The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Special Warfare Operator First Class (SEAL) ***** *****, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Joint Tactical Air Controller at Naval Special Warfare Task Unit-Fallujah, in direct support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 13 September 2007. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and courage in the face of the enemy, he controlled four “danger close” fire support missions from an AC-130 gunship to kill four enemies and protect seven SEALs, an explosive ordnance disposal technician and a civilian. As his team patrolled through thick vegetation, they were engaged by two enemy machine guns less than 30 feet away. With total disregard for his own safety, he advanced into enemy fire to aid two wounded SEALs. Displaying remarkable composure, he quickly called in a fire mission against the enemy machine gun positions. As the rounds impacted around him, he maneuvered to the wounded and pulled them to cover. He then called in another fire mission as he came out from behind cover to boldly move forward into enemy fire to aid his wounded team leader. As rounds landed behind the enemy, he calmly and deliberately walked the AC-130 fire onto the enemy position and pulled his team leader to safety. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Petty Officer ***** reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions to the United States Naval Service.