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On 13 JAN 05 at 1415 hrs the Snake 1 element, the sniper team for 3-153 IN, consisting of SGT H******, SPC B

and SPC G****, heard mortar launches from their hide position. They were not in position to observe the enemy. Snake quickly vacated their sniper position and maneuvered down the street until they had a visual on the security element of an enemy mortar position. They repositioned themselves so they could cover 3 of the 4 potential egress routes that the enemy could use. The sniper team only consisted of 3 men. They had a visual on twice that number of AIF. The AIF were armed with numerous weapon systems to include RPGs, PKCs, Grenades, a FN FAL sniper rifle and 72mm heat seaking rocket in addition to the 60mm and 82 mm mortar systems. Our sniper team was no doubt out manned and out gunned. In spite of that the Snake element engaged the enemy with aggressive, well aimed fire, killing two AIF quickly before an RPG was fired and struck half way between SPC G**** and SPC B

. G**** was hit with shrapnel but maintained his position and continued to engage the enemy. B*******was momentarily knocked unconscious. SGT H****** maneuvered while under fire to check on his men. B******* quickly regained his senses and all three soldiers continued to maintain the pressure on the enemy while waiting for QRF. By the time assistance arrived on the scene the sniper team had killed 6 AIF and destroyed 3 AIF vehicles with small arms fire. US embeds arrived with a section of ING to assist at approximately 1426 Hrs. At approximately 1430 hrs a QRF platoon of infantry from C/3-153 arrived. All forces under 1LT Mc***** of C/3-153 began searching homes where AIF was believed to had fled. The QRF moved towards one home and was engaged by an AIF with an AK 47 from the court-yard. The QRF eliminated the threat with a hand grenade. An estimated 4 to 5 AIF were able to escape with the mortar tubes. After all US forces consolidated and reorganized the wounded soldier was flown to the CSH from FOB Solidarity. These three snipers performed their duty in keeping with the highest traditions of the US Army Infantry and deserve to be recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty.