(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 Colonel (Infantry) David Gerard Perkins, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while Commanding the 2d Brigade Combat Team, 3d Infantry Division, during combat actions in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 7 April 2003, in Iraq. Colonel Perkins led his forces in his M113 Armored Personnel Carrier, at breakneck speed across the Iraq desert from Kuwait, in the “Thunder Run” to liberate Baghdad. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Perkins, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.