The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” (Posthumously) to Hospital Corpsman Third Class James R. Layton, United States Navy, for heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as Team Medical Advisor-Mentor, 1st Kandak, 2d Brigade, 201st Corps, Afghan National Army, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 8 September 2009. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Layton was the Medical Corpsman of a four-man Marine element that led the way into the western part of the Ganjgal village accompanied by their Afghan National Army counterparts. After the team was pinned down on three sides in an ambush, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Layton fearlessly fought the enemy forces and attended to the wounds of his team. When exposed to a hail of rocket and machine gun fire, he returned fire while gallantly attempting to save the life of his team leader. He continued to demonstrate extraordinary courage and determination until he was himself mortally wounded. By his example, selfless initiative, and total dedication to duty Petty Officer Third Class Layton reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Hospital Corpsman Third Class Layton is authorized the Combat “V”.)