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 Sergeant Rocky W. Bloom, United States Army, for valorous achievement on 14 November 2010, while serving as a team leader for 3d Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), in support of Operation Enduring Freedom X-XI. Sergeant Bloom demonstrated the highest standard of performance and valor, saving the lives of several Soldiers by leaving cover on multiple occasions, securing an Afghan National Army M-240B machine gun, and suppressing the enemy, preventing them from overrunning the platoon’s position during an operation in the Watapur Valley, Afghanistan. His selfless actions and disregard for personal safety saved the lives of numerous Soldiers, reflecting great credit upon him, the 1st Brigade Combat Team, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and the United States Army.