The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Gunnery Sergeant Jody Wagner, United States Marine Corps, for heroic achievement in connection with combat operations involving conflict with an opposing force while serving as Team Operations Staff Non-Commissioned Officer, Marine Special Operations Team 5, Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command in Regional Command West, Afghanistan from 28 May 2008 to 5 December 2008. During this period, Staff Sergeant Wagner performed his duties in a professional and highly exemplary manner. On 3 September 2008, his patrol came under attack. The patrol was receiving heavy and accurate fire from the front and both flanks. Under heavy enemy fire he moved across open terrain in order to retrieve ammunition for the Teams 60-MM. mortar and moved it to the front of the patrol. The mortar was utilized to break-up enemy formations moving to attack the patrol and proved pivotal in the success of the patrols mission. On 28 October 2008, Staff Sergeant Wagner’s patrol again came under intense enemy fire. When called upon to assist the patrols Alpha Section, Staff Sergeant Wagner crossed several danger areas, advanced on the enemy’s positions and cleared several enemy held compounds. He then came to the assistance of another patrol member who fell near him after being wounded. He assisted in the care of the injured Marine while receiving enemy small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire. He then continued to move and engage enemy combatants from multiple locations. By his zealous leadership, courageous actions, and dedication to duty, Staff Sergeant Wagner reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. (The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.)