The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) David J. Tiedeman, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while assigned to 1st Squadron, 278th Regimental Combat Team, Military Transition Team, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, from 4 April 2005 to 5 April 2005, near Balad Ruz, Iraq. While serving as an advisor to 6th Battalion, 3d Division, Iraqi Army, First Lieutenant Tiedeman subjected himself to enemy fire on several occasions in order to direct fire which effectively neutralized insurgent positions. On two such occasions, he crossed the battlefield under enemy fire to render aid to his fallen comrades. As one of his soldiers lay wounded and pinned down in a canal, First Lieutenant Tiedeman risked his own life by entering the canal to evacuate him. First Lieutenant Tiedeman truly represents the Warrior Ethos, and his actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service, reflecting distinct credit upon himself, the 278th Regimental Combat Team, and the United States Army.