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 Sergeant First Class Lucas J. Young, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with Combined Joint Task Force 101 in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in the Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, on 11 September 2008. Sergeant First Class Young’s Squad Leader was critically injured and separated from the rest of the element during the opening moments of an ambush. He led the rest of the squad across hazardous open terrain while under enemy fire to recover his fellow Soldier. He later directed his platoon’s assault during a larger operation against enemy positions. After repelling attacks, he organized the evacuation of several casualties making sure that no fallen Soldier was left behind. His leadership saved the lives of fellow Soldiers and resulted in at least nine enemy killed. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.