The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Staff Sergeant Dwight E. Cross, United States Army, for exceptionally valorous achievement as a Squad Leader in the 571st Military Police Company during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. On 9 December 2007, Staff Sergeant Cross’ squad responded to a report of Iraqi Police pinned down by an enemy force. He moved his vehicles toward the Iraqi Police location and began to receive fire. After directing his crew served weapons he dismounted his vehicle and engaged the enemy with grenades. Without regard for his safety, he exposed himself to enemy fire and pulled a wounded soldier to safety. As the mission continued his squad came under enemy fire from a cement factory. Placing his vehicle in a position to gain a better vantage point and engage with crew served weapons, he moved under enemy fire to an approaching vehicle to secure two anti-tank missiles. He fired both missiles to effectively defeat the enemy attack. Staff Sergeant Cross’ valorous actions reflect great credit upon him, the 4th Stryker Combat Brigade, Multi National Division-North, and the United States Army.