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 Sergeant James Witkowski, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 729th Transportation Company, during a combat logistics convoy battle in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, near Ashraf, Iraq, on 26 October 2005. Sergeant Witkowski is cited for heroic action against anti-Coalition forces when his convoy encountered a complex attack. Without regard for his own life, he provided suppressive fire on the enemy and absorbed the full shock of a hand grenade thrown at his gun truck, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. His supreme sacrifice and bravery reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the United States Army.