For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Squad Leader, 1st Platoon, Company D, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, Regimental Combat Team 6, 1st Marine Division (Forward), I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM from 22 June 2012 to 23 June 2012. After the completion of an air assault into Qaleh-Ye Gaz, Sergeant Rick and his squad were attacked from multiple positions by high volumes of medium machinegun and indirect fire. Sergeant Rick subjected himself to the enemy fire four times to employ his M4 Carbine and M203 grenade launcher accurately while directing the maneuver of his Squad. By his leadership, his squad provided devastating fires on the enemy, forcing their immediate withdrawal. Later that day, with complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Rick forfeited cover and ran out of the patrol base, covering 200 meters of open ground, to lead a security team and recover a mortally wounded Marine. Though enemy rounds impacted within feet of his position as the security team maneuvered to the patrol base, Sergeant Rick calmly directed the fire of the squad. He remained outside the patrol base, suppressing the enemy, until all of his Marines were safely inside. The following day Sergeant Rick again led his squad to counter a complex ambush. The precision fire he employed from his grenade launcher destroyed two enemy fighters and oriented close air support aircraft onto their targets, ultimately leading to the destruction of the enemy. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Sergeant Rick reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Christopher J. Moore