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Kelly Mahon, Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Operational Detachment Alpha 583 (ODA- 585), 5th Special Forces Group Airborne, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, in Iraq, on 11 September 2003. On that date, Master Sergeant Mahon and his teammates were on a mission to remove terrorists barricaded in a house. Two Special Forces soldiers were killed in the raid, and Master Sergeant Mahon risked his life to retrieve a third, who had been mortally wounded. By using hand grenades and other firearms, he led the remaining team through the house, receiving heavy fire from enemy insurgents. Three of the A-Team soldiers were hit, but Mahon remained calm and ordered a soldier manning a .50-caliber machine gun outside to fire on the house. The gunfire allowed Mahon to toss a fragmentary grenade to overcome an armed fighter fortified in a stairwell. Master Sergeant Mahon's leadership during the battle gave inspiration to those who fought with him and was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Virgil, Kansas

MAHONEY, ANDREW J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Andrew J. Mahoney, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, at Asadabad, Afghanistan on 8 August 2012, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Laingsburg, Michigan

MAITRE, BENJAMIN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Benjamin Maitre, Captain, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in while serving as Pilot of an MC-130H Combat Tallon II aircraft, attached to Air Force Special Operations Command, during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, during the height of war in Afghanistan, on 21 February 2002. On that date, Captain Maitre flew a re-supply mission and encountered heavy resistance from the enemy and although his aircraft was hit by intense anti-aircraft fire 10 minutes before his crew was to drop supplies.
Home Town: Boston, Massachusetts

MALDONADO-VEGA, JOSE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Specialist Jose Maldonado Vega, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with the 130th Engineer Battalion, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq on 14 June 2007. Specialist Maldonado Vega's gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Puerto Rico

MALMBERG, CHAD A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Chad A. Malmberg, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Convoy Escort Team Commander, assigned to Company A, 2d Battalion, 135th Infantry Regiment (AASLT), assigned to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, near Al Mahmudiyah, Iraq on 27 January 2007 during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. Staff Sergeant Malmberg's personal bravery and selfless actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 34th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD:
Staff Sergeant Chad A. Malmberg distinguished himself by his gallantry in action against an armed enemy of the United States as a Convoy Escort Team Commander, while assigned to Company A, 2d Battalion, 135th Infantry Regiment (AASLT), assigned to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, near Al Mahmudiyah, Iraq on 27 January 2007 during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. Staff Sergeant Malmberg was the Commander of a Convoy Escort Team that departed Baghdad International Airport on 27 January 2007, with five gun trucks and 20 logistical vehicles. At 2232 hours, as Staff Sergeant Malmberg's convoy was traveling south on MSR Tampa near Checkpoint 30A, a convoy driving in front of them was struck by an improvised explosive device, requiring him to stop his convoy. A cordon of the area was established by the local route security team and Staff Sergeant Malmberg moved his convoy into a defensive posture to await clear passage of the route. Unbeknownst to Staff Sergeant Malmberg, an Anti-Iraqi Force of 30-40 fighters had established an ambush to the southwest of the IED cordon site. The area selected by the insurgents consisted of a well defined kill zone with berms running parallel to MSR Tampa at 100-200 meter intervals and canals running perpendicular to the MSR to allow for covered movement up to the MSR. Additionally median rails prevented any vehicles from crossing the MSR and exiting the kill zone. The enemy had established support by fire positions and were well drilled in fire and maneuver tactics. The warm dry night aided the enemy in concealing their ambush. The enemy initiated their ambush by firing RPGs and small arms at the Route Security Team's cordon directly to the front of Staff Sergeant Malmberg. Staff Sergeant Malmberg immediately directed his truck forward to support the route security element, engaging four to five enemy support by fire positions. Staff Sergeant Malmberg, while under enemy small arms fire, dismounted his truck to attempt to clear the road and allow his convoy to exit the kill zone. When unsuccessful in clearing the road, Staff Sergeant Malmberg coordinated fires, situational reports, and communications between the three units on the ground, air support, and sheriff net. Shortly after the execution of the ambush, Staff Sergeant Malmberg learned that the enemy had begun to mass fires at the rear of his convoy. He immediately directed his truck and an additional gun truck to the rear to support and safeguard his element. After several minutes exchanging gunfire, and unable to gain fire superiority, Staff Sergeant Malmberg identified the largest concentration of enemy fire and while under direct enemy fire, he dismounted his vehicle and engaged that position with an AT-4, eliminating any additional enemy fire from that location. Staff Sergeant Malmberg coordinated AH-64 Apache air support, directing his elements to mark enemy positions with infra-red lasers; however when they arrived on scene the enemy fire was so heavy that they were unable to remain on station. Over the next 35 minutes, Staff Sergeant Malmberg directed the actions of his five gun trucks and continually moved his truck to the area of heaviest fighting. On three separate occasions he dismounted his vehicle, under heavy and direct enemy small arms and RPG fire, in an attempt to coordinate passage of his convoy through the cordon element. Almost 40 minutes into the fierce battle and with his trucks low on ammunition, the enemy had closed to within 20 meters of the rear gun truck. The gunner was unable to depress his crew served weapon to engage at the close range. Staff Sergeant Malmberg immediately responded to the call for help and again, under direct and heavy enemy fire, selflessly exposed himself to deploy a hand grenade, engaging six enemy fighters positioned in a ditch and preparing to assault the convoy. His actions killed estimated 7-9 Anti-Iraqi Forces fighters and eliminated the threat of his convoy being overrun. Staff Sergeant Malmberg's gallant actions and determined leadership allowed his convoy, trapped in an enemy ambush for nearly 50 minutes, to dominate a numerically superior enemy fighting from prepared positions, without a single member of the convoy being wounded or killed in action, or loss of a single vehicle. His actions undoubtedly saved lives, at great risk to his own.
Born: at St. Paul, Minnesota
Home Town: St. Paul, Minnesota
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

MANGELS, JOHN E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John E. Mangels, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combat Company, 1st Battalion, 32d Infantry Regiment, during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 6 October 2006, in Afghanistan. First Sergeant Mangels was at vehicle patrol base Combat Main in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, when it came under fire on both sides of the Pech River the night of 6 October 2006. He directed return fire from a machine gun mounted on his vehicle. In an ensuing conflict, he was wounded in the head with shrapnel and lost consciousness. Regaining consciousness, he moved between fighting positions to rally his men and provide guidance. Only when the last wounded Soldier was evacuated from the fight did Mangels allow himself to be treated and eventually evacuated.
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

MARCKESANO, ANDREW C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Andrew C. Marckesano, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

MARCONE, ERNEST P.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Ernest Patrick Marcone, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving as a Battalion Commander, 3d Battalion, 69th Armored Regiment, 3d Infantry in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq. His unit was the "tip of the tip of the spear" in the advance toward Saddam International Airport on 3 to 4 April 2003 and successfully fought off a counterattack on a key bridge the night of 2 April 2003. Lieutenant Colonel Marcone's heroic leadership and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Rochester, New York

MARK, TODD D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Todd D. Mark, United States Army, for gallantry in action from 15 to 16 November 2010 during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a Ranger Canine Handler for a joint task force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Sergeant Mark's squad was tasked with interdicting enemy personnel when they came into contact with a section of enemy fighters in a fortified cave built into the side of a mountain. While clearing through the first engagement area, the squad leader for the interdiction element was fired upon from a machine gun inside the cave and mortally wounded. Sergeant Mark rushed to the cave entrance and fired into it, eliminating the machine gunner while exposing himself to enemy fire from within. He then stood his ground in front of the cave and continued to suppress the remaining enemy element within the cave, allowing the interdiction element to move the wounded Ranger to a covered position and render aid. Sergeant Mark's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this command and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Sergeant Todd D. Mark on November 15 to 16, 2010 distinguished himself by exceptionally heroic gallantry as a Ranger Canine Handler while deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Sergeant Mark's heroic actions under effective enemy fire preserved the lives of his fellow Rangers and were instrumental in the death of approximately 31 Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters, along with the decimation of a senior Taliban command. On November 16, 2010, while conducting combat operations in Konar Province, Afghanistan, Sergeant Mark and his dog moved with an assault element down a steep decline towards the targeted individuals after Staff Sergeant Pape established an over watching element on nearby high ground. The team first made contact with one enemy combatant. Staff Sergeant Pape killed this man after he fired one shot at the squad, then moved immediately to kill a second fighter who emerged from the same area. During this initial engagement, Sergeant Mark was positioned ten meters off Staff Sergeant Pape's right flank. When two more Taliban fighters approached the area off Staff Sergeant Pape's initial engagement area until Staff Sergeant Pape unknowingly exposed himself to a cave that contained 15 to 20 Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters. Staff Sergeant Pape unknowingly exposed himself to a cave that contained 15 to 20 Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters. Staff Sergeant Pape was mortally wounded by machinegun fire coming from this cave. Sergeant Mark immediately realized what had happened and recognized the threat that the cave now presented. Without hesitation, Sergeant Mark moved from the flanking position where he was standing to close the distance between him and the cave's entrance. As he did this, he engaged and killed the enemy machine gunner before he could acquire him as a target. Following Sergeant Mark's engagement, he was quickly joined by Sergeant Maynard as six to eight more fighters fled the cave. Immediately, Sergeant Maynard and Sergeant Mark engaged these enemy combatants as they attempted to flee, killing at least two of them. As Sergeant Maynard low-crawled to his fallen Squad Leader's position, Sergeant Mark remained exposed in front of the cave from a distance of five meters to provide security for Staff Sergeant Pape. As Sergeant Mark provided security, he contacted Sergeant 1st Class F on the radio, informed him of the situation, and talked him onto their location. When the platoon sergeant and medic arrived, Sergeant Mark calmly advised them of the enemy's disposition while attempting to acquire enemy targets in the cave. As Sergeant 1st Class F, Sergeant Maynard, and Staff Sergeant A moved to retrieve Staff Sergeant Pape from in front of the cave, they received two bursts of machine gun fire. From his exposed position within the enemy's field of fire, Sergeant Mark responded by once again engaging the machine gunner with his rifle. Sergeant Mark's fire was effective enough to either kill him or compel him to seek cover, enabling Staff Sergeant Pape to be retrieved from the cave entrance and relocated to a more covered position from which the platoon medic could provide aid. While under intense enemy fire, Sergeant Mark stood his ground and calmly engaged the enemy while preserving the lives of his fellow Rangers. Through his situational awareness and composure, he denied the enemy personnel who were attempting to flee the cave the chance to regroup and maneuver against his squad before the platoon could arrive to reinforce. In defense of a fallen comrade and to facilitate his extraction from the cave entrance, Sergeant Mark faced the enemy's machine gun fire twice, delivering lethal and suppressing fires while fully knowing the dangers to which he was exposing himself.
Home Town: Fredonia, New York

*MARSHALL, JOHN W. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to John W. Marshall, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, when his fuel and ammunition convoy that was resupplying soldiers during the second 'thunder run' south of Baghdad, Iraq, was attacked on 8 April 2003. Sergeant First Class Marshall defended his convoy, firing a Mark 19 automatic grenade launcher on an armored personnel vehicle until a rocket-propelled grenade, or RPG, blew his body out of the vehicle. His comrades found him several days later, buried by the enemy in a shallow grave. By exposing himself to danger and continuing to fire, he helped to save the convoy from being overrun.
Born: September 9, 1952 at Los Angeles, California
Home Town: Los Angeles, California
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

MARTIN, JOSEPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Joseph Martin, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 29 December, 2004, near Combat Outpost Tampa, in Iraq. Following a massive truck bomb attack that left one American dying and many others wounded, Sergeant Martin's Stryker was ambushed while racing to reinforce Combat Outpost Tampa when it too was attacked from ambush about a half mile from the Outpost. Sergeant Martin and a comrade prepared charges under the cover of the Strykers, then ran out to un-detonated and highly-unstable bombs previously placed by the insurgents. While enemy fire struck around them, the two men prepared their charges, detonating the IEDs and clearing the road.

MATLOCK, MATTHEW T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Matthew T. Matlock, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team, in action on 20 June 2008, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, in Afghanistan. On that date, Sergeant Matlock was showing some replacement troops the lay of the land in the Paktika province of Afghanistan when their small convoy was surprised by enemy small- arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades. A grenade struck the vehicle Sergeant Matlock was in, wounding three soldiers. Under fire and with shrapnel wounds himself, Sergeant Matlock evacuated the injured soldiers and gave them first aid. He fired back and directed his squad to return fire. He then used his body to shield other soldiers, receiving additional shrapnel wounds before the fighting ceased. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Amarillo, Texas

*MATTESON, JAMES (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to James Matteson, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 2d Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 11 November 2004, in Iraq. Staff Sergeant Matteson was a scout in the vanguard of the drive to capture Fallujah. On 11 November, 2004, under the cover of darkness, three of Sergeant Matteson's fellow scouts attacked an insurgent-held structure at a site called Objective Lion. Upon entering the building, all three scouts were hit by gunfire. Sergeant Matteson immediately threw a smoke grenade to provide concealment as he directed the evacuation of the scouts for medical treatment. He then supplied suppression fire allowing his men to launch a counter-attack on the building. The attack collapsed the structure, killing all of the insurgents inside. The next morning Sergeant Matteson was riding atop his MRK-19 grenade launcher, leading his task force, when insurgents ambushed the unit. Matteson jumped from his vehicle and again provided suppression fire, allowing the Bradley Fighting Vehicles and Abrams tanks to take positions and engage the enemy. From his exposed position, Sergeant Matteson continued firing his machine gun until an insurgent rocket cut him down.
Born: November 22, 1980 at Jamestown, New York
Home Town: Celorn, New York
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

MAYFIELD, KIRK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Kirk Mayfield, Captain, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while Commanding Troop F, 4th Cavalry, 1st Infantry Division, in combat against enemy forces in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, in November 2004, in Iraq. At the beginning of the attack on Fallujah, Captain Mayfield occupied an attack-by-fire position on the northeast edge of the city. From there he spent eight hours directing artillery, mortar and direct fire against an entrenched enemy platoon while himself under constant small-arms, grenade, sniper and mortar attack. His unit ultimately destroyed the enemy position, killing 30 insurgents just before the main attack. Once the assault began, he maintained his position ahead of the force and continued to direct fire against the enemy. His unit killed 75 insurgents during the first 30 hours of battle. Early in the battle, his unit opened a key highway and cut off the line of retreat for the insurgents. On the fourth day, he volunteered his troops in an 18-hour effort to clear 60 houses, battle enemy fighters literally room-to-room, killing 25 insurgents.

