The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Byron J. Owen, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Platoon Commander, Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Second Battalion, Seventh Marine Regiment, Marine Corps Forces Central Command (Forward) on 8 August 2008 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Captain Owen was leading his platoon on a deliberate clear of the city of Shewan when they came under intense rocket propelled grenade, mortar and machinegun fire that destroyed a vehicle and trapped several Marines in the kill zone. Captain Owen immediately moved his vehicle into the kill zone so his gunner could suppress the enemy and allow the Marines to escape from their burning vehicle. Captain Owen exposed himself to heavy fire as he dismounted to coordinate the suppression of the enemy so the Marines could be recovered. Captain Owen did not leave the kill zone until all the Marines had been evacuated despite receiving sustained rocket propelled grenade and machinegun fire to his vehicle. Captain Owen led his platoon on a bold counter attack against the entrenched enemy that killed over 50 combatants, crushed the enemy’s resolve and drove the numerically superior Taliban force from the battlefield after eight hours of fighting. Captain Owens resolute leadership, bold decision making and superior integration of combined arms not only allowed the platoon to recover from a devastating ambush and turn the tide of battle, the decisive victory they achieved undermined Taliban dominion of Shewan and restored coalition freedom of movement in the area. By his courageous actions, zealous initiative, and complete dedication to duty, Captain Owen reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.