(Citation Needed) – 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 Chad E. Lawson, United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with Operational Detachment Alpha 3116 (ODA-3116), 1st Battalion, 3d Special Forces Group (Airborne), in action in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan on 4 August 2010. With total disregard for his safety, Sergeant Lawson fearlessly exposed himself to rocket propelled grenades and heavy machinegun fire to evacuate a seriously injured teammate. Remaining calm under fire, his decisions allowed his team to defeat the insurgents and ensured the safe evacuation of his teammate. 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.