MAYNARD, DYLAN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Dylan J. Maynard, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 16 November 2010 during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a Ranger Fire Team Leader and Ranger Squad Leader for Joint Task Force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Sergeant Maynard confronted and destroyed several Taliban fighters at close range as they attempted to maneuver against friendly forces. When his squad leader became mortally wounded, Sergeant Maynard moved into the field of fire of an enemy machine gun to pull his wounded comrade to safety. Later while fighting to secure a medical evacuation helicopter landing zone. Sergeant Maynard moved through intense effective enemy fire to recover another fellow Ranger who had been shot and rolled down a slope towards the enemy's position. Sergeant Maynard's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this command and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: On November 16, 2010, while conducting combat operations in Konar Province, Afghanistan, Sergeant Maynard's squad was the leading interdiction team in an effort to capture several individuals who had fled ahead of the clearing element. The squad met with fierce enemy fire from a section-sized enemy force as the closed with the individuals who had moved from a series of buildings. The interdiction team first made contact with one enemy combatant. Staff Sergeant Kevin Pape killed the combatant after he fired one shot at the squad, then moved immediately to kill a second fighter who emerged from his position. During this initial engagement, Sergeant Maynard was positioned on nearby high ground that allowed him to cover Staff Sergeant Pape while he moved. When two more Taliban fighters approached the area of Staff Sergeant Pape's initial engagement, Sergeant Maynard killed them both before they could become more of a threat. While clearing through the enemy dead, Staff Sergeant Pape had unknowingly exposed himself to a cave which housed 15 to enemy personnel, what the unit would later learn was the command and control node for the enemy in this area. Staff Sergeant Pape was mortally wounded with machine gun fire from this cave. Upon seeing Staff Sergeant Pape fall to the ground, Sergeant Maynard jumped down off of a six-foot rock ledge and low crawled to Staff Sergeant Pape's position and attempted to pull him back. When he could not pull him back behind cover, Sergeant Maynard moved to cover and over-watch the cave until the rest of his element made it down the ridge line. When his Platoon Sergeant and Medic arrived, Sergeant Maynard immediately moved with two other Rangers to retrieve Staff Sergeant Pape from in front of the cave. As they came into the field of view of the cave, an enemy machine gun opened upon them. With Staff Sergeant Mark suppressing, Sergeant Maynard consciously stayed exposed to the fire coming from the cave in order to move Staff Sergeant Pape out of harm's way and initiated medical care. While still exposed to the cave's aperture, Sergeant Maynard worked tirelessly with the platoon medic for an hour to treat Staff Sergeant Pape, but he was gravely wounded and died. Sergeant Maynard then assumed responsibility as Squad Leader, and maneuvered their casualty to the MEDEVAC HLZ. While fighting to secure the HLZ against effective and precise small-arms fire from all sides, Sergeant Maynard killed one Taliban fighter who was shooting at his squad from inside the wooded slope to the west. During this fight, a Ranger sustained a gunshot wound to his neck and jaw, and fell approximately ten feet off of a path leading into the HLZ, rolling downhill to the west, towards the enemy. After locating the wounded Ranger, Sergeant Maynard identified him in the wooded slope approximately 40 meters away, laying wounded and exposed between the enemy and his fellow Rangers at the HLZ. Sergeant Maynard and two other Rangers off of the terrace wall and sprinted to the wounded Ranger, all the while under intense small-arms fire from multiple enemy personnel. While still under fire, Sergeant Maynard and his recover team secured the wounded Ranger and fought their way back to the HLZ. Once at the HLZ, Sergeant Maynard assisted in destroying the enemy to the west by observing and correcting several fire missions into the wooded slope, as well as leading his squad in suppressing the enemy with direct-fire. Sergeant Maynard continued to fight and give directions to his men until the medical evacuation helicopter arrived to evacuate the platoon's casualties. Sergeant Maynard displayed immeasurable courage during an intense firefight with a determined and capable enemy. He fought bravely and provided the leadership that his squad needed in a difficult time. As per the Ranger Creed, he knowingly exposed himself multiple times to a high volume of enemy fire in order to retrieve a fallen comrade and save his life.
Home Town: Woodbury, Vermont

McBRIDE, ROBERT R.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Robert Ray McBride, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM while serving with the 2d Armored Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, on 3 June 2004, at Al Kufa, Iraq. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: On 3 Jun 2004, Iron Troop, 3d Squadron, 2d ACR received the mission to capture or destroy an enemy 120-mm. mortar position located in an Iraqi school approximately 300 meters north west of the Al Kuffa Mosque in Al Kuffa, Iraq. These mortar systems had been plaguing FOBs Baker and Golf for weeks as well as having significant effect on patrols outside of the FOBs. Because of the mortar being positioned within 300 meters of the Kufa Mosque the mortar position could not be reduced with indirect fires. The school compound consisted of three large buildings the largest and central of the three being a three story The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Harold Hays, United States Army, for "I" shaped building. I had 12 HMMWVs scout trucks, a truck mounted mortar section consisting of three HMMWVs and nine mortar men, and a tank platoon at my disposal to execute the mission. The plan called for the scouts establish the outer cordon by occupying blocking positions around the school along avenues of approach from the Al Kuffa Mosque. A section from the tank platoon would establish the inner cordon by occupying an attack by fire position east of the objective while the remaining two tanks acted as my reserve. Staff Sergeant McBride's mortar section would conduct a mounted attack to seize the enemy mortar system once the inner and outer cordons had been set. Iron Troop crossed the line of departure at 0530 on the morning of 3 Jun 2004. Shortly after LD, insurgents attacked Iron Troop with a series of command-detonated mines that had been buried in the road leading up to the objective. Staff Sergeant McBride maneuvered his section through the mines and established his attack position on the far side of the minefield in conjunction with the troop command post. Immediately after establishing his attack position and while the outer cordon was being established, Staff Sergeant McBride's section, the troop command post, and the lead scouts made contact with a platoon size element of insurgents. An enemy RPG wounded three scouts in the outer cordon. The troop command post came under heavy mortar and small arms fire while the First Sergeant received the three wounded scouts and prepared them for evacuation from the troop command post. Acting on his own, Staff Sergeant McBride positioned himself and his vehicle between the casualties and the enemy small arms fire coming from the objective to protect the casualty evacuation operations. He immediately began directing the counter attack efforts against insurgents who had attacked the troop command post. His efforts and leadership under fire broke up the enemy attack, facilitated the evacuation of the wounded scouts, and allowed the troop commander to manage the fight to establish the outer cordon and inner cordon. After committing the reserve to reestablish the outer cordon, the troop commander ordered Staff Sergeant McBride to execute his mission to destroy or capture the mortar system on the now isolated objective. While under constant mortar and small arms fire, he moved his mounted section from the attack position to the objective where he quickly organized his team into a support by fire element and an assault element. A six-foot rock wall surrounded the schoolyard and blocked Staff Sergeant McBride's entrance onto the objective. Staff Sergeant McBride quickly breached the wall by having one of the M1 Abrams in the inner cordon knock a section of the wall down. Upon entering the yard, enemy insurgents engaged Staff Sergeant McBride and his team from inside the school as he attempted to secure the now unmanned enemy mortar systems that were on the objective. Realizing the danger of his exposed position, Staff Sergeant McBride again organized his now eight-man squad into a support by fire element and an assault element to begin clearing the school. While organizing his men to clear the school, a HMMWV gunner in an adjacent platoon who could see over the wall surrounding the school alerted Staff Sergeant McBride to six insurgents maneuvering around the school building to attack Staff Sergeant McBride and his men. Staff Sergeant McBride immediately executed a lone attack into the entrance of the school that had yet to be cleared. Upon entering the first classroom alone, he made visual contact through a window with the insurgents moving outside the classroom and around the building to flank his men. Staff Sergeant McBride prepared a fragmentation grenade, moved to the window through which he could see the insurgents, and attacked with his grenade resulting in six enemy killed in action. His swift action broke the enemy counterattack and saved his men's lives as none of the gun trucks or the tanks could place machine gun fires into the schoolyard. Staff Sergeant McBride's actions decimated the enemy force inside the objective and set the conditions to continue the troop's attack to secure the enemy mortar systems we had set out to destroy or capture. After single-handedly destroying the local counterattack, Staff Sergeant McBride continued to clear the school building with the rest of his men. Simultaneously, the outer cordon came under attack from two separate platoon size elements. The inner cordon just outside the walls of the school reported they were receiving small arms fire from the roof of the school building as well. Without orders, Staff Sergeant McBride began clearing the upper floors of the school where he was met with heavy small arms fire as he attempted to gain access to the roof. Again Staff Sergeant McBride along with one other soldier prepared fragmentation grenades and threw them onto the roof of the school building. The insurgents leapt from the roof of the school to avoid Staff Sergeant McBride's grenades but died as a result of their fall. After destroying the remaining enemy on the objective, Staff Sergeant McBride continued to collect the enemy equipment and mortar systems. While gathering up the mortar systems, the enemy continued to place accurate mortar fires onto the objective and the troop command post. The enemy also continued to counter attack the outer cordon with dismounted elements in an attempt to retake their recently captured mortars. Throughout the enemy counter attack, Staff Sergeant McBride fearlessly led his men in collecting the enemy equipment that had to be moved from inside the schoolyard to his trucks outside the rock wall surrounding the school. Every time Staff Sergeant McBride and his men moved outside the schoolyard, they were met with small arms fire, yet he continued to gather and secure the enemy equipment. Staff Sergeant McBride withdrew his men only after ordered by the troop commander to break contact with the enemy. Ten enemy insurgents lay dead on the objective after Staff Sergeant McBride and his men broke off their attack and withdrew from the objective. Over 40 insurgents lay dead outside the walls of the school and in the alleyways around the school. Staff Sergeant McBride and his men captured one 120-mm. mortar system and two 82mm mortar systems along with a large cache of ammunition for all three mortars. They also captured numerous AK 47s and RPGs from the dead inside the schoolyard. The success of the raid rests squarely on the shoulders of Staff Sergeant Robert McBride and his valorous actions on 3 June 2004.
Home Town: Roscoe, Texas

McCAFFERTY, BRIAN D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Brian D. McCafferty, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

McCARTHY, EDMUND C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Edmund C. McCarthy, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

McCARTY, MICHAEL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael McCarty, First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 3d Battalion, 153d Infantry Regiment, 39th Brigade Combat Team, in combat against enemy forces in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 20 November 2004, near Adhamiya, Iraq. First Lieutenant McCarty's platoon was patrolling in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad when his platoon was attacked by a numerically superior enemy force. Facing rocket propelled grenades, medium machine guns and small arms fire, Lieutenant McCarty continually exposed himself in order to acquire targets and direct fire, at one point single-handedly charging and destroying an enemy machine gun. In all, his team stopped an enemy three-man machine-gun team and a force of about 75 insurgents. Lieutenant McCarty's actions were responsible for saving American lives, destroying enemy forces, and preventing capture of an Iraqi Police Station.
Home Town: Bald Knob, Arkansas

*McCLINTOCK, MATTHEW Q. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class Matthew Quinn McClintock, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as an Engineer Sergeant, Operational Detachment Alpha 9115 (ODA-9115), Company A, 1st Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group, Advance Operations Base-South during Operation FREEDOM's SENTINEL in support of resolute support mission on 5 January 2016. Without hesitation or regard for his personal safety, Sergeant First Class McClintock repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to provide life-saving treatment and secure medical evacuation for a wounded teammate. He was mortally wounded while courageously maneuvering through heavy enemy fire to secure a helicopter landing zone and medical evacuation for his wounded comrade. Sergeant First Class McClintock, through his heroism, has earned our nation's unwavering admiration. His gallantry and selfless commitment to his fellow Soldiers and teammates are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect distinct credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Washington

McCORMICK, JAMES L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant James L. McCormick, II, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1487th Transportation Company, 112th Transportation Battalion, on 11 April 2004 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Second Lieutenant McCormick, without regard for his life and while exposed to continuous enemy fire, suffering two separate gun shot wounds to the hand and leg in previous engagements and a third gun shot absorbed by his SAPI-Chest plate, led the defense of a logistical staging area in Baghdad under intense enemy direct and indirect fire. Seeing a section of the perimeter exposed and under attack, Second Lieutenant McCormick led Soldiers to a position to prevent enemy penetration of the compound. Posting himself in the gunner's hatch of his M998 HMMWV for command and control he led Soldiers of various units within the compound into defensive positions. Second Lieutenant McCormick's exceptional gallantry, courage and leadership saved hundreds of lives, protected critical military assets and inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy. His conspicuous gallantry, intrepidity and superior leadership are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1487th Transportation Company, the 112th Transportation Battalion and the United States Army.
Home Town: Scott Depot, West Virginia

