(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 Russton Blake Kramer, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving as a Special Forces Sergeant in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq during Operation VIKING HAMMER in Northern Iraq from 28 to 30 March 2003. Staff Sergeant Kramer’s 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.