The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Timothy C. Tardif, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Second Squad Leader, First Platoon, Company G, Second Battalion, Fifth Marine Regiment, FIRST Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 12 April 2003. During the Battle of At Tarmiyah, Corporal Tardif and his squad reinforced First Platoon, which was pinned down in a violent enemy crossfire ambush. Immediately assessing the situation, Corporal Tardif directed Marines to return fire into enemy positions in a town. He identified the location of the enemy and determined the precise point to assault the enemy. Corporal Tardif charged across a road under intense small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire inspiring his Marines to follow his example. Engaged in an intense close-quarters battle, he received significant shrapnel wounds from an enemy grenade. Refusing to be evacuated and disregarding his wounds, Corporal Tardif gallantly led his squad in an assault on an enemy-held compound. After securing the compound, Corporal Tardif received an order to egress and he led his reinforced squad in a fighting withdrawal. After moving 150 meters, Corporal Tardif collapsed from his wounds, unable to continue fighting. By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Corporal Tardif reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.