McCOY, JEFFREY D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Jeffrey Dean McCoy, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Troop C, 3d Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, in Iraq, from 22 March 2003 to 25 March 2003. Captain McCoy's performance as the Commander of Crazyhorse Troop during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM has been nothing short of extraordinary. His outstanding combat leadership and the battlefield successes have set a modern example of aggressive cavalry troop operations and reflect great credit upon himself, the troopers of Crazyhorse Troop, 3d Squadron, 7th U.S. Cavalry "Garry Owen", and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: For Valorous Service during combat operations against forces of Iraq while commanding Crazyhorse Troop, 3d Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM from 22 to 25 March 2003. Captain McCoy displayed great heroism and combat leadership throughout the entire campaign, constantly leading his troop form the front and employing them to defeat each and every Iraqi force he came on contact with. On the morning of 22 March 2003, Crazyhorse lead the squadron attack to seize OBJ CHATHAM (As Samawah). The Squadron further divided this objective into two smaller objectives, PISTOL and SABER, both of which centered on key bridge crossings along the 3d Infantry Division's planned route of march. Crazyhorse seized both OBJ PISTOL and SABER in rapid fashion. On Objective PISTOL Iraqi light infantry forces fought desperately to hold onto the bridge site but were destroyed by Captain McCoy's brilliant employment of his Troop's direct fire systems augmented by the Squadron's KIOWA Warriors, the direct support howitzer battery and CAS from the U.S. Air Force. Captain McCoy continued until he was reinforced by Apache troop and enemy resistance in the area was neutralized. Throughout the entire engagement, Captain McCoy constantly maintained control of these vital crossing sites thereby facilitating the rapid advance of the 1st Raider Brigade into zone while destroying over 120 Iraqi soldiers and para-military forces, 1xTank, 3xArtillery pieces and numerous automatic and air defense weapons. On the morning of 25 March 2003, during an intense sand storm that reduced visibility to less than 50 meters, Crazyhorse Troop crossed the Euphrates River southe3ast of An Jajaf and to relieve Bonecrusher Troop on OBJ FLOYD (Abu Sukhayr, Iraq) and maintain the one and only bridge crossing over the Euphrates that the division had to sustain its lines of communications. For the next 3 days Iraqi military and paramilitary forces attacked Crazyhorse Troop with an intensity that had been unmatched during this conflict. With the Squadron Commander and TAC decisively engaged while located more than 24 km to the north and out of direct radio contact, Captain McCoy was truly the commander in charge of the fight at OBJ FLOYD. Iraqi forces attacked the troop with T-72 tanks and BMPs, light infantry, dump trucks, cars and even suicide bombers driving fully loaded 5,000-gallon fuel trucks directly at the Troop's defenses. Captain McCoy's performance during this time was incredible. He fought his troop superbly, fully employing every asset available to him from his own tanks and Bradleys to individual small arms to MLRS and even air strikes by B-1 bombers flying in close support of the Division. Captain McCoy and his trooper's actions during this period of time were nothing short of extraordinary. Practically cut off from friendly forces, receiving re-supply and evacuation only when the squadron was able to gather the assets to provide tracked escort to its supply vehicles, Captain McCoy displayed indisputable heroism and superb tactical intuition as he fought his troop to maintain his objective. Upon relief by the 2d BCT, Crazyhorse had destroyed over 20 tanks and personnel carriers, 52 trucks, and 7 vehicles driven by suicide bombers. Captain McCoy and his Crazyhorse troopers continued to perform superbly in support of the Squadron and the Division. Crazyhorse successfully screened key terrain in sector as part of the squadron's guard along PL ST LOUIS denied Iraqi forces access to Baghdad from the West. His aggressive actions not only protected the flank of the Squadron's main effort troop during an intense mounted action vicinity OBJ MONTGOMERY, but also accounted for the destruction of over 10 enemy tanks, personnel carriers, air defense weapons and numerous small arms and ammunition caches. Captain McCoy's performance as the Commander of Crazyhorse Troop during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM has been nothing short of extraordinary. His outstanding combat leadership and the battlefield successes have set a modern example of aggressive cavalry troop operations and reflect great credit upon himself, the troopers of Crazyhorse Troop, 3d Squadron, 7th U.S. Cavalry "Garry Owen", and the United States Army.
Home Town: Leadville, Colorado

McGUIRE, SHAWN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Shawn McGuire, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 18th Engineer Company, 3d Brigade, 2d Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 16 March 2007, in Baquba, Iraq. On that date, Staff Sergeant McGuire's engineer platoon was attacked with a complex ambush. Despite being injured twice due to an Improvised Explosive Device and Rocket Propelled Grenade attack, Staff Sergeant McGuire assumed the duties as Platoon Sergeant, organized a counter attack against insurgent forces, and coordinated casualty evacuation which saved the lives of several wounded Soldiers.

McINERNEY, MICHAEL J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael J. McInerney, Chief Warrant Officer, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 2d Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), in action in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM from 25 August to 4 September 2003. While participating in Operation MOUNTAIN VIPER, Chief Warrant Officer McInerney was told by local Afghans that hundreds of Taliban fighters were holed up in nearby villages and in the mountains above them. Warrant Officer McInerney led his detachment of 12 Special Forces soldiers into the jagged hills in pursuit. With about 200 Afghan militiamen, they tracked the Taliban on foot up the hot, dusty valleys that crease the 9,000-foot peaks north of Dai Chupan, in southern Zabul province. Chief Warrant Officer McInerney and his team fought three battles and called in airstrikes to dislodge the enemy from the high ground. Scores of Taliban fighters were killed, with only one American soldier of the team wounded. Chief Warrant Officer McInerney's bravery, tactical proficiency, professionalism and complete fearlessness in the face of the enemy reflect the highest credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Springfield, Virginia

*McLAUGHLIN, MICHAEL E. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Michael E. McLaughlin, Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the Brigade Effects Coordinator, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division (Mechanized), Camp Ar Ramadi, Iraq, from 4 December 2005 to 5 January 2006, in action against enemy forces during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, at Ar Ramadi, Iraq. Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin's gallant leadership, personal bravery and selfless actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 28th Infantry Division, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Lieutenant Colonel Michael E. McLaughlin, distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service to the United States as the Brigade Effects Coordinator, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division (Mechanized), Camp Ar Ramadi, Iraq, from 4 December 2005 to 5 January 2006. Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin demonstrated outstanding professional skill, knowledge and leadership both prior to and during the Iraqi Police recruiting events during the week of 2 January 2006. As the Brigade Effects Coordinator, Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin was instrumental in conducting key leader engagements. He personally met on numerous occasions with the Sheiks and the Governor of Al Anbar province in order to foster the participation of the local populace in economic and political progress, and further the transition of Al Anbar province into a unified Iraqi nation. As a result, he was a major contributing factor to the overwhelming turnout of Iraqi Police (IP) recruits at the "Glass Factory" in western Ar Ramadi during the 2 to 5 January 2006 IP recruiting drive. During this period, 750 recruits were screened, in comparison to "0" at the previous event. Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin was not content with orchestrating and planning behind the scenes, but was an officer that led from the front. On 5 January 2006 he was personally present with his team at the Glass Factory in order to interact with the potential recruits and ensure that the Brigade Information Operations themes and messages were personally delivered to the IP recruits. Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin arrived at the scene at approximately 0800 on 5 January, and immediately assessed the situation and the unusually high number of IP recruits. At great personal risk and courage, he team commingled in a crowd of over 300 civilian recruits, in spite of known intelligence reports indicating the possibility of both grenade and SVBIED attacks. He immediately took charge of the situation, instructing his Soldiers to be on the lookout for civilians capable of concealing weapons or explosive devices. Through his interpreter, he orchestrated with his charismatic leadership and organizational abilities the abnormally large crowd into a semblance of order. He further directed Iraqi Security Forces to treat the IP recruits with dignity and respect, in order to instill a semblance of unity and purpose among the Iraqi people in the immediate area. Subsequently, a suicide bomber infiltrated the crowd and detonated an explosive device, killing and wounding numerous Iraqi civilians, and ISF/CF Soldiers. At this time, Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin was struck in the head by shrapnel. One of his Soldiers, Specialist Gibson, himself wounded in the shoulder by shrapnel, immediately checked Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin for wounds, who in turn, in an act of extreme selflessness, stated that he was okay, but to concentrate on saving the lives of his men. Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin succumbed shortly thereafter to his wounds. Throughout the period, Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin displayed extreme personal courage, selfless service and dedication to duty. He was a charismatic leader that always led from the front, and was the consummate professional, fully committed in word and deed to empowering the Iraqi people to pursue political and economic progress and to end the insurgency in the Al Anbar Province. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect distinct credit upon himself, this Command, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Mercer, Pennsylvania
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

*McMAHON, JASON. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain Jason T. McMahon, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving as Company Commander 744th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 184th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 5 September 2010, in Afghanistan. While under hostile fire in Laghman Province, Afghanistan, Captain McMahon fearlessly exposed himself to accurate enemy small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades while directing the fires of his Soldiers against enemy insurgents. Completely exposed to the enemy fire and with complete disregard to his own personal safety, Captain McMahon sacrificed his shelter, ensuring that his Soldiers were able to fully utilize the limited available cover. This action ensured his Soldiers' safety and saved their lives. Captain McMahon's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 184th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion and the United States Army.
Home Town: Valdosta, Georgia

*McMULLEN, MICHAEL J. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Michael J. McMullen, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a M915 Heavy Wheeled Vehicle Operator of the 243d Engineer Company, 143d Transportation Command, during a combat convoy in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 24 December 2005, in Iraq. Staff Sergeant McMullen's bravery in response to an IED attack saved the life of Sergeant Divel by moving him away from a burning vehicle, extinguishing the flames on his body and protecting him when a second IED went off. Staff Sergeant McMullen received wounds which ultimately cost him his life. His sacrifice and commitment reflect great credit upon himself, the 243rd Engineer Company and the United States Army.
Born: May 27, 1980 at Pennsylvania Home Town: Salisbury, Maryland
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

McQUADE, SEAN P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Sean P. McQuade, Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combat Company, 1st Battalion, 32d Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 22 April 2007, near Shudergay Village, Afghanistan. Captain McQuade's outstanding leadership, personal bravery and selfless actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 10th Mountain Division, and the United States Army.

NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD:
Captain Sean P. McQuade distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combat Company, 1st Battalion, 32d Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 22 April 2007, near Shudergay Village, Afghanistan. On the morning of 22 April 2007, 2d Platoon, Combat Company was conducting a cordon and search of Shudergay village when the platoon became engaged by 30-40 enemy personnel. The enemy used 15 - 20 fighting positions and engaged the element for over 17 hours using AK-47s, PKMs, sniper rifles, RPKs and RPGs. The platoon initially took fire from an enemy OP approximately 200 meters west of the village. Captain McQuade ordered Sergeant Mayes to engage the enemy position with his 60-mm. mortars and personally moved forward under small arms fire to assess the situation. While moving forward a Soldier had a weapons malfunction; Captain McQuade moved next to the Soldier and provided covering fire so the Soldier could correct his malfunction. After the enemy OP was destroyed Captain McQuade ordered the Platoon to secure the village. While moving towards the first house the Platoon was again engaged by the enemy. Under enemy fire Captain McQuade moved forward for a quick assessment, radioed it to his Commander and requested CAS and moved his Platoon forward and cleared the village, occupying a house to use as a CP. Captain McQuade requested the scheduled re-supply and as the helicopter was making its approach, the enemy opened fire on the helicopter and the patrol base, resulting in one helicopter crew member and ANA Soldier receiving gunshot wounds. Captain McQuade ordered his medic to attend to the wounded Soldier and left the house to get a better assessment as enemy rounds impacted in and around the CP. Captain McQuade realized that every one of his positions was receiving heavy enemy small arms fire. The enemy held the high ground and his entire element was pinned down, to include his CASEVAC element. Captain McQuade's CP then began to receive heavy accurate small arms fire preventing his headquarters element from moving to a different location. Despite the enemy engaging his CP with accurate small arms and sniper fire that was piercing through the windows and ricocheting throughout the room, with complete disregard for his personal safety Captain McQuade positioned himself to gain better observation on the battlefield and called for fire from the 81-mm. and 120-mm. mortars and 155 artillery. Once the AH-64's arrived he immediately began vectoring them in onto the enemy positions and destroying them. Due to Captain McQuade's accurate calls for fire, the Apaches had to rearm six separate times to support his element. As the A-10's arrived on station he directed the CAS onto the ridgeline where there were multiple bunkers, caves and fighting positions. Once again, despite heavy enemy fire, Captain McQuade quickly verified the location of all of his troops, and ordered the A-10 to drop ordnance on the enemy fighting positions. The fighting continued throughout the day. Around dusk the sniper, along with a heavy volume of small arms fire, began to accurately reengage the platoon. Captain McQuade then vectored a B-1 onto the new enemy targets. After dark an AC-l30 arrived, Captain McQuade identified enemy locations for the AC-l30 and with his Commander's approval engaged the enemy positions and personnel that were attempting to exfil. Captain McQuade's element soon gained fire superiority over the fleeting enemy forces. His ability to remain calm under fire and direct the CAS onto targets eliminated over 80 percent of the contact the platoon was taking during the 17-hour fight. Captain McQuade's total disregard for his own personal safety, in order to suppress enemy fighting positions with the use of multiple CAS platforms, exemplifies what it means to be a combat leader. His valorous actions under intense enemy fire display his personal courage, his dedication to duty and his men. Captain McQuade's actions were directly responsible for killing a key ACM Sub commander Habib Jan, whom Coalition Forces had been targeting for three years and had been responsible for multiple Coalition Force casualties. His actions also led to the destruction of Habib Jan's ACM cell killing over 20 ACM fighters.
Home Town: York, Maine

