(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 John Michael Penich, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with Company B, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM near Karangol Village, Afghanistan, on 16 October 2008. Sergeant Penich’s decisive action saved the lives of his fellow Soldiers and was directly responsible for repelling an enemy attack that was trying to overrun his position. His calm leadership enabled all involved to perform outside of their regular capacity. 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.