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 Assault Team Member at Joint Task Force, in direct support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 16 November 2007. Petty Officer ***** was part of a daring and complex direct action assault against a fortified and heavily armed enemy located in a trench line. As his assault force penetrated deep into enemy territory, they engaged terrorist fighters during a four-hour firefight. Petty Officer ***** and a teammate repeatedly maneuvered to unsupported positions and fearlessly exposed themselves to direct enemy fire to provide suppressing fire for his assault force. After his military working dog team was wounded by enemy fire and with total disregard for his safety, he bounded forward and engaged the entrenched enemy position with small arms fire and hand grenades, eliminating two enemy fighters. Exposed to enemy flanking fire, he continued to engage the enemy until his wounded teammate reached cover. Petty Officer *****’s heroism under direct enemy fire clearly saved lives and ultimately led to the elimination of several enemy combatants. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Petty Officer ***** reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.