MERCADO, MATTHEW R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Matthew R. Mercado, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with Company D, 2d Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM near Tarmiyah, Iraq, on 18 April 2007. Sergeant First Class Mercado's gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Cavalry Division, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Jonesboro, Arkansas

*METCALFE, DANIEL T. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class Daniel T. Metcalfe, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving with the 2d Battalion, 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team, at Sayyid Abad, Afghanistan, on 29 September 2012, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Liverpool, New York

*MEYER, HARRISON J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Harrison J. Meyer, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Medical Aidman in Company D, 1st Battalion, 503d Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 2d Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 26 November 2004, in Iraq. Around noon on that date, Private First Class Meyer and the rest of 3d Platoon, Company D were in the 20th hour of a patrol extended by clashes with insurgents. They'd just taken up post in an abandoned building in the Mula'ab district when a soldier was hit by sniper fire. Private First Class Meyer rushed up the stairs and treated a gunshot wound to the chest of Private Brian Grant. Though Private Grant later died in a hospital, Private First Class Meyer treated and comforted him until he was evacuated to an aid station. The platoon moved out of the building to find the sniper, but as they sprinted across a street toward the sniper's perch, heavy machine-gun fire raked the patrol. Four soldiers were hit in the legs and were stuck wounded in the open street. Private First Class Meyer himself had been shot in the calf and lower abdomen, but was able to move back to cover. The platoon couldn't suppress the incoming fire. Ignoring his own wounds, and without orders, Private First Class Meyer ran out to try to move his wounded colleagues to safety. Placing himself between the wounded soldiers and the enemy, he was struck by machine gun rounds multiple times and mortally wounded.
Home Town: Worthington, Ohio

MEYER, JOHN A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John Andrew Meyer, United States Army, for exceptional gallantry as a Platoon Leader in Troop B, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry (Airborne), 173d Airborne Brigade, during combat operations on 27 July 2007, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM VII, in Afghanistan. First Lieutenant Meyer's courage under fire and commitment to mission accomplishment exemplify the warrior ethos. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect distinct credit upon himself, B Troop, Task Force SABER, Combined Task Force BAYONET, CJTF-82 and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: For exceptional gallantry during military operations against a hostile force in Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 27 July 2007. First Lieutenant John Meyer distinguished himself as the Platoon Leader for 2d Platoon, B Troop. Early morning on 27 July, First Lieutenant Meyer's platoon moved into the town of Saret Kholeh along with a sniper team and Bulldawg 6's Headquarters section. They completed a key leader engagement and village assessment, and the patrol continued movement into positions along the southeastern portion of the village when they began taking fire. An enemy force of over 100 fighters attacked his patrol from the north, northeast, and south. First Lieutenant Meyer directed his platoon to fighting positions and returned effective fire. He masterfully employed all of the available assets to include his 60-mm. mortar, indirect fires, and Close Air Support. Due to the ferocity of his direct, indirect and close air support fires, the enemy was forced to break contact. This lull in the fight enabled him to evacuate three casualties safely. The enemy re-organized and reinforced his attack, initiating with heavy RPG, small arms, and sniper fire on Bulldawg 6's position and on the platoon. With his commander fallen, First Lieutenant Meyer immediately took charge of the situation on the ground. He and his platoon fiercely returned fire on the enemy while coordinating for link-up with the QRF to attack by fire and secure casualties. With enemy fire erupting all around him, First Lieutenant Meyer calmly reported enemy locations to First Lieutenant Roller who brought CAS and indirect fires to bear on the enemy. Although exposed to heavy enemy fire and with no regard for his personal safety, First Lieutenant Meyer orchestrated the efforts of both platoons sustaining effective suppressive fire while ensuring accountability of personnel and equipment. With the position consolidated and casualties secured, First Lieutenant Meyer directed the elements on the ground to displace to more defensible terrain where the troop could continue to fight with fires while completing casualty evacuation with air MEDEVAC. His expert placement of both mounted and dismounted elements and hic coordination of direct suppressive fires enabled them to move through heavy enemy fire, sustaining light casualties but no additional seriously wounded. While on the road, First Lieutenant Meyer was in full control of his element, giving effective orders in the face of heavy fire from a numerically superior enemy force. First Lieutenant Meyer's actions were decisive in the fight. In the face of intense enemy fire and despite the loss of his commander, he took command on the ground, and directed the fight brilliantly. His actions saved the lives of many of his comrades. His extraordinary heroism under fire exemplifies the Warrior Ethos and stand as a timeless example of combat leadership under extreme duress. His professionalism, selfless commitment to mission success and care for his Soldiers were instrumental to B Troop, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry (Airborne), Task Force SABER, Combined Task Force BAYONET, and CJTF-82 in Afghanistan.

MIDDLEBROOK, JOSHUA L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Joshua L. Middlebrook, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

MIDDLETON, CRAIG H.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Craig H. Middleton, United States Army, for exceptional gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States as a MATV Gunner, A Troop, 3d Squadron, 4th United States Cavalry, International Security Forces-Afghanistan, on 16 November 2011, during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. The gallant actions of Private First Class Middleton are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflected marked distinction upon himself, International Security Assistance Forces-Afghanistan, the United States Army, and the Department of Defense. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Private First Class Craig H. Middleton, United States Army, distinguished himself by exceptional gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States as a MATV Gunner, A Troop, 3d Squadron, 4th United States Cavalry, International Security Forces-Afghanistan, on 16 November 2011, during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. On 16 November 2011, 2/A/3-4 Cavalry, led the Troop on a route reconnaissance mission into the southern Nazyan District in the Nangahar Province. The planned route forced the platoon to operate in restrictive, mountainous, desert terrain on a clear day with unlimited visibility. As the platoon approached Check Point 9, a rehearsed, well entrenched enemy force of unknown composition massed fires on the platoon of five MATV's as it maneuvered in a valley and wadi system surrounded by steep, terraced terrain to its north and south. The initial volley of RPGs simultaneously struck the first three vehicles at 0903. The second vehicle in the order was the A21 MATV, commanded by Lieutenant Hubert and Private First Class Middleton serving as gunner, with two USAF JTACs occupying the rear seats. In the initial volley, A21 was struck by an RPG in the right rear door window from a high angle and a range of 150 - 200 meters. The projectile penetrated the crew compartment, causing multiple fragment wounds to the gunner's legs and groin and life threatening wounds to the two rear occupants. Private First Class Middleton, despite his wounds, identified the signature of the RPG and returned fire on the enemy position, expending all available Mk 19 rounds. After suppressing the position, Private First Class Middleton responded to the screams of Airman Douglas in the right rear seat. His initial assessment revealed a penetrating wound to his left bicep, exposing flesh and bone. Private First Class Middleton retrieved a tourniquet from A1C Douglas IFAK and applied it to stop the profuse bleeding. Moments later, a second RPG impacted A21, which caused Private First Class Middleton to one again occupy his turret and immediately identify hostile forces in the southern elevated terrain. He deemed the angle too steep for the Mk 19 and shouldered his M4 rifle to return fire. Private First Class Middleton identified multiple positions and with total disregard for his own safety, expended nearly 100 rounds against a determined enemy, even as small arms impacted the protective shield on his turret. His actions, and that of the platoon, inflicted estimated losses against the enemy force in excess of 25 Enemy Killed in Action. As the enemy fire withered and became less accurate, Private First Class Middleton returned to the vehicle interior to assess the wounds of Senior Airman Orellana in the left rear seat. Private First Class Middleton immediately identified a traumatic amputation of two fingers on his left hand and applied a life-saving tourniquet below the elbow to stem the bleeding. He continued to evaluate for more wounds and recognized severe bleeding to the right leg of Senior Airman Orellana from his groin to his ankle. Having exhausted the medical supplies, Private First Class Middleton received the last tourniquet from the driver and applied it under extremely stressful conditions as the vehicle interior was filled with smoke, blood and the cries of the wounded. Recognizing the gravity and severity of the wounded, due to reports form Private First Class Middleton, Lieutenant Hubert proceeded to the CCP with what he though were only two Urgent casualties. Once at the CCP, Private First Class Middleton assisted in removing and preparing the two casualties for air MEDEVAC. Only after they received medical attention did he reveal his wounds caused by the initial blast and allow himself to be treated and proceed to further medical care. The gallant actions of Private First Class Middleton are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflected marked distinction upon himself, International Security Assistance Forces-Afghanistan, the United States Army, and the Department of Defense.
Home Town: Sevierville, Tennessee

MIKE, JASON L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jason L. Mike, Specialist, U.S. Army, for exceptionally valorous achievement during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Specialist Mike's heroic actions on 20 March 2005, during combat operations in Iraq, contributed to the overwhelming success of the Multi National Corps-Iraq mission. While serving as the Medic for RAVEN 42, in the 617th Military Police Company, 503d Military Police Battalion (Airborne), the 18th Military Police Brigade, Specialist Mike supported a counterattack of anti-Iraq forces (AIF) who were ambushing a convoy with heavy AK-47 assault rifle fire, RPK machine gun fire, and rocket propelled grenades. He engaged the AIF with his M-9 until his fellow soldiers fell injured. Specialist Mike immediately pulled the wounded soldiers out of the line of direct fire and returned fire with the injured soldiers' weapons. When the threat was eliminated he provided medical aid to his critically wounded comrades. His actions saved the lives of the three wounded soldiers and numerous convoy members. Specialist Mike's bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of the 503d Military Police Battalion (Airborne), the 18th Military Police Brigade, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Jacksonville, Florida

MILES, DAVID
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David Miles, Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Operational Detachment Alpha 583 (ODA- 583) 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq, on 7 April 2003. During the invasion of Baghdad, Master Sergeant Miles and his team were ambushed by enemy fighters at a bridge overpass in southern Baghdad. Outnumbered 20-to-1, three members of Master Sergeant Miles' group got pinned down under the intense firefight and were unable to escape. Master Sergeant Miles organized the recovery mission as the enemies continued to attack. He performed first aid on two of his team members, one of whom would have bled to death without treatment. He was able to carry both of them to safety. In all, Master Sergeant Miles killed or directed the killing of up to 20 Saddam loyalists.
Home Town: Powellton, West Virginia

MILLER, JOSHUA
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Joshua Miller, Specialist, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, at Mosul, Iraq. Specialist Miller voluntarily placed himself in peril to save the life of a fellow soldier when his foot-patrol squad was ambushed by insurgents. He single- handedly fended off a 20-man assault on his squad's position. Then, under heavy fire, he managed to rescue his vehicle commander, who was trapped in debris.

MILLER, MCKENNA
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant McKenna Frank Miller, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), in action on 17 December 2010, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Kapisa Province, Afghanistan. On that date, Captain David Fox, three French engineers, an interpreter, an Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) commander and Sergeant Miller were conducting a site assessment for future placement of an ANSF checkpoint when the team was engaged by the enemy. From his position Captain Fox noticed that his security elements were taking small arms and Rocket-propelled grenade attacks from two separate enemy positions. He moved the survey element to the top of a ridgeline to engage the enemy when a devastating improvised explosive device detonated near the team, leaving Captain Fox unconscious, killing a French Captain and critically wounding the ANSF commander. From his position on the ground, Sergeant Miller hear the large explosion atop the ridgeline but could only see a large plume of black smoke billowing up from where Captain Fox and the assessment team were located. At that moment he had broken transmission with Captain Fox and lost radio contact. Due to the mountainous terrain, it made radio communications more restricted. Not long afterwards only Captain Fox's words, "urgent…surgical" could be heard over the radio. When Sergeant Miller reached Captain Fox's location, he found the Captain still dazed from the blast but able to move on his own. Sergeant Miller organized the element to extract the French engineer's body and the wounded ANSF commander. He carried the KIA down the mountain to the emergency helicopter landing zone for evacuation, painstakingly making his way down the mountain, all-the-while taking sustained fire from the enemy. Soaked in the French engineer's blood, he stumbled and fell due to the weight on his back. As the men approached a dried up wadi at the base of the mountain, Sergeant Miller fell once more, in agonizing pain due to severely strained hamstrings. He and Captain Fox took cover in the wadi until evacuation could be effected for the team, the KIA, and the wounded. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

MILLER, PATRICK (POW)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Patrick Miller, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Mechanic with the 507th Maintenance Company, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, near An Nasiriya, Iraq, on 23 March 2003. On that date a huge American convoy headed from Kuwait to Baghdad. A dozen heavy trucks and other maintenance vehicles fell behind the rest and got lost. At sunrise, Iraqi troops ambushed the lost soldiers, firing from both sides of the highway. The Americans sped up to escape the attack, but one Humvee smashed into the back of a jack-knifed American tractor-trailer. Less than a mile behind that accident, Private Miller was driving the last truck in the convoy. During the attack, he floored the accelerator, trying to steer and duck bullets at the same time. During the ensuing battle he single- handedly stopped a mortar attack aimed at trapped soldiers.
Home Town: Wichita, Kansas
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart, Prisoner of War Medal

*MILLICAN, JONATHAN (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Jonathan Millican, Private, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, in combat action in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 20 January 2007, at Karbala, Iraq. Private Millican was one of four soldiers who was killed after militants abducted them from the governor's office in Karbala, Iraq, in a sophisticated sneak attack. The attackers posed as an American security team -- speaking English, wearing U.S. military combat fatigues and traveling in the type of sport utility vehicles U.S. government convoys use. Private Millican was off duty in a communications room exchanging e-mails with his wife when the attack started. The attackers fired several rounds into the room with an AK47 and one of them tossed a grenade. Private Millican covered the grenade with his own body to shield his comrades.
Home Town: Locust Fork, Alabama
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

MILTENBERGER, ROBERT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert Miltenberger, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, near Baghdad, Iraq, on 4 April 2004. Staff Sergeant Miltenberger distinguished himself during fierce urban combat on Route Delta, in Sadr City, Iraq, during Operation LANCER FURY, after his platoon encountered a deliberate ambush set by the militia near the slum's Sadr Bureau. During the ambush he organized a hasty defense while exposed to enemy fire and personally engaged enemy positions for more than five minutes of sustained contact. When his platoon made the call to abandon their Humvees and set up hasty fighting positions, Staff Sergeant Swope remained with the vehicles so he could maintain radio contact with his battalion headquarters and request reinforcements. He remained in the vehicle by himself for more than two hours, under enemy fire while the rest of his platoon took cover in nearby hasty-fighting positions. He was able to maintain radio contact with the battalion during this time, which allowed his platoon to be located by aerial assets, and their eventual extraction by a group of armored vehicles. After engaging the enemy in Sadr City, he directed his squad in precise and lethal fire against Muqtada militia attackers, performing critical medical care on wounded Soldiers in his squad.

