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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Patrick Shannon Tainsh, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Gunner with Troop E, 2d Squadron, 2d Armored Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on the night of 11 February 2004. On that date, during an enemy ambush involving an IED, Sergeant Tainsh, in complete disregard for his own safety and well being, returned fire while mortally wounded, allowing aid to be rendered to his fellow soldiers. His professionalism, leadership, courage under fire, and performance of duty against such overwhelming odds uphold the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 2d Armored Cavalry Regiment, Combined Joint Task Force SEVEN, and the United States Army.