The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) ***** *****, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as an Assault Team Leader for a Joint Task Force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 8 December 2012. While on approach to the target compound for the hostage rescue of a civilian, Chief Petty Officer ***** identified that an armed sentry who ran back inside the target compound had compromised the assault team. Understanding that time was of the essence, he courageously led his team immediately inside the target compound. With complete disregard for his own safety, he entered the structure under enemy fire from within, engaged one enemy combatant, and then dragged his downed teammate outside so he could receive medical treatment. Chief Petty Officer ***** immediately reentered the compound, where he observed an enemy combatant aiming a weapon at the hostage and a teammate who was protecting the hostage with his own body. Without hesitation, Chief Petty Officer ***** instinctively engaged the enemy, removing the last threat to the hostage and assault force. His heroic actions and decisive leadership under fire saved the lives of the hostage and several of his teammates, enabling the strategic success of the mission. By his bold initiative and undaunted courage under fire, and complete dedication to duty, Chief Petty Officer ***** reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.