MOJICA, CESAR E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Cesar E. Mojica, United States Army, for gallantry in action as the Intelligence and Operations Sergeant for Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 7422 (ODA-7422), Special Operations Task Force 74, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM - Afghanistan XX. Sergeant First Class Mojica, United States Army, heroically distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct and gallantry in the face of direct enemy fire as the ground force commander for and Advisor for a company of Commandos from 3rd Special Operations Kandak, Commandos clearing an enemy strong hold in the denied terrain of Mirza Kalay Village, Mya Neshin District, of Afghanistan. Sergeant First Class Mojica placed himself repeatedly and directly in the line of fire against superior enemy forces in order to allow friendly forces the freedom of movement to clear the objective and free multiple elements pinned down under withering enemy fire to maneuver to safety, direct close air support, and re-attack the enemy. Sergeant First Class Mojica's actions allowed his team and the commandos the time and space to gain and maintain fire superiority over the enemy. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect distinct credit upon himself, the combined joint special operations task force – Afghanistan, the Special Operations Task Force – South, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Sergeant First Class Cesar Mojica, United States Army, heroically distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct and gallantry in the face of direct enemy fire as the Intelligence and Operations Sergeant for Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 7422, Mirza Kalay, Mya Neshin District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM - Afghanistan XX. On 12 September 2013 from approximately 0521 to 1838, Sergeant First Class Mojica was the Ground Force Commander and advisor for a Company of Afghan Commandos, tasked with clearing a village used by insurgents to stage attacks on Afghan and Coalition Forces in severely denied terrain, known to be an insurgent stronghold. Immediately upon landing in the area, special intelligence indicated a large number of insurgents in the area establishing ambush positions and defenses in preparation for the clearing elements descent into the valley. Sergeant First Class Mojica maneuvered the Commandos and Advisors to a command and control support by fire position, which immediately identified approximately 30 insurgents preparing ambush and defensive positions to attack the element. Sergeant First Class Mojica quickly called for, and received approval, to engage the enemy with close air support killing at least 10 insurgents and thwarting the initial coordinated enemy attack, which facilitated the clearing forces descent into the valley. Upon reaching the valley floor the maneuver element came under heavy and effective enemy PKM and small arms fire. Sergeant First Class Mojica, again, called for close air support and directed his support by fire position to engage multiple enemy fighting positions, while accurate enemy suppressive fire impacted his fighting position. Sergeant First Class Mojica called for emergency re-supply after several hours of continual fighting, directing the pilots in placing timely, and accurate re-supply to both friendly locations, enabling Commandos and Advisors to maintain momentum during the ongoing fire fight. Sergeant First Class Mojica received special intelligence of an insurgent counter-attack coming from the south in the valley and directed a platoon of Commandos and Advisors to maneuver on the enemy, effectively denying enemy assault. The clearing element that maneuvered south became pinned down due to overwhelming enemy fire and Sergeant First Class Mojica exposed himself multiple times in the face of effective enemy fire to engage the enemy, as well as direct friendly forces and close air support. While commanding and controlling multiple maneuver elements and close air support simultaneously, Sergeant First Class Mojica's position continued to receive persistent and heavy volume of enemy PKM, small arms fire, and sniper fire. Upon completion of clearing over 1.5 kilometers of the valley floor, the clearing element began ascending the mountain. Sergeant First Class Mojica's position began receiving an oppressive amount of intense accurate suppressive PKM, small arms fire, sniper fire, and RPGs, from three enemy fighting positions, effectively pinning his position down. Despite the concentrated enemy fire, Sergeant First Class Mojica left cover to engage and kill three enemy fighters who were maneuvering to his location 400m from the southwest. He then maneuvered the clearance force into reinforcement positions, countering the enemy assault, directing danger close air support from multiple aircraft, and maneuvering all personnel safely to the extraction point. Sergeant First Class Mojica's actions throughout the 13 hour battle ensured the survivability of friendly forces and defeated the enemy's attacks multiple times. His unwavering leadership in the face of enemy fire was directly responsible for an estimated 103 enemy killed in action. Sergeant First Class Mojica's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service. His conduct reflects great credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Task Force – Afghanistan, Special Operations Task Force – South, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Humacao, Puerto Rico

MOLINO, CHRISTOPHER A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Christopher A. Molino, Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Ground Combat Commander with the 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, during combat actions in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, in Iraq in 2005. Captain Molino was conducting combat operations when his element came under direct small arms and hand grenade fire from a determined enemy. His personal courage, tactical expertise and professional competence contributed to saving the lives of wounded Rangers and the success of the task force.

MONSCHKE, JUSTIN S.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class Justin Shane Monschke, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy on 1 August 2007, under intense enemy fire during the execution of Operation CHARGER in the Balad area of Iraq, while serving as the Senior Weapons Sergeant, Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 3224 (ODA-3224), in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Sergeant First Class Monschke's heroic actions and leadership during combat operations in Iraq contributed to the overwhelming victory of his Detachment against anti-Iraqi forces. Sergeant First Class Monschke's heroism is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Krum, Texas

MOORE, JOHN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John Colin Moore, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 2d Battalion, 37th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Division, in action at Baghdad, Iraq, on 4 April 2004. Captain Moore's gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

*MOORE, WILLIAM CLINT (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to William Clint Moore, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for exceptionally valorous conduct as a reconnaissance Troop Section Leader, in Troop B, 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division on April 23, 2007 during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, near Baqubah, Iraq. Staff Sergeant Moore's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Task Force Headhunter, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD:
Staff Sergeant William C. Moore, United States Army, distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous conduct as a reconnaissance troop section leader, B Troop, 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division on April 23, 2007 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sergeant Moore's platoon had been engaged in combat operations for three consecutive days approximately four kilometers northeast of Baqubah, Iraq, near As Sadah, conducting patrol base operations and patrols through the villages in order to identify and kill or capture Al Qaeda in Iraq (AQIZ) forces operating in the area. On April 23, 2007, at approximately 1500 hours, Staff Sergeant Moore was preparing his section to conduct a patrol when a rooftop position opened fire on a dump truck filled with explosives attacking the patrol base through the defensive barriers. Staff Sergeant Moore was immediately struck by an explosion as the vehicle borne improvised explosive device detonated, causing him to be thrown from the building. Staff Sergeant Moore quickly regained his footing and ignored his own wounds, as well as the enemy fire now impacting around him, and took of charge of several Paratroopers at his location. Staff Sergeant Moore, without regard for his own safety, exposed himself to enemy fire that was now coming from three separate directions on the rooftops surrounding the patrol base, rapidly organized his ad-hoc element, moved them to a covered position, established security from that location and then physically directed their fires in order to suppress the enemy. As soon as Staff Sergeant Moore established his position he realized that several Paratroopers from his platoon were still in jeopardy, occupying the ground floor of the building that had been struck. Again, disregarding his own safety a second time, he left a covered position with continuous accurate enemy small arms and RPG fire striking all around him, still refusing medical treatment, and knowingly exposed himself to the enemy as he rushed from his position to reenter the building in order to rally his Paratroopers and move them to a safe location. As soon as Staff Sergeant Moore entered the room, the building was struck by a second vehicle borne improvised explosive device causing the whole building to collapse upon the Paratroopers that remained inside. As the rest of the Troop rushed forward to free the trapped Paratroopers, Staff Sergeant Moore, though mortally wounded, was able to alert the rescuers to his and another Paratroopers location by calling out and fighting to push the rubble off himself and his buried Paratroopers. Staff Sergeant Moore's heroic actions were directly responsible for preventing further casualties to his platoon, safeguarding his wounded Paratroopers and rallying his section until he was mortally wounded. His courage under fire is in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflects distinct credit upon himself, Task Force Headhunter, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Benson, North Carolina
Personal Awards: Silver Star (War on Terrorism), Purple Heart

MORALES, FRANCISCO
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against a well equipped enemy force while acting as the Platoon Leader/Convoy Commander for 3d Platoon, Alpha Company, 2d Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, in Afghanistan, 26 August 2006. Sergeant First Class Morales' gallant leadership, personal bravery and selfless actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 3d Brigade Combat Team, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales distinguished himself by gallantry in action against a well equipped enemy force on 26 August 2006, while acting as the Platoon Leader/Convoy Commander for 3d Platoon, Alpha Company, 2d Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales personally risked his life by exposing himself multiple times to RPG and small arms fire in the kill zone of a linear ambush to save the lives of wounded U.S. Soldiers and gain fire superiority and defeat the enemy force. His dynamic leadership and disregard for his personal safety allowed him directing an overwhelming response to a platoon sized enemy ambush as well as personally moving to aid fellow U.S. Soldiers pinned down and wounded in the kill zone. His expertise as a Pathfinder aided in the quick evacuation of all four American casualties. While assigned to Camp Tillman, Lawara, Afghanistan, Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales, Platoon Sergeant and acting Platoon Leader of a mounted patrol was en route to hilltop 2911 when, at approximately 0610Z, the patrol was ambushed by heavy and accurate machine gun and RPG fire. Upon initial contact, Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales quickly provided guidance to his gunner to engage at a distance and direction of the contact in relation to the patrol. During the relay of information, the lead vehicle of the combat patrol suffered critical hits by four RPG's, inflicting serious wounds to the vehicle commander and Gunner. Sergeant First Class Morales quickly assessed the situation and reacted ordering the element to extract the disabled vehicle and establish a base of fire outside the engagement area. Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales, with complete disregard for enemy fire, exited his vehicle to hook up the vehicle to tow the damaged vehicle out of the kill zone while still receiving heavy and accurate machinegun fire. Upon hooking the damaged vehicle up, the lead vehicle became stuck in the river bed. Sergeant First Class Morales immediately ordered his gunner and the gunner of the damaged vehicle to provide suppressive fire against enemy positions while, disregarding his own personal safety, he ran back into the exposed side of the kill zone to extract the vehicle commander, initially wounded during the beginning of the ambush. Once he placed the casualties in a covered location, Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales then identified all three gunners' weapons systems were out of ammunition. Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales, in order to cover the gunners as they reloaded, exposed himself to enemy fire again running to the lead vehicle and manned a M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, providing immediate suppression into the ambush line allowing the gunners an opportunity to reload their weapons and allow the medics to render first aid to the two casualties. Sergeant First Class Morales then again exposed himself to small arms fire and ran from the lead vehicle to the disabled vehicle 20 meters away to help suppress the area in front of the Mortar section vehicle since their weapons systems also malfunctioned. Once the gunners had reloaded or corrected the malfunctions Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales issued critical fire commands that quickly regained fire superiority. Once Fire superiority was established Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales issued orders to immediately establish security covering all directions and began treating the casualties and preparing them for evacuation. Sergeant First Class Morales assisted the medics in performing first aid to a gunner who had been wounded by small arms fire to the right bicep and the lead vehicle commander who received shrapnel from his thigh to his foot. Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales then led a two vehicle MEDEVAC element approximately 500 meters through the riverbed to a suitable landing zone location and Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales immediately establish security covering all directions and used his skills as Company Senior Pathfinder to successfully mark and guide the medivac helicopter to the LZ. His quick actions and experienced judgment in a limited amount of time enabled the casualties to be evacuated rapidly, thus saving their lives. Sergeant First Class Morales' actions were pivotal in gaining fire superiority over an enemy that had the element of surprise. His ability to quickly employ his limited resources while under direct fire was instrumental in preserving the lives of his fellow comrades in a situation that could have resulted in extensive U.S. casualties and loss of equipment. Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales training and experience were indispensable assets that contributed to the survival of the patrol. His actions allowed the patrol to defeat enemy actions north of Camp Tillman and limit their influence in Lawara and thus degrading their ability to move freely along the Afghanistan/Pakistan boarder. Sergeant First Class Morales' gallantry in action is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon him, Alpha Company, Task Force Catamount, Combined Task Force Spartan, Combined Joint Task Force 76, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Palm Desert, California

