The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major [then Second Lieutenant] Michael Seely, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy on 23 March 2003 while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company C, First Battalion, Second Marines, Task Force TARAWA, I Marine Expeditionary Force in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. During a company assault on a bridge at An Nasiriyah, Iraq, Lieutenant Seely’s amphibious assault vehicle sustained a direct hit form an enemy rocket propelled grenade, destroying his radio, setting the vehicle afire, and wounding four Marines inside. He maneuvered the stricken vehicle to a covered position, and ensured the casualties were evacuated. Under a barrage of enemy direct and indirect fire, he calmly organized and directed his now-dismounted platoon into position to repel the enemy attack, integrating his defenses wit h an adjacent platoon. The company then began taking lethal fire from a friendly close air support aircraft. Demonstrating personal bravery and presence of mind, Lieutenant Seely directed employment of pyrotechnics to mark friendly positions, and crossed fire-swept terrain to reach a radio with which he was able to cease the strafing. His quick thinking and tactical acumen in responding to the enemy attack and the friendly fire situation avert ed many casualties during this pitched battle, and contributed greatly to the company completing its mission. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Second Lieutenant Seely reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service and the United States Marine Corps.