The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Intelligence Specialist (SEAL) ***** *****, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Assault Team Member assigned to a Joint Task Force conducting Special Operations in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 21 May 2006. Chief ***** was part of a 27-man element that executed a complex and daring direct action mission against a larger, heavily armed enemy force. His team successfully penetrated enemy territory and eliminated numerous enemy fighters during a four-hour firefight. While clearing the objective, Chief ***** confronted two barricaded fighters, who threw a grenade and severely injured his teammate as he prepared to enter the building. With total disregard for his own safety, he pulled his teammate out of the line of fire and engaged the enemy. Immediately after the building was attacked with two grenades, Chief ***** entered the building and helped eliminate the two barricaded fighters. His heroic bravery during intense combat operations was an inspiration to the assault team. Chief *****’s bold leadership, resolute determination, and total devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.