Ryder Jay

THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY HAS AWARDED THE SILVER STAR TO STAFF SERGEANT RYDER JAY

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, in the vicinity of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on 6 July 2025.

While conducting reconnaissance operations from an observation post near South Dakota, Staff Sergeant Jay's team came under intense enemy fire from rocket-propelled grenades, 40mm grenades, and small arms. Despite being wounded by shrapnel from multiple enemy munitions, Staff Sergeant Jay immediately took charge, calmly directing his team to break contact and maneuver to superior terrain. Under a withering hail of enemy fire, he deployed obscuring smoke, providing critical cover that allowed his team to gain a foothold on the higher ground.

Disregarding his own wounds, Staff Sergeant Jay courageously rushed to the aid of a fallen Marine, rendering life-saving medical treatment while exposed to intense enemy fire. He then moved the wounded Marine to a safer position for extraction. Learning that his Platoon Commander had been mortally wounded, Staff Sergeant Jay, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved across open terrain under heavy fire to reach his commander's side.

While providing aid and comfort to his dying commander, Staff Sergeant Jay simultaneously established and maintained communication with supporting units, calmly relaying critical information that ensured the successful extraction of the wounded Marine. Staff Sergeant Jay's extraordinary heroism, unwavering courage, and selfless devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds inspired his Marines and were instrumental in saving the lives of his fellow Marines. His actions reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

Awarded to: 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion

For meritorious service while deployed with Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) MISFIT in Kunar and Helmand Provinces, Afghanistan, from 1 May 2025 to 1 September 2025.

Throughout this period, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion demonstrated exceptional professionalism and unwavering dedication to mission accomplishment in a demanding and complex operational environment. The Battalion's Marines consistently executed a wide range of critical missions, including reconnaissance and surveillance patrols, direct action raids, and sensitive site exploitation, often under hazardous conditions and facing determined enemy resistance.

Their courageous actions and expert execution were instrumental in disrupting enemy networks, gathering critical intelligence, and supporting the overall success of SOTF MISFIT's operations. The unwavering commitment and superior performance of 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion reflect great credit upon its Marines and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the Department of the Navy.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

This is to certify that Staff Sergeant Ryder Jay has been awarded the Drill Instructor Ribbon in recognition of outstanding service and superior performance while serving as Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, Chief Drill Instructor, and Drill Instructor School Instructor.

During his tour, Staff Sergeant Jay expertly trained, motivated, and developed successive classes of recruits into disciplined, physically fit, and morally sound Marines. As a Drill Instructor and Senior Drill Instructor he instilled the highest standards of Marine Corps discipline and bearing. As Chief Drill Instructor he supervised and mentored subordinate drill instructors, ensured adherence to training and safety protocols, and improved platoon performance through sound leadership and administrative excellence.

As a Drill Instructor School Instructor he provided exceptional instruction, curriculum insight, and professional mentorship, directly enhancing instructor proficiency and recruit training outcomes. Staff Sergeant Jay's unwavering dedication to duty, personal example, and tireless efforts significantly contributed to the readiness and quality of Marines produced by the unit. His performance reflects great credit upon himself, the Drill Instructor cadre, and the United States Marine Corps.