The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Ryan B. Cohen, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, Regimental Combat Team 2, FIRST Marine Division (Forward), I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Afghanistan, from 1 April 2010 to 15 September 2010 in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. During numerous engagements with enemy forces, Captain Cohen disregarded enemy fire to provide front-line leadership. On 23 June 2010, in Southern Musa Qulah, his force came under heavy machine gun and mortar fire. With rounds impacting around his position, he personally led his Marines into the fire to assault the enemy position. Repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire to locate their positions, he coordinated air support while leading the assault. His fearless actions under fire eliminated the enemy position, an estimated 20 enemy fighters. On 20 July 2010, while seizing key terrain near the Helmand River, Captain Cohen’s Marines were stopped by withering enemy machine gun and mortar fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he calmly moved through the fire and encouraged his Marines to assault the enemy. He then grabbed a Marine and personally led him through enemy fire to a firing position, and directed a shoulder launched missile strike on the enemy’s machine gun position. His bold act silenced the enemy fire and enabled his Marines to continue their mission. His battlefield valor continuously inspired his Marines to overcome enemy resistance and accomplish their mission. By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Captain Cohen reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.