The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Thomas John Valentine, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as an Assault Troop Chief for a Joint Task Force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM from 1 to 15 April 2007 and in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM from 5 October 2007 to 15 January 2008. Senior Chief Petty Officer Valentine led his assault troop during numerous direct action combat missions in hostile and denied areas against hardened enemy fighters. These operations resulted in the elimination of multiple enemy fighters and the capture of several suspected terrorists. Constantly exposing himself to enemy fire, Senior Chief Petty Officer Valentine calmly led his troop through intense firefights where his quick thinking and inspiring leadership ensured mission success and saved the lives of his teammates. After months of continuous combat, Senior Chief Petty Officer Valentine’s troop eliminated the most senior terrorist leader in a critical region in Iraq, decimated a senior leadership media cell, and eliminated or captured seven other regional emirs. By his bold leadership, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Senior Chief Petty Officer Valentine reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.