The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Gunner’s Mate (SEAL) ***** *****, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Primary Communicator for a Joint Task Force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 20 August 2003. When Chief Petty Officer *****’s convoy was savagely and suddenly ambushed while returning from conducting humanitarian operations, Chief Petty Officer ***** displayed great valor returning fire, despite receiving a gunshot wound in the leg from enemy fire. Although he was in intense pain from his wounds, Chief Petty Officer ***** rapidly identified the enemy positions and communicated them to overhead air support platforms, while personally engaging the enemy in a fire fight. As rocket-propelled grenades impacted within feet of his position, he calmly and precisely directed the air assets to suppress the enemy’s fire, organized the rear part of his convoy into a mobile team and enabled the convoy to escape the immediate area. After moving his teammates and all casualties to a secure area, Chief Petty Officer ***** initiated a medical evacuation, but personally refused to leave his team, despite his own wound. Several hours after the ambush, under cover of darkness, he boldly went back to the target area to recover critical items left behind by an adjoining unit. His brave actions without further casualties undoubtedly enabled his patrol to escape the area. By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Chief Petty Officer ***** reflected the highest credit upon himself and the military service great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.