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 Master Sergeant Christopher Adam Nelms, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 6 July 2013 during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States, as an Assistant Team Leader for a Joint Task Force in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. On this date, Master Sergeant Nelms’ steadfast courage and quick reactions enabled the assault force to capture a high value individual and eliminate over a dozen heavily armed barricaded enemy insurgents. His tactical expertise, determination, and selfless service prevented numerous friendly casualties and ensured mission success. Master Sergeant Nelms’ distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this Command, and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Christopher Adam Nelms, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 3 July 2014 during combat operations against an armed enemy of the United States as an Assault Team Leader for a Joint Task Force in support of Overseas Contingency Operations. Master Sergeant Nelms’ steadfast courage and quick reactions enabled the assault force to rapidly eliminate several armed guards. His tactical expertise, determination and selfless service prevented friendly casualties and ensured mission success during a high-risk operation. Master Sergeant Nelms’ distinctive accomplishment are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, this Command, and the United States Army.