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 (Armor) Andrew Thomas Deponai, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Alpha Company, Task Force 1st Battalion, 66th Armored Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 30 November 2003, at Samarra, Iraq. Captain Deponai’s heroic actions resulted in the rescue of 12 soldiers, the immediate life-saving medical care of six others, and inflicting devastating fire power and shock effect upon enemy forces (over 150 enemy killed and dozens captured). While always leading from the front, Captain Deponai displayed great personal courage and was an inspiration to the soldiers in his command and his actions reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division (Mechanized), and the United States Army.