The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Irvin M. Ceniceros, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as a Machine Gun Team Leader, Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, Regimental Combat Team 2, FIRST Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, in Afghanistan on 14 October 2010, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. When a dismounted patrol came under heavy fire from multiple firing positions, upon seeing two Marines pinned down by heavy fire in the open, he immediately established a support by fire position and effectively suppressed the enemy. As the patrol continued, the squad again took heavy machine gun fire from three directions, when it was forced to cross an open danger area. Again, he immediately moved to employ his machine gun and effectively suppress the enemy, thus allowing his squad to move to safety. Then as Lance Corporal Ceniceros moved into the open he became the focus of intense enemy fire. Demonstrating an indomitable spirit after being struck down by the enemy fire, he continued to move across 300 meters of open ground. Upon reaching cover he continued to suppress the enemy and despite attempts by others to treat his wounds, he refused medical attention and delivered devastating machine gun fire on the enemy until he lost consciousness and succumbed to his wounds. Lance Corporal Ceniceros unhesitating choice to sacrifice his own life for the protection his fellow Marines and for the execution of the mission, resulted in the success of his platoon. By his extraordinary gallantry, his zealous initiative, and total dedication to duty, Lance Corporal Ceniceros reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.