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 Major General Bufford C. Blount, III, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force as Commanding General of the 3d Infantry Division in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM during the Battle for Baghdad in March and April 2003. Under Major General Blount’s expert leadership the 3d Infantry Division attacked 350 miles inside the country of Iraq, winning each battle decisively, capturing Baghdad City, and ultimately causing the complete destruction of Saddam Hussein’s regime. Major General Blount continuously placed himself at the key point of the battle to provide command and control of the Division on a fast_paced and violent battlefield. His gallantry in combat and relentless determination to defeat the enemy is in keeping with the highest traditions of senior military leadership. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, the 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.