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 Sergeant First Class Michael David Cortes, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Afghanistan on 26 June 2003. 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.