The Silver Star is awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States not justifying a higher award. It may be awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S Armed Forces, distinguishes himself or herself by extraordinary heroism involving one of the following actions:
In action against an enemy of the United States:

While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force
While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party

The Silver Star differs from the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross or Air Force Cross, in that it requires a lesser degree of gallantry and need not be earned while in a position of great responsibility. Soldiers who received a citation for gallantry in action during World War I were eligible to apply to have the citation converted to the Silver Star Medal.

The authors have compiled this stirring collection of profiles in courage to honour the Sailors and Marines awarded the Silver Star by the U.S. Navy while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. It documents the extraordinary, award-winning actions of young American men in the war against global terrorism.

A companion volume to The Navy Cross (Naval Institute Press, 2007), this book also includes selected profiles of Silver Star recipients from previous wars whose stories stand out as the best among an elite group. It is the first book to recognize and preserve for future generations the selfless dedication shown by Silver Star medalists in their fight for freedom.