The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Nicholas J. Horton, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Third Platoon Commander, Alpha Company, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 10 April 2003. While conducting a mission along Route 2 into the heart of downtown Baghdad, Second Lieutenant Horton’s Battalion was attacked from both sides of the road. He directed suppressive fires while continuing towards the objective. As Alpha Company attacked through an enemy position it encountered a dead-end and began taking intense rocket-propelled grenades (RPG) and small arms fire. Second Lieutenant Horton directed his platoon to return fire, effectively suppressing the enemy. He subsequently took over navigation for the company and led them out of the kill zone. In a subsequent firefight, his track was hit causing casualties in the troop compartment and setting off the halon system. He quickly calmed the Marines and reoriented their fire to suppress the enemy. Continuing the advance, Third Platoon was tasked with clearing a Mosque. After establishing suppression and a mechanical breach into the complex, Second Lieutenant Horton assessed the situation and requested Second Platoon. Second Lieutenant Horton directed their actions, intermingling them with his own platoon in order to clear the multi-story complex. His assault led to the capture of 20 enemy prisoners of war, 14 RPGs, numerous machine guns and small arms. He executed the entire action inside the Mosque without physical on-scene guidance from the Company Commander. By his bold leadership, outstanding judgment, and complete dedication to duty, Second Lieutenant Horton reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.