(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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Jason Robert Harkins, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 3d Platoon, Company A, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade, 2d Infantry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 17 March 2007, in Iraq. Staff Sergeant Harkins’ squad was ambushed and several Soldiers were initially wounded during the ensuing fire fight. Staff Sergeant Harkins, wounded himself, organized a perimeter to gain fire superiority which defeated insurgent forces, and conducted casualty evacuation for three wounded soldiers. Staff Sergeant Harkins’ 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, his unit, and the United States Army.