(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Specialist Vincent Hoover, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 22d Infantry Regiment, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq in January 2009. While conducting a patrol in Baghdad, a grenade was thrown into Specialist Hoover’s vehicle. He immediately grabbed the explosive device and threw it outside while yelling to the driver to leave the vicinity. The grenade immediately exploded after being thrown out and the lives of all in the vehicle were saved. Specialist Hoover’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 2d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.