MORALES, LUIS G.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Luis G. Morales, United States Army, for exceptionally valorous conduct in the face of the enemy of the United States as Intelligence Sergeant, Operational Detachment Alpha 3336 (ODA-3336), 3d Special Forces Group (Airborne), Special Operations Task Force - 33, Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Afghanistan, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 6 April 2008. Sergeant Morales heroically distinguished himself as a member of the lead assault element combat advising a one hundred man company of Afghan Commandos in Shok Valley; the mission was to kill or capture a Joint Priority Effects List target of the Hezebela Islami Gulbadin Insurgent group. After inserting via CH-47 into the objective area at nearly ten thousand feet, Sergeant Morales led his partnered Afghan Commando force through a fast moving stream and began the climb up the ice covered mountain toward the objective. Approximately half way up mountain, the Insurgents engaged all elements simultaneously with a heavy volume of extremely accurate machine gun, sniper, small arms, and Rocket Propelled Grenade fire coming from all directions on the surrounding high ground. The lead assault element fought desperately to find cover as they engaged numerous Insurgent positions. Within minutes, they were completely pinned down by extremely effective Insurgent fire. Amid the initial chaos, Sergeant Morales took charge and immediately called for Close Air Support knowing that all fires would be danger close. As bombs dropped less than two hundred meters away, Sergeant Morales instinctively rallied his Commandos and led the charge to reinforce the besieged Command and Control (C2) element trapped against a 60 foot cliff. Despite well aimed machine gun and sniper fire from one hundred to two hundred insurgents occupying the surrounding high ground, Sergeant Morales courageously fought for over an hour through the continuous fire to rescue the pinned down C2 element. As he maneuvered his element into position and began placing a heavy volume of suppressive fire against the elevated Insurgent positions, one detachment member in his assault force was critically wounded along with several Afghan Commandos. With total disregard for his own personal safety, Sergeant Morales heroically ran back out into the line of fire to render aid using his body to shield his teammate until he, himself was wounded. Ignoring the severity of his wound, and losing a tremendous amount of blood, he quickly administered self aid and then returned to providing life saving aid to his more severely wounded teammate until he, himself, became critically wounded by a second gunshot. After being pulled back to cover, Sergeant Morales assisted in treating three other critically wounded casualties, reassuring both junior Soldiers and Commandos. At one point during the six and a half hour battle, his position was nearly overrun by Insurgent fighters, but Sergeant Morales held his ground killing multiple Insurgents. During evacuation down a 60 foot cliff, he again put forth a momentous effort by refusing assistance allowing other detachment members to move more seriously wounded casualties. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, Special Operations Task Force - 33, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Afghanistan, Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Fredericksburg, Virginia

*MOREHEAD, KEVIN N. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Master Sergeant Kevin Neil Morehead, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with the 3d Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM at Ramadi, Iraq, on 11 September 2003. Master Sergeant Morehead's willingness to lead in the face of danger, with total disregard for his own safety, inspired the men of his task force and saved countless lives. Master Sergeant Morehead's gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Little Rock, Arkansas

MORGES, KEITH A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Keith A. Morges, United States Army, for exceptionally valorous achievement on 26 October 2010 as a platoon sergeant for a joint task force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. During this period, Sergeant First Class Morges maneuvered on a determined enemy force through heavy enemy fire to reinforce the Western blocking position. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant First Class Morges exposed himself to machine gun and rocket propelled grenade fire in order to suppress an overwhelming enemy force. Sergeant First Class Morges was the last individual to leave the blocking position and continually provided suppressive fire on the enemy until the platoon had maneuvered to cover. Through his distinctive accomplishments, Sergeant First Class Morges reflected great credit upon himself, this command and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Sergeant First Class Keith A. Morges distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous achievement on October 26, 2010 while deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, while serving as a Ranger Platoon Sergeant. On October 26, 2010, the task force received intelligence indicating that a high value individual was located in a small village. Information throughout the day indicated that armed Taliban fighters were moving in and around the target compound with aircraft flying in the area were routinely engaged with small arms and rocket propelled grenades. The Ranger platoon began receiving effective fire from an enemy machine gun position to the East of the HLZ. The platoon inserted and moved to contain and isolate the target compound to the North and South. Enemy personnel were reported moving towards their location and the Platoon started taking harassing fire from multiple directions. Once the platoon entered and cleared the target compound, they began receiving effective machine gun and small arms fire from the West and Southwest. Sergeant First Class Morges immediately left the target compound and maneuvered to the West side of the target to reinforce the blocking position one. Under effective enemy machine gun and small arms fire, Sergeant First Class Morges bounded forward approximately 25 meters with little cover while simultaneously suppressing the enemy positions. Once online with Staff Sergeant M's position on the south side of the road, Sergeant First Class Morges moved out of a covered position multiple times in order to engage the enemy threats up the road to the Northwest and to targets for the other members of the blocking position. Sergeant First Class Morges identified two enemy personnel less than 75 meters up the road to the Northwest firing at the blocking position and immediately suppressed the enemy with his M-4. Moments later, Sergeant First Class Morges observed another enemy combatant with a machine gun jumped into the ditch running on the North side of the road approximately 60 meters away. Sergeant First Class Morges fired around 15 rounds at the machine gun position and immediately maneuvered Staff Sergeant V up to his position to engage the enemy position with his M-320. While receiving bursts of machine gun fire, Sergeant First Class Morges continued to suppress the position allowing Staff Sergeant V to move up and effectively eliminate the enemy machine gunner. Directly after this engagement, enemy combatants 50 meters away on the Southern side of the road began firing over the wall at the blocking position. Sergeant First Class Morges immediately began suppressing known and suspected enemy positions along the southern wall and thus mitigating the threat. After receiving continual enemy contact from the South and the West for the next 40 minutes, Sergeant First Class Morges relentlessly engaged the multiple enemy positions and coordinated for an ammo resupply for the blocking position. After a short lull in the action, the enemy fired several RPGs accurately on the blocking position and wounded two Rangers. Sergeant First Class Morges quickly orchestrated a plan to break contact under fire and move the casualties back to safety. While the blocking position broke down and moved back to safety, Sergeant First Class Morges continually suppressed the enemy positions. It was only when everyone else was safely behind cover along the Eastern wall of the target compound, did Sergeant First Class Morges finally break down and moved back to their position. Sergeant First Class Morges maneuvered the blocking position to the North and helped establish the EXFIL HLZ. Once set in pick-up zone posture, Sergeant First Class Morges continued to pull security to the Southwestern wood line less than 100 meters to the South. When the helicopters landed to pick up the platoon, they began receiving heavy enemy fire from the Southern wood line. In an effort to provide covering fire for his platoon loading the helicopters, Sergeant First Class Morges remained in the open while taking enemy fire in order to suppress the enemy positions. Throughout the mission, Sergeant First Class Morges' courage under fire and disregard for his own safety undoubtedly saved the lives of several members of the Platoon and were instrumental to the successful execution of the mission. Through his distinctive accomplishments, Sergeant First Class Morges' actions and leadership reflect great credit upon him, his unit, and the United States Army.

MORRIS, STEVEN A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Steven A. Morris, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with the 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq on 31 March 2003. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

MOTT, KEVIN W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Kevin W. Mott, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving as a platoon leader with the 2d Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against an armed and heavily fortified enemy from 28 March 2011 to 6 April 2011, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan. Captain Mott's unit was surrounded by enemy insurgents. He repeatedly put himself in the line of enemy fire so his unit could move and eventually helped to call in a guided bomb strike to end the enemy attack. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
San Rafael, California

MOYNIHAN, MICHAEL A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Michael A. Moynihan, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving with Company B, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team,25th Infantry Division, Task Force Bronco, Combined Joint Task Force, from 11 October 2011 to 13 October 2011 in defense of Observation Post SHAL in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Corporal Michael A. Moynihan, United States Army, distinguished himself in multiple valorous acts during combat operations in Kunar Province, while serving as a Team Leader in 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, The Wolfhounds, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, Task Force Bronco, Combined Joint Task Force-1 from 11 October 2011 to 13 October 2011 in defense of Observation Post (OP) Shal during Operation Rugged Sarak. Corporal Moynihan team was charged with guarding the northern flank of OP Shal, when he and his Team came under direct enemy fire. Corporal Moynihan, without regard for his life, led his Soldiers to identify 12 different enemy positions in the mountainous terrain on the opposite side of the valley and deliver two Tube-Launched Optically Tracked Wire Guided (TOW) missile strikes. Afterwards Corporal Moynihan took control of an abandoned but exposed machine gun position, suppressing enemy fire. He continued to perform barrel changes, linking ammunition and sustaining a deadly accurate rate of fire on the enemy target in spite of the enemy trying to zero in on his location and becoming more accurate by the moment. The next day Corporal Moynihan identified an armed enemy fighter maneuvering into a fortified fighting position across the valley; he took control of the M249L and neutralized the enemy fighter. He remained in a danger zone with total disregard for his own safety even as the dust settled from a mortar impact, to mark enemy positions. He guided two direct TOW missile strikes resulting in the killing of seven Taliban fighters including a Taliban commander. Subsequently providing support to his platoon through suppressive fire, fragmentary grenades, and detonation of claymore mines slowing the progression of enemy fighters. Later in the evening the enemy initiated another complicated attack with RPGs and AK-47s at close range attempting to overrun the northern flank of the OP. Corporal Moynihan exposed himself maneuvering through the danger zone, rallying his men and led a counterattack against the enemy assault. He engaged the enemy with M4 carbine, threw fragmentation grenades, detonated claymores and took control of an abandoned ANA M249 position saving valuable resources from being depleted. Under the heaviest and most coordinated attack against the OP on 13 October, Corporal Moynihan exposed himself to enemy fire yet again to acquire and pass grid coordinates to the platoon Forward Observer (FO). He remained exposed while adjusting rounds on the enemy firing positions hidden in the mountainous terrain. Corporal Moynihan's fighting position was hit from an 82 mm mortar less than ten meters away knocking several people down . A second 82 mm mortar directly hit his fighting position several minutes later, severely wounding three ANA Soldiers and five Soldiers, knocking Corporal Moynihan unconscious. After regaining consciousness he ordered a fellow Soldier to lay down suppressive fire and took control of an ANA M249 machine gun, leading the defense of the OP's northern flank until reinforcements could arrive. Corporal Moynihan was ordered to receive medical attention for a concussion, leading to his being Medically Evacuated for further medical treatment. Holding a vital position under extreme circumstances, he was instrumental in helping to destroy a determined enemy force repelling two near ambushes that threatened to breach vulnerable perimeter of his platoons' patrol base. Corporal Moynihan's courage under fire as a leader in Bravo Company saved the lives of American and Afghan Soldiers. He held a vital position under extreme circumstances and was instrumental in helping destroy a determined enemy force. Corporal Moynihan voluntarily risked his life on multiple occasions, repelling two near ambushes that threatened to breach the vulnerable perimeter of his platoons' patrol base. His valorous actions over a three day period directly lead to the success of his platoon's mission at OP Sarak. Corporal Moynihan's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect distinct credit upon him, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, The Wolfhounds, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, TF Bronco, CJTF-1 and the United States Army.
Home Town: Shelbyville, Tennessee

MULLIGAN, TERRY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Terry Mulligan, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM at Baghdad, Iraq, on 3 March 2003. On that date, Sergeant First Class Mulligan was serving as a scout, operating as the forward eyes and ears of the division as they moved to take Baghdad. While securing his area near the airport, Sergeant First Class Mulligan received word that about 100 Fedayeen soldiers from Saddam Hussein's army were advancing on another section. He and four of his Soldiers moved to that area to help fend off the enemy advancement. With Sergeant First Class Paul Smith, Sergeant First Class Mulligan bravely defended the area with hand grenades and anti-tank weapons. His efforts led to the defense of the American position, as well as the protection of U.S. Soldiers in the area.
Born: at Beaufort, South Carolina
Home Town: Beaufort, South Carolina

MULLINS, MICHAEL D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Michael D. Mullins, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company A, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, in action on 14 September 2008, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan. During battle damage assessment, Staff Sergeant Mullins' platoon was ambushed with small arms fire and RPG fire. When six of his fellow Soldiers were wounded, he ran over 150 meters through the kill zone to attract enemy fire away from his injured teammates. He then engaged the closing enemy forces attempting to overrun his platoon's position, halting the advance and then causing the enemy to withdraw from the ambush. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

*MUNOZ, PEDRO A. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class Pedro A. Munoz, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Operations and Intelligence Sergeant assigned to 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, while conducting an offensive operation in Shindand, Afghanistan, on 2 January 2005. On that date, while in pursuit of a mid-level Taliban commander, Sergeant Munoz entered a room filled with women and children, when an enemy fighter opened fire on him. In spite of his wounds, Sergeant Munoz returned fire and killed his assailant without harming anyone else. His dedication and his courage are evident through his actions: protecting innocent life, staying in the fight without thought for himself while supporting his teammates, allowing them to successfully accomplish their mission. Sergeant First Class Munoz's gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

