The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Timothy R. Sparks, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Company Commander, Company B, First Battalion, Sixth Marine Regiment, Second Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan on 13 February 2010 in support of Operation MOSHTARAK. In the early morning hours, Company B conducted a low-light heliborne assault to seize the Taliban stronghold in the Koru Chareh village. As the company maneuvered to assault the enemy positions, a like-size enemy force attacked Company B from all directions with a heavy volume of small arms and indirect fires. Undaunted by the enemy fires, Captain Sparks moved from position to position, covering hundreds of meters of open terrain in order to effectively direct his platoons. With complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Sparks led his company from the front, refusing to lose momentum and cede the initiative to the enemy. As the Company pushed into the village, Captain Sparks remained well-forward, spearheading the assault to seize key terrain and gain a foothold. He and his men continued to fight off the Taliban counter-attack through the night. During heavy fighting the following day, he personally led an ambush of an enemy force as it displaced, destroying ten insurgents and a sniper. Over the next several days, the company expanded its foothold in Marjah and encountered stiff resistance. Throughout numerous direct fire engagements, Captain Sparks’ calm demeanor, confidence under fire, and exceptional tactical prowess ensured he was always at the point of friction. By his bold leadership, determination, and complete dedication to duty, Captain Sparks reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.