(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Staff Sergeant Christopher M. Cunningham, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with Company C, 3d Squadron, 72d Cavalry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan on 21 June 2006. Staff Sergeant Cunningham was conducting reconnaissance operations with his 16-member patrol when it was violently attacked and pinned down by an enemy force of over 60 fighters. He quickly organized a hasty defense and controlled the fight. His courageous leadership helped defeat the enemy attack, saved his patrol and left 22 enemy fighters dead. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.