Maj. Gen. Paul J. Kennedy addresses the audience during a Navy Cross ceremony for retired Marine Staff Sgt. Eric M. Smith in Irving, Texas, Sept. 14, 2017. Smith was awarded the Navy Cross for his courageous actions in 2004 while serving as a squad leader with Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marine Regiment, First Marine Division, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Smith currently serves as a lieutenant paramedic with the Irving Fire Department. Kennedy is the commanding general of Marine Corps Recruiting Command and commanded 2nd Battalion, Fourth Marines at the time of Smith's actions. The Navy Cross is the second highest military decoration that may be awarded to a member of the United States Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, (and to members of the Coast Guard when operating under the authority of the Department of the Navy). It is awarded for extraordinary heroism. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Courtney G. White)