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 Robert O. Sanderlin, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Detachment Team Sergeant, Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 725 (ODA-725), 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, during combat operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, in Afghanistan, on 8 April 2007. On that date, while under intense enemy fire from a coordinated Taliban ambush, Sergeant First Class Sanderlin maneuvered dismounted over 300 meters and accurately engaged the enemy with three 84-millimeter high explosive rounds, while transporting a wounded team member out of the kill zone. He was instrumental in pinpointing and facilitating the setup and security of a helicopter landing zone. Sergeant First Class Sanderlin provided a steady stream of suppressive fire so the medics could provide advanced trauma care for his wounded comrade. His exhibition of valor under intense fire throughout the day greatly contributed to the overall safety of the detachment and demonstrated his unwavering dedication to duty. Sergeant First Class Sanderlin’s valorous actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.