MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (Feb. 8, 2006) -- While fencing in high school and college, every elegant move made by Capt. Brain R. von Kraus was well thought out, even in the most heated duels. These same swift, but calculated decisions were made on Jan. 25, 2004 during an ambush where then 1st Lt. Von Kraus displayed exceptional bravery as he dismounted his vehicle and entered the enemy kill zone to aid his stricken Marines. For these actions, von Kraus was awarded the Silver Star here Feb. 8 by Maj. Gen. Richard F. Natonski, commanding general of the...