MYER, MATTHEW
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Matthew R. R. Myer, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Company Commander of Company C, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team, during an enemy attack on Vehicle Patrol Base Wanat, in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Captain Myer's perseverance under fire and leadership in the face of mortal danger saved the day when almost all had been lost. Captain Myer's valorous actions, enabling the defeat of a numerically superior enemy force, are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: On 13 July 2008 at approximately 0430L, an estimated 200 enemy fighters conducted a coordinated assault on Vehicle Patrol Base (VPB) Wanat, a newly established, platoon-sized VPB in Wanat, Afghanistan using PKMs, RPGs, mortars, and effective small arms fire from numerous concealed fighting positions. For over four hours, a vicious battle for the base and the lives of its Soldiers raged. By the time the outnumbered Coalition Force repelled the enemy attack, nine American Soldiers - to include the platoon leader - had given their lives and another sixteen had been seriously wounded. For those four hours, the Chosen Company Commander, Captain Matt Myer, fearlessly led the defense of the VPB. Under attack on all sides by a numerically superior force, Captain Myer's skillful employment of artillery, mortars, CCA, CAS, and direct fire and his own example of unwavering personal courage ensured that each time the enemy force attempted to overrun the VPB, they were defeated and forced to retreat. Although his Company incurred heavy losses in the attack, Captain Myer's fearless leadership and steady hand ensured that when the smoked cleared and fighting ended, the Chosen Few owned the ground that the enemy sought to take, and the nearly fifty enemy fighters that were destroyed in the battle were evidence of the ferocity of the defense of VPB Wanat that Captain Myer led. Just before dawn, Captain Myer directed that all Soldiers on the VPB conduct stand-to as he considered the likelihood of an attack to be higher as visibility began to improve. As soon as his element had assumed 100% security, approximately 200 enemy fighters began the assault of the VPB from all sides, immediately targeting the TOW missile vehicle and the 120mm mortar pit. Captain Myer immediately started receiving reports, passing updates to the Task Force Commander, and requesting artillery, mortar, and CAS. Behind the minimal cover afforded him by his vehicle and a makeshift Command Post (CP), Captain Myer continued providing the critical information that brought effective fires into the fight. When he sensed that the decisive terrain, the Observation Post (OP), was in danger of being overrun and that heavy casualties had left the position vulnerable, Captain Myer boldly directed the reinforcement of the OP under fire—a difficult command decision that likely saved the entire VPB and its Soldiers from being destroyed. Under his direction, a fire team of Soldiers assaulted uphill, under enemy fire, to reinforce the position and better assess and treat the wounded and killed Soldiers. Not satisfied that he sufficiently understood the situation at the OP to best direct the fight, Captain Myer then began an audacious move up to the OP himself. Captain Myer risked likely injury and possible death when he moved under enemy fire and observation over terrain where two if his Soldiers had been killed just minutes before, and climbed to the OP in order to better understand the terrain in which he was directing assets against the enemy well within "danger close" range. Once he arrived at the OP, still under effective enemy fire, Captain Myer quickly organized the remaining able-bodied Paratroopers and ensured they understood how to best direct CCA, CAS, and artillery against the enemy who continued to maneuver on the position within hand grenade range. When the Paratroopers at the OP pointed out an enemy grenade that had been thrown into the OP but that had not exploded, Captain Myer fearlessly picked up the grenade himself and then threw it back out of the OP and away from his men. Captain Myer then moved back down to his CP, again maneuvering over bare rock, in plain sight of the still attacking enemy. Once he arrived back at his CP, Captain Myer continued the precise employment of all available assets to continue destroying enemy advances as they sought to overrun the VPB. When MEDEVAC aircraft arrived to lift the first group of wounded Paratroopers from the VPB, Captain Myer's unwavering proficiency allowed him to bring the aircraft into an HLZ that was still taking occasional enemy fire while still employing CAS and CCA, ensuring that once the enemy assault was broken, the smaller American force maintained the initiative. This tenacity and willingness to continue to pursue the enemy enabled the defenders of the VPB to become the attackers as Chosen Company pursued the enemy force with fires and continued to destroy the enemy wherever they attempted to consolidate and reorganize. Captain Myer's steadfast leadership and calm direction of the battle singularly enabled the Battalion to bring the full force of all available enablers to bear on the determined enemy formation, allowing the outnumbered group of American Paratroopers to decisively defeat a much larger enemy force fighting from advantageous terrain. At the decisive moment of the battle, Captain Myer unflinchingly ordered the audacious reinforcement of the OP, and then exposed himself to the same risk that his Soldiers faced in order to continue effectively leading the successful defense of his position. Although his entire element demonstrated uncommon valor over the course of the entire engagement, Captain Myer's gallant direction of the defense of his position and men was decisive to the defeat of the numerically superior attacking force, and the Chosen Few held their ground due in large part to the incredible leadership of their Commander, Captain Myer—Chosen 6.

MYERS, JASON W.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Warrant Officer Jason W. Myers, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against the enemy on 10 November 2011, while serving as Assistant Detachment Commander, Operational Detachment Alpha-3321, Special Operations Task Force-East, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. When the Chamkani District Center came under direct attack by insurgents, Chief Warrant Officer Two Myers organized a five-man assault team. He and his team, while under continuous fire, bounded into the District Center building, and immediately upon entering the building, began to move from room to room, engaging and eliminating the enemy. While in the building, Chief Warrant Officer Two Myers was wounded by shrapnel from a grenade blast. Throughout the night, Chief Warrant Officer Two Myers entered the building of the District Center on three separate occasions to engage with insurgents and rescue hostages. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force Afghanistan, the Combined Forces Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan, The United States Forces-Afghanistan, and the United States Army.
Home Town: West Perry, Pennsylvania

NASH, MARK A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Warrant Officer Three Mark A. Nash, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq in 2003. Chief Warrant Officer Nash's gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

NETHERY, BRIAN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Brian Nethery, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the Scout Platoon, 1st Battalion, 77th Armor Regiment, in action against enemy forces on the night of 30 June and 1 July 2007, during the Battle of Donkey Island in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Staff Sergeant Nethery was a section sergeant with a quick reaction force (QRF) that was dispatched to support a platoon that was in direct fire contact with 50 to 75 armed insurgents. Attempting a maneuver to pull watch over the on-scene commander's fight, Staff sergeant Nethery's vehicle came under intense direct fire, which wounded his gunner. He immediately administered life saving first aid to his wounded gunner and pulled his gunner down into an open seat, before training his sights on and eliminating several insurgent fighters. He returned to a nearby canal with the sole intention of rescuing a wounded comrade who could not extract himself from the battle. Despite closing fire from the enemy, Staff Sergeant Nethery low-crawled from his truck 10 meters to the Soldier's position and dragged him back to his vehicle. Although outnumbered and under heavy fire, he never hesitated in rescuing his fallen comrade.
Home Town: Ann Arbor, Michigan

NEWELL, PETER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Peter Newell, Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while Commanding the 2d Battalion, 2d Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry division, during combat action against enemy forces in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, in November 2004, at Fallujah, Iraq. Lieutenant Colonel Newell deployed a 550-soldier mechanized task force on 72 hours' notice to Fallujah in November 2004, leading a continuous 12-day attack in the heavily fortified Askari district. His forces overwhelmed resistance in the first 14 hours, ultimately killing 330 enemy fighters, capturing 48 others, destroying 38 weapons caches, two roadside- bomb factories and one car-bomb factory while becoming the first battalion in the division to achieve its objective. On 12 November Lieutenant Colonel Newell was caught in an ambush following an 11-hour night attack. Narrowly escaping enemy fire, he left his tracked vehicle and personally assisted in the evacuation of a mortally wounded officer.

NEWLIN, MARK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Mark Newlin, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, at Hit, Iraq, on 24 September 2006. Sergeant First Class Newlin's exceptionally valorous serviced during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM contributed to the overwhelming success of the Command's mission. His bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, the Ready First Combat Team, and the United States Army.

NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD:
Sergeant First Class Mark A. Newlin distinguished himself by his gallantry in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the country of Iraq in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. On 27 September 2006, Company A, 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment was attacked by mortar fire and small arms fire at Combat Outpost THREE (COP 3) in Hit, Iraq, in Al Anbar Province. An element from A-1-36INF responded to the attack pursuing the enemy into the city. While in a "Troops in Contact" (TIC) condition, air on station spotted two insurgents preparing for a mortar attack at the intersection of Plaintain and Eucalyptus streets. The insurgents conducted a successful mortar attack on a Bradley Fighting Vehicle from A/1-36, resulting in one wounded Soldier. Aircraft followed the mortarmen's vehicle to a house in the local area. The patrol from A/1-36 was then dispatched to the suspected mortarmen's vehicle to a house to detain the individuals. Once they arrived on site, the patrol came under sporadic small arms fire, but was able to gain entry into the house and detain the suspected individuals. During this action Sergeant First Class Newlin was attending a required briefing with his Company Commander, Captain Eric Stainbrook and Company First Sergeant, First Sergeant Sapp. The Company Commander and First Sergeant departed the briefing en rout to the objective area to assume command of the situation on the ground. A section of Bradley Fighting Vehicles from A/1-36 under the leadership of First Lieutenant Buchanan and Sergeant First Class Newlin was also dispatched to provide additional combat power. Upon arrival at the scene, First Lieutenant Buchanan dismounted the Bradley Fighting Vehicle and accompanied a dismounted squad to clear some houses and provide additional security to the element. Sergeant First Class Newlin took command of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle mounted element. Once on the scene, the company leadership directed the patrol to complete the detention of the suspected individuals, resulting in three detainees. The patrol placed the detainees in the BFVs and prepared to egress from the location. Captain Stainbrook, First Sergeant Sapp, and Second Lieutenant Jackson entered Captain Stainbrook's HMMWV and proceeded to return to their Company Firm Base. While maneuvering in the streets, their HMMWV became mired in much. Captain Stainbrook directed Sergeant First Class Newlin to move his Bradley Fighting Vehicle to his location to assist with recovery operations. Additionally, one of the Bradley Fighting Vehicles from the other patrol was also dispatched to assist with security. Captain Stainbrook, First Sergeant Sapp, and Second Lieutenant Jackson dismounted the HMMWV and assumed security positions while the driver, Private First Class Walker, and Sergeant First Class Newlin proceeded to hook up a tow cable to pull the HMMWV free. As the HMMWV was freed from the mud, Private First Class Walker and Sergeant First Class Newlin moved to unhook the HMMWV. At that time, the entire element came under heavy machine gun fire from two enemy machine guns located in a building approximately 150 meters to their southeast. Captain Stainbrook, First Sergeant Sapp, Second Lieutenant Jackson, Sergeant First Class Newlin, and Private First Class Walker immediately returned fire. First Sergeant Sapp and Captain Stainbrook were hit and severely wounded with debilitating wounds. Captain Stainbrook was hit in the lower right leg and the upper right leg. A Soldier moved to administer first aid to First Sergeant Sapp. Sergeant First Class Newlin identified the source of fire and moved into his Bradley to direct his gunner to return fire. He then exited the Bradley and moved under heavy machine gun fire for 50 meters to Captain Stainbrook. Sergeant First Class Newlin immediately began providing first aid and then with the help of Specialist Walker, carried Captain Stainbrook into the back of his BFV. He directed his BFV to move to the Battalion Aid Station while Specialist Walker administered a tourniquet to Captain Stainbrook, slowing the blood and saving his life. Once in the aid station, Sergeant First Class Newlin helped move Captain Stainbrook from his BFV into the aid station. Once he was assured that Captain Stainbrook was safe, he then remounted his BFV and moved back to the fight. Upon arrival at the objective, Sergeant First Class Newlin assumed a security position with his BFV and began to direct the fight on the ground. In the absence of his Company Commander, Sergeant First Class Newlin took control of the company net, identifying enemy forces in the area and directing mounted and dismounted elements from different units to points of contact. Sergeant First Class Newlin's BFV came under multiple mortar and small arms fire and was hit with an RPG. Despite the danger, he continued to direct the fight and deliver devastating fire on the enemy throughout the next 8 hours. Upon defeating the enemy, Sergeant First Class Newlin linked up with his dismounted squad and only after ensuring that all friendly elements were no longer in contact, he proceeded to return to his Company Firm Base. The enemy suffered tremendously from this action, resulting in 59 detainees (including 2 identified HVTs) and an unknown number of killed in action. Sergeant First Class Newlin's courage under heavy enemy fire was directly responsible for saving the life of Captain Stainbrook. He continued to demonstrate his courage by returning to the fight and directing the elements of the company throughout the entire 8-hour battle. Sergeant First Class Newlin's courageous actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Army and bring great credit upon himself and his unit.
Home Town: Hephzibah, Georgia

NEWSOM, ALEX L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Alex L. Newsom, United States Army, for extraordinary gallantry while serving as the 3d Platoon Leader in Troop B, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry (Airborne), 173d Airborne Brigade, during combat operations on 27 July 2007, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM VII. First Lieutenant Newsom's calm and focused actions saved the lives of other Soldiers in his Platoon. His performance turned the tide of battle and significantly aided elements against a numerically superior enemy force. First Lieutenant Newsom's heroic actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, B Troop, Task Force Saber, Command Task Force Bayonet, Combined Joint Task Force-82, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: For extraordinary heroism under fire during military operations against a hostile force in Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 27 July 2007. First Lieutenant Newsom distinguished himself as the Platoon Leader for 3d Platoon, B Troop. First Lieutenant Newsom expertly prepared his platoon as the QRF to support B Troop during their mission to Saret Koleh. When an observation post and the troop main body came under fire, First Lieutenant Newsom led his platoon forward to evacuate casualties and provide additional firepower to break up the enemy attack. Upon entering the engagement area, the convoy took fire from the north at grid YE 235 225. First Lieutenant Newsom directed suppressive fire from the patrol's heavy weapons to neutralize the enemy. With the enemy positions silenced, the patrol pushed forward and recovered the casualties to the MEDEVAC HLZ. Approximately one hour later, an explosion rocked the Troop Command Post and a heavy volume of effective fire opened up on the Troop main body. Without waiting for orders, First Lieutenant Newsom led his patrol forward into the fight. Attacking under heavy enemy fire, First Lieutenant Newsom directed the suppression from his heavy weapons. As the patrol fought forward to the main body location, First Lieutenant Newsom expertly positioned his trucks between the main body and the enemy. Despite the continued volume of heavy fire directed at them, First Lieutenant Newsom moved forward with Staff Sergeant Faulkenberry and Staff Sergeant Barnes to recover the remains of his fallen commander. After Bulldawg 6 was loaded, First Lieutenant Newsom led Faulkenberry and Barnes under enemy fire to the area in which Bulldawg 6 was hit and started sensitive item recovery. After securing the majority of the gear, Staff Sergeant Faulkenberry was shot in the leg by an armored piercing round and suffered a shattered femur. Although still under heavy and accurate fire, First Lieutenant Newsom and Staff Sergeant Barnes applied first aid. Staff Sergeant Barnes applied the bandages and tourniquet while First Lieutenant Newsom administered an IV. They saved his life. With enemy fire hitting all around, they moved Staff Sergeant Faulkenberry to the truck for evacuation. When First Lieutenant Newsom realized Bulldawg 6 was killed, he coordinated with the other Platoon Leaders and took charge of his element, re-established security and accountability, and prepared all the forces on the ground for exfiltration. While the Paratroopers continued to fight fiercely against the numerically superior enemy, 6 ANA Soldiers were suffering from shock and refused to fight. First Lieutenant Newsom's leadership motivated the ANA Soldiers. They continued to fight side-by-side with the Americans to defeat the enemy. First Lieutenant Newsom was calm and focused during the entire operation, controlled his Platoon and other elements in a desperate and dangerous situation, and undoubtedly assisted in saving Staff Sergeant Faulkenberry's life and the lives of others under intense enemy fire. He used his heavy weapons to suppress the enemy and his vehicles to cover the movement of the dismounted second platoon and ANA during exfiltration. First Lieutenant Newsom's combat leadership and extraordinary heroism under fire exemplify the warrior ethos. His performance turned the tide of the battle, saved many lives, and inflicted significant punishment on a numerically superior enemy force while assigned to B Troop, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry (Airborne), Task Force SABER, Combined Task Force BAYONET, and CJTF-82 in Afghanistan.

NEWTON, CASEY H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Casey H. Newton, First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 22d Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 19 March 2004, in Afghanistan. On that date, while participating in Operation MOUNTAIN STORM in the town of Miam Do, Afghanistan. First Lieutenant Newton's unit was tasked to breech a compound held by enemy fighters. During that mission his unit became temporarily isolated in a position against the exterior wall of the compound. While under constant rifle and machine gun fire, Lieutenant Newton used an improvised ladder to scale the compound's 15-foot wall to the roof ahead of his troops. Once there, he directed fire against the opposition forces and assisted in the evacuation of a fellow Soldier. First Lieutenant Newton's gallant actions and complete fearlessness in the face of the enemy reflect the highest credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

*NIXON, TRAVIS W. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Travis Wayne Nixon, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 29 October 2005 in the defense of Hill 2911 in the vicinity of Camp TILLMAN, Afghanistan. Staff Sergeant Nixon distinguished himself as a Weapons Squad Leader in Company B, 2d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, while engaging against a numerically superior enemy. Reacting to an attack against his observation post, Staff Sergeant Nixon selflessly revealed himself to enemy fire, continuously rallying his men through three determined Anti-Coalition Militia attacks against his position. His selfless service and courage under fire enabled his squad to retain their position and drive off the attacking forces. Staff Sergeant Nixon's intrepid and gallant actions under fire are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Task Force DEVIL, CJTF-76 and the United States Army.
Home Town: Parsons, Washington

NORTON, MICHAEL E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Michael E. Norton, United States Army, for gallantry action while serving with the 3d Battalion, 7th Ranger Regiment, in action from 4 to 5 August 2009 during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States as a Ranger Rifle Squad Leader for Joint Task Force in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Sergeant Norton led an assault on a heavily armed fighter camp in the mountains of Afghanistan. Ambushed at close range, Sergeant Norton ordered his squad to break contact. At great risk to his own life, he then braved multiple rocket-propelled grenades and withering machine gun fire to return to recover two of his Rangers who lay unconscious in the beaten zone of enemy fire, saving their lives. He then rallied his squad and continued the attack, eliminating two more enemy combatants in the course of the mission. His actions saved the lives of his squad and resulted in the destruction of an enemy headquarters camp. Sergeant Norton's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this command, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Sergeant Michael E. Norton distinguished himself through exceptionally valorous achievement from 4 to 5 August 2009 while deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom while serving as a Ranger Rifle Squad Leader. On 4 and 5 August, Sergeant Norton led his squad on an objective to raid a known enemy combatant's headquarters camp in the mountains of northwestern Khowst Province. Sergeant Norton was on his fourth mission as a squad leader, assuming these duties when his squad leader redeployed earlier in the deployment. His squad led the main element up a narrow valley system to the main camp area. While moving to the objective, Sergeant Norton and one of his team leaders were alerted to possible enemy personnel ahead of them along their route and moved forward to assess the situation, while the rest of the platoon halted. While attempting to identify the possible enemy in the valley, a seven to nine man enemy element initiated a complex near ambush on Sergeant Norton's squad from the high ground. The enemy initiated with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire from an enemy sentry position only 25 meters to their front. Behind the first enemy rocket-propelled grenade team, a medium machine gun on elevated ground to the northwest engaged them with highly effective fire. Another pair of enemy combatants were on the slope of the valley to the west, engaged the Ranger squad with an AK-47 and rocket-propelled grenades along the long axis of their formation while another group of fighters on elevated terrain to the east raked them with small arms fire from what was effectively the rear of their formation. These multiple enemy positions had effectively enveloped Sergeant Norton's squad from multiple directions at a distance of 25 meters to no more than 50 meters, leaving Sergeant Norton and his element pinned to the floor of the valley kill zone by the intense and accurate small arms fire. The valley itself left no room for maneuver, as it was only 5 meters wide with significant high ground to each side. Sergeant Norton, his squad and the gun team element behind them immediately returned fire, but they were unable to gain fire superiority over the well-established enemy and could not receive effective support from their over watch element or the rest of the platoon due to the restrictive terrain. After the second rocket-propelled grenades knocked two of his Rangers temporarily unconscious and blasted the rest of his squad with shrapnel and debris and realizing his element could not gain fire superiority, Sergeant Norton shouted for his squad to break contact. Sergeant Norton bounded back 15 meters with one of his Rangers, effectively escaping the kill zone, before he realized that two Rangers had not gotten up and were still exposed to the heavy volume of fire from the high ground to the east and west. With complete disregard for his own safety and at great risk to his own life, Sergeant Norton gallantly turned around and with marked distinction, purposefully charged back into the interlocking fire of the enemy ambush kill zone in order to recover his downed Rangers. Without hesitation, he dove down in the midst of enemy fire with his fallen comrades, uncertain of their status. While the rest of the lead element attempted to suppress the enemy, he shouted and shook the downed Rangers until they came to their senses, all the while enemy fires were accurately striking within inches of his position. After reviving his two Rangers, Sergeant Norton led them back to cover through the hail of direct fire and rocket-propelled grenade strikes, saving their lives and bringing his entire squad out of the enemy onslaught intact. While his platoon fought off the enemy ambush with direct fire, mortars, and close air support, Sergeant Norton quickly assessed his casualties and reorganized his squad to return to the fight. Sergeant Norton then continued leading his squad in the follow-on assaults through two more direct fire contacts, killing two enemy fighters. The overall assault force killed 20 enemy fighters, destroyed two enemy anti-aircraft guns and several other weapons, explosives, and military supplies on the objective, thus disrupting a major enemy headquarters and encampment before they could interfere with the approaching Afghan national elections. Sergeant Norton personally saved the lives of two of his Rangers and ensured the success of the mission, leading his squad and the assault force from the front to completion of the mission. Sergeant Norton's distinctive heroism and personal leadership under fire at the risk of his life were well above the call of duty. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the Department of Defense.

*NUNEZ, DAVID (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class David Nunez, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as the Senior Engineer Sergeant for Operational Detachment Alpha 7326 (ODA-7326), Company B, 3d Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), in combat action against enemy forces in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Farah Province, Afghanistan, on 29 May 2008. Sergeant First Class Nunez's heroic actions during combat operations in Afghanistan were critical to his element's survival in combat against insurgent enemy forces. Sergeant First Class Nunez's bravery is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his command, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: Sergeant First Class David Nunez, United States Army, heroically distinguished himself through exceptionally valorous conduct in the face of the enemy of the United States as a Senior Engineer Sergeant, Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Afghanistan, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM on 29 May 2008. During this period Sergeant First Class Nunez was a part of a combined Afghan National Army (ANA) and U.S. Special Forces patrol in the high plain desert in the vicinity of Shewan Village, Farah Province in Western Afghanistan. As the convoy traveled through the village it immediately became engaged by an enemy force estimated at 40-60 insurgents firing from both the north and south sides of the road. Sergeant First Class Nunez's vehicle was located in the center of the convoy and as his vehicle moved through the enemy's kill zone it began receiving heavy small arms, medium machine gun and Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) fire. In total disregard for his own safety, he immediately began returning fire and identifying enemy positions for the main turret gunner to engage. As his vehicle continued through the ambush line it was struck by RPGs, disabling it in the kill zone, where enemy fire was the heaviest. Sergeant First Class Nunez continued to suppress and identify enemy positions until he was severely wounded as a result of shrapnel from an RPG. Almost simultaneously his vehicle caught fire and secondary explosions were occurring at a rapid rate. Sergeant First Class Nunez, believing that other Soldiers were still in the vehicle and without regard for his own life began to discard ammunition and explosives from the rear of the vehicle in order to ensure others were not injured. During this entire period of time, Sergeant First Class Nunez was engulfed in flames. Ignoring his wounds and the intense concentration of enemy fire, he continued to assist the convoy pinned in the kill zone until he eventually succumbed to his injuries. Sergeant First Class Nunez displayed outstanding leadership, extreme tactical competence, composure under fire and bravery while giving his life to ensure the safe return of 25 U.S. Soldiers and 80 ANA Soldiers. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflect distinct credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

NUNEZ, OCTAVIO
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Octavio Nunez, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as an Infantry Squad Leader with 3d Platoon, Charlie Company, the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, in combat action against enemy forces in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 14 May 2007, in Iraq. Staff Sergeant Nunez's courage in the face of the enemy and risk of his own life to save the lives of his wounded comrades directly led to the expedient recovery of two critically injured soldiers. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Task Force Blue Spader, the Dagger Brigade Combat Team, the First Infantry Division, and the United States Army. NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD: On the afternoon of 14 May 2007, Staff Sergeant Octavio Nunez displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty when it unhesitatingly, and with complete disregard for his own life, saved two Soldiers from a burning vehicle while under withering enemy fire in Adhamiyah (NE Baghdad), Iraq. Staff Sergeant Nunez, an Infantry squad leader, was conducting a combat patrol with 3d Platoon, Company C, Task Force 1-26 when his platoon was attacked by a deep buried Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that lifted the vehicle 3 to 4 feet into the air and immediately engulfed the occupants in flames. Staff Sergeant Nunez, while under intense enemy fire, rushed to the aid of the four Soldiers that had exited the vehicle covered in flames and screaming for help As Staff Sergeant Nunez ran toward the burning vehicle, he immediately encountered Sergeant Terry Fleming who was still on fire and suffered from severe burns to 70% of his body. Staff Sergeant Nunez tackled Sergeant Fleming to Specialist Alexander could put the flames out with his vehicle's fire extinguisher. Despite intense fire from enemy forces, Staff Sergeant Nunez was able to drag Sergeant Fleming to the cover of an adjacent vehicle. As enemy forces increased their rate of fire and began to flank the platoon's position from adjacent alleyways, Staff Sergeant Nunez heroically risked his life a second time to rush to the aid of fellow Soldiers attempting to evacuate Private First Class Avila, suffering from two severely fractured legs and 60% burns to his body, from the close proximity of the burning vehicle. With bullets impacting all around him, from both enemy fire and ammunition and explosives cooking off within the burning vehicle, Staff Sergeant Nunez exposed himself again to enemy fire to load the 230-pound Soldier into the truck since the spine board would not fit. Once Private First Class Avila was secured inside the evacuation vehicle, Staff Sergeant Nunez courageously returned for a third time to the burning wreckage to search for casualties. However the flames became too intense and First Lieutenant Martinez pulled Staff Sergeant Nunez back from the burning vehicle and ordered him to send a SITREP to Company Headquarters located at COP Apache from his vehicle. Staff Sergeant Nunez exposed himself again to enemy fire in order to send the report from First Lieutenant Martinez's vehicle. After sending the report which allowed the company's quick reaction force to accurately determine the platoon's location and enemy situation, Staff Sergeant Nunez returned to check on Sergeant Fleming to prevent him from going into shock. Staff Sergeant Nunez acted quickly and decisively, while risking his life three separate times to rescue his fallen comrades in the face of a determined enemy following a catastrophic IED attack against his combat patrol. Staff Sergeant Nunez's gallant actions, courageous leadership, and willful risk of his own life saved the lives of two severely wounded Soldiers. For his incredible acts of gallantry, Staff Sergeant Octavio Nunez is recommended for the Silver Star.
Home Town: Chino, California