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 Technical Sergeant Eric J. Brandenburg, Jr., United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 17th Air Support Operations Squadron, 18th Air Support Operations Group, in support of elements of the U.S. Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, during the opening stages of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM from 31 March 2003 to 5 April 2003. During this period, while serving as Battalion Enlisted Terminal Attack Controller Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge, Sergeant Brandenburg’s company began receiving heavy direct and effective fire from small arms, ZPU-23s, mortars and artillery. As the first wave of Iraqis approached to within 30 meters of his position and with rocket propelled grenades exploding directly over him, Sergeant Brandenburg engaged the enemy with his personal weapon while simultaneously requesting and controlling close air support. Throughout the next 72 hours, Sergeant Brandenburg, in complete disregard for his own safety, moved to the most forward vantage points exposing himself to the intense artillery barrage while simultaneously directing as many as 17 aircraft at one time, beating the enemy back. On the third morning of the assault they received extremely heavy and accurate artillery fire, over 300 rounds within 8 hours. Undaunted after being blown into the air by an exploding artillery shell, he continued to move forward without cover to control airstrikes against the relentless enemy. As a result of his courage and calmness under extremely adverse conditions, Sergeant Brandenburg was responsible for more than 200 enemy casualties and the destruction of twenty tanks, ten 155-millimeter artillery, twenty mortar tubs, ten military vehicles, fifteen buildings, two boats and a radar dish. His skill and situational awareness were decisive in the battle and ensured mission success and the safety of 152 Rangers. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Brandenburg has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.