The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gunnery Sergeant Brian C. Jacklin, United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. On the morning of 14 June 2012 Gunnery Sergeant Jacklin was second in command of a team conducting village stability operations in the volatile Upper Gereshk Valley of Helmand Province. The enemy suddenly poured heavy fire into the team’s position, and his team leader and another Marine each suffered life threatening gunshot wounds. Without hesitation, Gunnery Sergeant Jacklin seized control of the situation and orchestrated a counterattack. Finding the primary communications link inoperable, he personally established an alternate means with a nearby supporting unit and began prosecuting direct, indirect, and aviation fires on the enemy, while simultaneously coordinating evacuation of the casualties. He courageously led his team out of their compound and through open terrain in order to secure a landing zone, but enemy ground fire initially forced the casevac aircraft to wave off. Gunnery Sergeant Jacklin voluntarily remained behind, and throughout a raging battle all the next day, he provided vital intelligence, tactical assistance, and deadly accurate personal fires. Throughout 48 hours, he inspired all around him as he led a vicious fight to defeat a determined enemy force. By his decisive actions, bold initiative, and complete dedication to duty, Gunnery Sergeant Jacklin reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.