(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 Captain (Infantry) Stephen Paul Szymanski, United States Army, for gallantry in action in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, in Iraq, while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 3d Infantry Division in Support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, on 23 March 2003. Captain Szymanski’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 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.