Specialist Erik Oropeza, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2d Infantry Division, on 22 May 2007 displayed extraordinary heroism as the risk of his life in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Specialist Oropeza demonstrated the highest degree of physical courage coupled with uncommon fortitude while engaged in combat operations against a fanatical enemy. His valorous actions following a deliberate ambush were directly responsible for preventing his vehicle and crew from being overrun by a superior enemy force. His own carbine destroyed, Specialist Oropeza defended his severely wounded crewmembers with the nearest available weapon and defeated a five-man enemy ground assault force maneuvering against him. Specialist Oropeza’s extraordinary heroism and selflessness at the risk of his own life are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon him, the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.