The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Kraig M. Vickers, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Leading Chief Petty Officer while assigned to a Joint Task Force in direct support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 17 March 2010. Chief Petty Officer Vickers was part of a ground force element that executed a daring direct action mission against a heavily armed Taliban commander deep inside enemy territory. Upon setting containment, the assault force came under heavy enemy fire. One team member became mortally wounded and others trying to assist him were pinned down. With complete disregard for his own safety and under effective enemy fire, Chief Petty Officer Vickers maneuvered to an exposed rooftop position and engaged the barricaded insurgents. While preparing to employ a grenade against the bunkered enemy position, he was struck in the wrist by an enemy round. Still receiving fire from below, Chief Petty Officer Vickers crawled, maintaining control of the live grenade, which he deployed into the open door of the building. He then remained steadfast in an exposed position and resumed exchanging fire through the roof, thereby eliminating the enemy and safeguarding his teammates during the recovery of their wounded team member. By his bold leadership, courageous actions, and unyielding devotion to duty, Chief Petty Officer Vickers reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.