(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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Israel Garcia, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with Company C, 2d Battalion, 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Kunar Province, Afghanistan., on 13 July 2008. Sergeant Garcia’s fearless reinforcement of the observation post was pivotal in preventing the decisive terrain from being overrun, and in allowing C Company to repel the determined enemy assault. Sergeant Garcia gave his life while closing with the enemy to assist his fellow paratroopers, and his actions saved the day when almost all was lost. 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.