(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 Specialist Richard W. Gregory, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving as a 60-mm. Mortar Gunner with Company B, 2d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM at Lwara, Afghanistan, on 21 December 2005. His initiative, personal courage, and ability to engage and destroy the enemy under great stress set him apart from his peers. 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.