The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Sergeant Dennis K. Derr, II, United States Marine Corps, for heroic service in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as Jump Platoon Commander, Headquarters and Service Company, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, Regiment Combat Team Seven, FIRST Marine Division (Forward), I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Afghanistan, from 1 February 2010 to 1 August 2010 in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Sergeant Derr traveled more than 5,000 miles and conducted 200 combat patrols. On 14 February 2010, his patrol came under accurate enemy machine gun and Rocket Propelled Grenade fire thus pinning down most of the patrol. Knowing that his position was untenable, he called for support from his mounted element. With complete disregard for his own safety, he maneuvered through effective enemy fire, established identification of the enemy machine gun position, brought the turret gunners onto the target, and then personally engaged the enemy with effective fire. His use of combined arms enabled the patrol to maneuver to safety. His decisive thinking and situational awareness while under direct enemy fire effectively reduced the enemy threat and minimized the possibility of injury and loss of life. His leadership was a direct reflection of the professionalism that the Jump Platoon exhibited during seven months of combat operations. He represents a textbook display of the fighter leader concept. By his extraordinary guidance, zealous initiative, and total dedication to duty, Sergeant Derr reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Sergeant Derr is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)