(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 Lonnie James Parson, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with the 3d Battalion, 7th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Iraq, on 13 December 2003. Staff Sergeant Parson’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, the 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.