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 Specialist David J. Bixler, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy as a member of the 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan, on 30 September 2010. Specialist Bixler’s heroic actions during combat operations in Afghanistan saved the life of an Afghan National Army Soldier partnered with his platoon. Specialist Bixler’s brave action in securing a comrade in immediate danger was unwavering despite the great personal risk to himself. Specialist Bixler’s gallantry, selflessness, and courage in combat is in keeping with the finest traditions of military heroism and reflects great credit upon himself, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, Combined Task Force Top Guns, Combined Task Force Strike, USFOR-A, and the United States Army.