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 Specialist James David Ashley, United States Army, for gallantry in action while performing his duties as a dismounted squad member in the 1st Platoon, Troop K, 3d Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment, in action on 12 November 2008, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, in Iraq. On that date, Specialist Ashley was on dismounted patrol in Mosul, Iraq. While securing the courtyard of a small building in the platoon’s sector, an Iraqi army soldier in uniform opened fire on him and his platoon, killing one soldier, and mortally wounding another. Without thinking and acting only on instinct, Specialist Ashley grabbed the private next to him and pushed the Soldier to cover. He then found cover and returned fire on the shooter. Shot in the face, he disregarded his injuries and continued to fire until the threat was neutralized. He then secured the three rooms of the building and continued to provide perimeter security. Refusing evacuation due to his wounds, as the platoon evacuated, Specialist Ashley took over one of the vehicles as truck command, a role he volunteered to perform and normally reserved for a noncommissioned officer. Specialist Ashley’s action saved the lives of 12 men in his unit.
NARRATIVE TO ACCOMPANY AWARD:
Specialist James David Ashley displayed exceptionally valorous conduct while performing his duties as a dismounted squad member in 1st platoon, Killer Troop, 3d Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment. On 12 November 2008, 1st Platoon, Killer Troop, conducted movement to the Zinjali traffic circle, Mosul, Iraq, in order to conduct SOI engagement with 1st Company, 2nd Battalion, National Police, who are co-located with elements of the 1/6/2 Iraqi Army. Upon entering the Iraqi compound, Specialist Ashley assumed a security position in the courtyard area while his platoon leader moved into the commander’s office to conduct SOI engagements, while the SOI engagement was being conducted, an IA soldier walked out of a nearby room and began firing an AK-47 assault weapon, charged with a 75 round drum magazine, into American Soldiers who were also pulling security into the courtyard. Showing unequaled courage and bravery Specialist Ashley pushed one of his fellow platoon members out of the line of fire before finding cover for himself. As Specialist Ashley dove to the ground, he was struck by enemy fire in the face. Specialist Ashley faced multiple rounds of incoming fire passing only inches from him. He fired over 60 rounds into the combatant before the extremely close quarters firefight was complete. When the enemy gunman was effectively neutralized, Specialist Ashley stood to find one American Soldier KIA and four others wounded. Disregarding the fact that he was bleeding from his wounds, and his body armor was covered in blood, Specialist Ashley did not seek medical attention; he only asked where his help was needed. There were three nearby rooms with unknown occupants. Specialist Ashley moved with two of his fellow Soldiers to clear the rooms and secure all individuals within them in a centralized location. After this was complete and the site was considered under control, Specialist Ashley took a knee and pulled security, preparing for a second attack, despite having been told multiple times that he could move to a vehicle. Specialist Ashley’s TC, Staff Sgt. Greenwood, had been injured during the attack and was taken to the Combat Support Hospital, leaving no TC for his vehicle. Specialist Ashley quickly volunteered for the position and was granted permission to enable to the remaining HMMVV’s to move to the CSH. The actions of Specialist Ashley saved the lives of twelve American Soldiers. His heroism and courage are an inspiration to all American Soldiers. Specialist Ashley’s actions demonstrate the highest qualities of Cavalry excellence and reflect distinct credit upon himself, Thunder Squadron, the Regiment of the Mounted Riflemen, and the United States Army.