Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    Headquarters Battalion

    Division:

    II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward)

    Action Date:

    February 13, 2007

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Daniel A. Gire, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Radio Operator, Supporting Arms Liaison Team D, 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Headquarters Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), on 13 February 2007 in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. Corporal Gire’s Supporting Arms Liaison Team was operating with elements of Task Force 3-69 Armor, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division in Ar Ramadi, when it was attacked by insurgent forces. While conducting a tactical withdrawal under fire, his team was attacked by an improvised explosive device and machine gun fire that wounded all members of the team. Corporal Gire was knocked to the ground and wounded in the blast. Rising amid the hail of bullets and rocket-propelled grenades that were impacting within ten feet of his position, he rushed to the aid of his team leader and dragged the semiconscious captain to a nearby house. It soon became evident that the team was stranded, and the quick reaction force that had been sent to retrieve them had proceeded to the wrong location. Unable to wield his squad automatic weapon due to wounds to his right arm, Corporal Gire wedged an M-4 Carbine into his non-firing hand. Under direct fire from the enemy, Corporal Gire charged the house, firing as he ran, and linked up with the Bradley Fighting Vehicles that had passed his position without stopping. He led the Bradley Fighting Vehicles back to the house, where they rescued the other three seriously wounded Americans. By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Corporal Gire reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.