The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Carlos Gomez-Perez, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Fire Team Leader, First Platoon, Echo Company, Second Battalion, First Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, FIRST Marine Division, U.S. Marine Corps, Central command in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 26 April 2004. While conducting security patrols in Al Fallujah, Iraq, Lance Corporal Gomez-Perez’ platoon secured two buildings from which to observe enemy movement. At 1100, a numerically superior enemy force attacked the platoon with rocket-propelled grenades and machine gun fire from three directions. During the first 15 minutes of the attack, the enemy closed to within 20 meters of the platoon, wounding many Marines on the rooftop position. After ensuring wounded platoon members received medical treatment, Lance Corporal Gomez-Perez rushed to reinforce the critical rooftop position. After enemy fire wounded one of his comrades, Lance Corporal Gomez-Perez courageously exposed himself to enemy fire to move the Marine to safety and was wounded through the right shoulder and cheek during the process. Despite his injuries, he again exposed himself to enemy fire and continued to attack the enemy with grenades and by firing his rifle with his uninjured arm. Lance Corporal Gomez-Perez’ fierce defense halted a determined enemy assault and enabled the evacuation of wounded Marines. By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Lance Corporal Gomez-Perez reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.