The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Thomas E. Cogan, IV, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Platoon Commander, Third Platoon, Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central Command in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM II from 6 to 10 April 2004. Second Lieutenant Cogan’s initiative, valor, and forceful leadership while under fire from fortified positions was instrumental in accomplishing the Company’s mission. On 6 April 2004, Second Platoon was ambushed by enemy forces while moving to reinforce a heavily engaged unit. With total disregard for his own personal safety, Second Lieutenant Cogan led his platoon across a fire-swept field and directed fire, which destroyed insurgent strongholds. On 10 April 2004, while conducting a sweep of suspected insurgent houses, his platoon and the company command element came under withering enemy fire. Though caught in the crossfire, he exposed himself to direct fire in order to cross an open field and position himself to direct fires on the enemy. His actions enabled the company command element to move to safety. After consolidating his platoon, Second Lieutenant Cogan led his men through a fierce, three- hour, house-to-house assault that destroyed remaining enemy forces in his zone of action. Second Lieutenant Cogan’s bold leadership, total effectiveness, and unyielding devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.