The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Donald Ryan McGlothlin, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Rifle Platoon Commander, Second Platoon, Company F, Battalion Landing Team 2/1, Thirteenth Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), Regimental Combat Team TWO, SECOND Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in New Ubaydi, Iraq, on 16 November 2005. During Operation STEEL CURTAIN, Second Lieutenant McGlothlin’s platoon was engaged by 21 enemy personnel. The enemy delivered frontal and flanking automatic fire from four well-fortified, mutually supporting positions. Upon enemy contact, he boldly maneuvered an attached tank section forward to support his platoon. Learning that the forward squad had sustained heavy casualties and with complete disregard for his own safety, Second Lieutenant McGlothlin maneuvered through the insurgents’ strongpoint and immediately engaged the insurgents to secure and recover his embattled Marines. Six enemy personnel had the hallway and interior rooms of the building covered with automatic weapons fire and threw grenades from recessed firing ports within the walls. While his last Marine was being evacuated from the building, Second Lieutenant McGlothlin shielded the recovery effort from grenade blasts and commenced a fierce exchange of small arms fire with the enemy until he was mortally wounded. His valiant and selfless actions saved the lives of two Marines and were critical in the company eliminating 18 insurgents in an intense firefight. By his bold leadership, selfless act of bravery, and complete dedication to duty, Second Lieutenant McGlothlin reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.