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 Benjamin J. Konrad, United States Army, for exceptionally valorous conduct in the face of the enemy of the United States as Weapons Sergeant, Operational Detachment Alpha 3136 (ODA-3136), 1st Battalion, 3d Special Forces Group (Airborne), Special Operations Task Force – 33, Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM from 26 August to 13 September 2006. Sergeant First Class Konrad’s personal courage and commitment to mission accomplishment in a combat zone, under the most extreme circumstances, greatly contributed to the success of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. He distinguished himself through exceptional leadership and valor during Operation MEDUSA. Sergeant First Class Konrad’s actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, the Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.